Treatment guide · Skin Conditions
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Seoul
Gentle, steady treatments that fade dark marks left behind by acne and skin irritation.
Ask the clinic for: 염증 후 색소침착 (여드름 자국)
Quick answer
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is flat brown or dark marks left after acne, burns, rashes or irritation. Seoul clinics treat it with low-energy laser toning, gentle peels and prescription creams, at about ₩50,000–₩200,000 per session. Sessions take 15–30 minutes with no or little downtime. Most people need 4–10 sessions, 1–2 weeks apart, and marks usually fade over 2–6 months.
Estimated cost in Seoul
₩50,000–₩200,000
Treatment time
15–30 minutes
Downtime
None to 2 days
Results show
4–8 weeks
Results last
Permanent if not re-triggered
Sessions
4–10, every 1–2 weeks
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) explained
PIH happens when inflammation in the skin triggers extra melanin production, leaving a flat dark mark after the original problem heals. It is more common and lasts longer in medium and darker skin tones. It is different from red marks (post-inflammatory erythema) and from scars, which change skin texture.
How Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) works
Low-energy laser toning or pico toning breaks up excess pigment slowly without causing new inflammation. Gentle chemical peels speed up skin turnover, and creams with ingredients such as azelaic acid, niacinamide or prescription hydroquinone reduce melanin production. Daily sunscreen is essential, because sun exposure keeps marks dark.
Who Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is for
- Brown or dark acne marks
- Marks after bug bites, rashes or friction
- Darkening after laser or other treatments
- Medium and darker skin tones prone to PIH
- People who want a gentle, step-by-step plan
Who should avoid Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Active acne without a plan to control it, as new marks will keep forming
- Red marks only, which respond better to vascular lasers
- People unable to use daily sunscreen
- Very aggressive laser or peels, which can worsen PIH
- Pregnant people, for some prescription creams
What happens at the appointment
- Doctor checks whether marks are brown (PIH), red, or textured scars
- Plan for toning, peels and home creams
- Cleansing and gentle laser toning or peel
- Calming mask and sunscreen
- Home care instructions and next-session booking
Aftercare and flying home
- Apply SPF 50 sunscreen every morning and reapply outdoors
- Use prescribed or recommended brightening creams as directed
- Do not pick at acne or scabs
- Avoid harsh scrubs and strong at-home peels
- Treat active acne to stop new marks
Side effects and risks
- Mild redness after toning or peels
- Dryness or irritation from creams
- Temporary worsening of marks if treatment is too strong
- White spots from too frequent laser toning
- Marks can return with sun exposure or new inflammation
How much does Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) cost in Seoul?
₩50,000–₩200,000 (about US$40–150) — Costs depend on the method (toning, peels or creams) and package size. Prescription creams are usually cheap, while laser packages cost more. Prices are estimates and many clinics offer bundles.
Why get Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Korea?
Seoul clinics are experienced in treating pigment in Asian skin, which is prone to PIH. Gentle toning and peels are widely available and affordable, and clinics often combine them with acne care.
Prices are estimates gathered for Seoul clinics and change with brand, dose and promotions — confirm a quote with the clinic before booking. This page is general information, not medical advice; a doctor will assess whether a treatment suits you at consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does PIH treatment cost in Seoul?
Toning or peels for PIH usually cost about ₩50,000–₩200,000 per session in Seoul (roughly US$40–150). Packages lower the price.
Does PIH treatment hurt?
Laser toning and gentle peels usually feel like light snapping or tingling. Most people do not need numbing.
How long does it take to fade PIH?
With treatment, marks usually fade over 2–6 months, often with 4–10 sessions. Without treatment, some marks can last a year or more.
Is there downtime, and can I fly after treatment?
Most PIH treatments have little or no downtime. You can fly the same day, but use sunscreen at your destination.
Can laser make PIH worse?
Yes, strong laser settings can cause more pigment, especially in darker skin. Gentle toning and a careful doctor reduce this risk.
What is the difference between PIH and acne scars?
PIH is a flat colour change, while scars change the skin's surface. PIH can fade fully, but scars need resurfacing or other procedures.
Where to get it in Seoul
Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.
Pins show each clinic's neighbourhood or nearest station, not the exact door. Not every clinic offers every treatment — ask before you go.
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