In a nutshell: It’s not impossible to undergo cosmetic treatments for acne-prone skin in Myeongdong – the key lies in finding the right clinic, choosing the appropriate treatment plan, and understanding the specific type of acne one has. This article provides a detailed comparison of the acne treatment options, actual prices, and pros and cons of 5 clinics in Myeongdong, offering solutions for everything from closed comedones to deep scars left by acne.
“Can’t you get any cosmetic treatments when you have acne?” If you think so too, you might be missing out on the best skin care options available in Myeongdong.
The truth is that dermatology clinics in South Korea have long divided acne treatment into different stages: the anti-inflammatory phase, the recovery phase, the scar removal phase, and the reconstruction phase. Each stage requires specific equipment and treatment protocols. The question isn’t whether you “can undergo these treatments,” but whether you have gone to the right place for them.
It took me two days to compile information on the treatment options for acne at five dermatology clinics surrounding the Myeongdong subway station. I will list down in detail which clinic is suitable for each type of acne, approximately how much it costs, and what potential pitfalls one should avoid. Let’s take a look one by one.
First, figure out which type of acne you have.
Different types of acne require completely different equipment and treatment protocols. Before choosing a clinic, first determine which type of acne you have:
- Closed comedone type: These bumps feel distinct to the touch and are neither red nor swollen. They are suitable for basic cleansing routines and chemical peels.
- Swollen, red, and inflamed type: Large in size and bright red in color; pressing on it causes pain. Treatment requiring anti-inflammatory and sedative therapies (such as red and blue light therapy, PTT) is needed, and laser treatment is not suitable in this case.
- Pockmark type: After the acne has cleared, red or brown marks remain. IPL and Pico lasers can help reduce their appearance effectively.
- Pockmark/Depressed Scar Type: The skin surface features uneven areas. Treatments such as CO2 fractional laser and gold microneedling are required for reconstruction.
① PPEUM: Mild closed comedones + occasional acne outbreaks; boasts the highest CP value.
If you only occasionally get a few physiological pimples or some closed comedones in the T-zone, PPEUM is more than enough – it’s affordable, there’s no need to wait, and it’s open even on Sundays. As a chain of dermatology clinics in Myeongdong, it operates on a “come in, get treated, leave” model. It’s not some luxury experience, but the cost-performance ratio is definitely high.
| project | price | Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Golden PTT (anti-inflammatory + oil control) | ₩159,000 | Reducing inflammation in red and swollen pimples |
| POTENZA Gold Micro-Needling (1 mode) | ₩59,000 | Acne scars/Pores |
| Basic cleansing and maintenance | Starting from ¥500,000 | Prevention of closed comedones |
affordable prices, the fact that there’s no need to book in advance for a long time, its operation on Sundays, and its high cost-performance ratio.
process seems somewhat standardized and lacks personalized customization for those with acne-prone skin, and the consultation time is relatively short.
② DayBeau: Emergency treatment for acne outbreaks + premium skincare – all in one affordable package!
When it comes to acne management in Myeongdong, the DayBeau The Premium branch is a really interesting option. Although it isn’t a clinic specialized solely in treating acne, its approach—without any aggressive sales tactics, a comfortable environment, and transparent package options—makes it an ideal choice for those who are worried about being overcharged or deceived.
There was one detail that left a deep impression on me. A customer on Creatrip shared that after suddenly developing many pimples, they decided to seek some soothing treatment. Instead of promoting expensive packages, the consultant helped them plan a treatment plan that suited their budget best. Such a non-pushy approach is really rare in dermatology clinics.
Acne-related treatments:
- Uniform price package for multiple treatments: ¥490,000 (Options include hyaluronic acid injections, whitening lasers, skin management treatments, etc.)
- Private VIP International private rooms offer a high level of privacy.
- Suitable for those who need to address multiple skin issues simultaneously (acne + dullness + dryness)
ad being approached with sales pitches, want to address multiple skin issues at once, and prioritize a positive overall experience.
hose with limited budgets (a fixed price of ¥4.9 million may be a bit expensive for those who only have minor acne issues) or those who simply want to get rid of their acne quickly.
③ LIJIN: For those who suffer from recurring acne and have tried many methods without success, this is the right place for you.
LIJIN is completely different from the previous two clinics. Its director has over 15 years of experience; previously, he served as the representative director of PPEUM’s parent company, Abijou. Now, he has opened his own clinic, focusing on one-on-one consultations, exclusive private treatment rooms, and personal supervision by the director throughout the entire treatment process.
What does that mean? It means that whenever you come here, you won’t be assigned to a therapist who happens to be available. From the moment you enter the treatment room until you leave, it will always be the same director who takes care of you.
This is of particular value to those who have long been plagued by acne. After all, recurring acne is usually not caused by a single factor—it could be due to hormonal imbalances, bacterial infections, or damaged skin barriers. The common approach of chain clinics is to “treat you as soon as you arrive and send you away after the treatment is complete,” but LIJIN takes the time to diagnose the root cause of your acne before developing a customized treatment plan for you.
- Potenza Gold Micro-Needling Treatment (Combined Treatment for Acne and Acne Scars): Starting from ¥929,000
- Customized laser treatments (various wavelengths selected based on the specific condition of the acne): ¥920,000 – ¥950,000
- Chinese-speaking services, transparent pricing, and private spaces.
frequently suffer from acne without knowing the cause, need professional diagnosis, value privacy, and prefer one-on-one services.
ntments are already fully booked (reservation required 1-2 weeks in advance) or those who simply want the procedure to be completed quickly – in just fifteen minutes.
④ DAN-A: If your acne has been brought under control, the main issues you face are likely acne scars and marks.
DAN-A’s arsenal is the most comprehensive in Myeongdong – ranging from basic red and blue glow technologies to advanced CO2 fractional laser systems. If PPEUM represents “rapid treatment” and LIJIN stands for “precise diagnosis”, then DAN-A is undoubtedly the embodiment of “superior equipment”.
I simply compiled the prices of laser treatments related to DAN-A’s acne problems into a table, so you can compare them all at once:
| project | price | Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Red and blue light therapy | ₩80,000 | Reducing inflammation in active acne spots |
| IPL photorejuvenation | ₩180,000 | Acne scars + uneven skin tone |
| Pico laser (for removing freckles/pockmark scars) | ₩250,000 | Deep acne scars and sunspots |
| CO2 Fractional Laser (for acne scars/Pores) | ₩300,000 | Sunken acne scars and enlarged Pores |
ready controlled their acne and mainly want to reduce the appearance of scars and marks left by acne, as well as for those who need a variety of laser treatments available.
tly attend gatherings, those who have Thursday off as a day off, or those who require in-depth one-on-one consultations.
⑤ REBERRY: If you yourself aren’t sure what’s wrong with your skin, let AI help you diagnose it.
REBERRY boasts something that no other clinic possesses: the LifeViz AI 3D Skin Analysis System. Before your consultation, an AI scan of your face is performed to assess pigmentation, Pore condition, texture, and any underlying issues—all of these factors are quantified into data, which the director uses to make an accurate diagnosis.
Do you know what is most frustrating for people who have been suffering from acne for a long time? It’s not the pain itself, but rather the fact of “not being able to figure out exactly what the problem is”. REBERRY uses AI to transform this process into visible data, and during each follow-up visit, AI is used to compare the changes before and after, so that you can see for yourself whether you are indeed getting better.
The official website clearly states that the treatment scope includes “acne and pigmentation issues,” and it also emphasizes that “the dean personally conducts consultations and performs treatments, rejecting a mass-production approach.” Different from LIJIN, REBERRY adds a touch of technology to its services—instead of relying on experience, it uses data-driven methods.
- LifeViz 3D AI Skin Analysis + Consultation with a Dermatologist
- Customized combined treatment plan (skin rejuvenation + laser therapy + injection therapy): ¥915,000 – ¥950,000
- Open 24/7 with Chinese-language services available.
People with severe acne-prone skin who need long-term management, those who want to track their progress through data, and those who value scientific diagnosis.
those who are on a tight budget, need to make reservations in advance, or simply want to get the procedure done quickly.
Comparative Summary of Acne Treatment at 5 Clinics
| clinic | Specializing in Acne Treatment | Representative Projects | price range | Most suitable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPEUM | Basic cleansing and emergency treatment for acne with needle therapy | Golden PTTPOTENZA |
Between 950,000 and 9.16 million | Mild mouth closure / occasional acne outbreaks |
| DayBeau | Emergency treatment for acne outbreaks and precise skincare management | Calming Management Package with Hyalur onic Acid Injection |
₩490,000 package | Want to solve multiple issues at once |
| LIJIN | Customized diagnosis + treatment | Potenza Gold Micro-needle Laser Custo mized Treatment Plan |
Between 9.2 million and 9.5 million | Frequent acne outbreaks – require a diagnosis. |
| DAN-A | The most comprehensive laser treatment for acne scars and marks | Pico, CO2 fractional re d and blue glow, IPL |
80,000 to 9.3 million yen | Visible scars or pitted marks left by acne |
| REBERRY | AI detection + combined treatment | LifeViz 3D Analysis Customized Joint Solution |
Between 915,000 and 9.5 million | Severe acne-prone skin / Long-term management |
In these 4 scenarios, you can easily identify which one applies to you.
Scenario 1: Limited budget and occasional acne outb
reaks → Just go to PPEUM. Basic treatments start from 950,000 won, and you don’t have to wait long. The best value for money.
Scenario 2: Frequent acne outbreaks despite trying many different p
roducts – Go to LIJIN and let the director conduct a thorough diagnosis. Your problem may lie beyond those superficial pimples.
Scenario 3: Acne has been controlled, but many scars remain → Go to DAN-A.
They offer a range of treatments from IPL to CO2 fractional laser, allowing you to choose the exact treatment that suits you best.
Scenario 4: Severe acne that requires long-term management and data tracking → Visit REBE
RRY; their AI 3D detection technology will help you establish a baseline for your skin condition, allowing for data comparison at each follow-up visit.
Before you go, make sure you’re aware of these three common pitfalls.
⚠️ Mistake 1: Thinking that just one laser treatment can completely cure acne.
Laser treatment is used for dealing with acne scars and marks, not for treating inflamed pimples. If you are still in the stage of redness, swelling, and frequent breakouts, it is recommended to undergo anti-inflammatory treatments first (such as red and blue light therapy or PTT), and then proceed with laser treatment once your condition has stabilized.
→ How to avoid it: When consulting, clearly inform the doctor about which stage your acne is currently in; do not directly request “laser treatment.”
⚠️ Warning: Once you fall for this sales tactic, you might end up buying the package 10 times.
Some clinics offer a package deal that offers a 20% discount for 10 treatments during the first consultation. However, the effectiveness of acne treatment varies from person to person, and it’s possible that after just 3 treatments, further treatments may no longer be necessary.
→ How to avoid this: Stick to buying the service 1-3 times first, and then decide based on the results. A good clinic won’t change its attitude just because you don’t opt for a package deal.
⚠️ Mistake #3: Failing to protect the skin properly after surgery only makes things worse.
After undergoing laser treatment or exfoliation, the skin is in a recovery phase, and ultraviolet rays can exacerbate the formation of pigmentation. If you go out and stroll around Myeongdong without applying sunscreen, all that effort will be in vain.
→ How to avoid it: Strictly avoid sun exposure for at least one week after the procedure (wear a hat, mask, and apply sunscreen), and try to schedule the treatment in the afternoon or evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I undergo cosmetic treatments when my pimples are inflamed?
Sure, but you need to choose the right treatment course. During the inflamed phase, red and blue glow therapy is suitable for reducing inflammation, while PTT treatment can help with soothing the skin; however, laser treatments and resurfacing procedures are not appropriate at this time. Be sure to inform the doctor that your pimples are currently inflamed during the consultation.
Q2: How long does it take to complete a treatment for acne?
The basic cleaning procedure takes approximately 30 minutes, the red and blue light treatment lasts around 20 minutes, while the Potenza/laser treatment requires 40 to 60 minutes. Including the consultation and pre-operative preparations, it is safer to schedule 1 to 1.5 hours in total.
Q3: How many treatments are needed to see results?
Anti-inflammatory treatment (red and blue light/PTT): Redness and swelling can usually be reduced after 1-2
sessions. Laser scar removal: Typically requires 3-5 treatments, spaced 3-4 weeks
apart. Acne scar repair (CO2/gold microneedling): More than 3 treatments are needed, with each session spaced 1-2 months apart.
Q4: Which clinic in Myeongdong offers the cheapest acne treatment services?
The basic cleaning service offered by PPEUM starts from 950,000 yuan, making it the cheapest among the five options. However, if you have severe acne problems, cheaper solutions may not be sufficient. In such cases, DAN-A’s red and blue light therapy (980,000 yuan) or LIJIN’s customized treatment plans would be more practical choices.
Q5: Can I still get treatment for acne if I don’t speak Korean?
Among Wujiali’s LIJIN, DAN-A, and REBERRY, all offer Chinese-language services. For PPEUM and DayBeau, it is recommended to use the Papago translation app as an aid. Please refer to our guide on how to communicate in situations where Korean is not available.
Q6: Can I wear makeup after the procedure?
After basic cleansing, you can apply light makeup. It is recommended not to wear makeup within 24 hours after laser treatments or exfoliation, to give your skin enough time to heal.
My conclusion
When it comes to seeking medical beauty treatments for acne-prone skin in Myeongdong, the key isn’t “which clinic offers the lowest price” or “which one has the most advanced equipment”, but rather understanding exactly which stage your acne is currently in and then choosing a clinic that specializes in treating that particular condition.
If you don’t feel like going through all that, here’s my simplified version of the advice:
- For those who experience occasional mild acne and prioritize budget savings → PPEUM
- Frequent acne outbreaks over a long period require professional diagnosis → LIJIN
- The main goal is to reduce the appearance of acne marks and scars → DAN-A
- Severe acne-prone skin requires systematic management → REBERRY
- Afraid of being pressured into buying something, looking for a comfortable and enjoyable experience → DayBeau
📅 Are you ready to go to Myeongdong to take care of those pimples?
If you already have a general idea of which clinic is suitable for you, the next step is to confirm the available schedule and make an appointment. It is recommended to search directly through BeautsGO, as this will allow you to see the available times and latest prices of multiple clinics at once 👇
For further reading
- How to choose among the hyaluronic acid injection services in Myeongdong? Price comparison of 5 clinics
- A comprehensive analysis of the prices at DayBeau Dermatology in Myeongdong
- How can you communicate with dermatologists in Myeongdong if you don’t speak Korean? 5 practical tips tested and verified.
- Price List of DAN-A Dermatology in Myeongdong – Complete Treatment Packages + Real Reviews
- A Beginner’s Guide to Dermatology Treatments in Myeongdong: Your First Time Getting Medical Beauty Procedures in Korea