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Acne Scar Program in Seoul

Acne scars are rarely one type, so one device is rarely enough. Our programme identifies each scar type and its depth, then combines treatments over a planned course.

What the Acne Scar Program is

The Acne Scar Program is a structured course of treatment for atrophic (indented) acne scars. Rather than applying one device to the whole face, the doctor looks at each area, identifies the scar types present and decides which tool suits which depth. It sits within our Skin Renewal programme, in the group dedicated to pores and scars.

Why acne scars need a combined plan

Inflammatory acne can damage collagen in the dermis. As the skin heals, it may not rebuild that collagen evenly, leaving depressions on the surface. Most people have a mix of scar types:

  • Rolling scars — broad, soft-edged dips, often linked to tethering beneath the skin
  • Boxcar scars — wider depressions with sharper edges
  • Ice pick scars — narrow, deep scars that reach further down

In our 8-layer Skin Architecture model, these scars involve the upper and full-thickness dermis , with the deepest reaching lower. Each type responds differently, which is why combining approaches tends to make more sense than relying on one.

How the programme works

  • Diagnosis first. A director examines your skin, and Mark-Vu imaging records texture, pores and redness. Your starting point is saved in your Skin Library so later progress can be compared.
  • Calm active acne and the barrier. If breakouts are still active or the skin is irritated, these are addressed first — see acne treatment and barrier care .
  • Resurfacing and remodelling. Potenza RF microneedling works beneath the surface with short downtime and suits many rolling and shallow scars. CO2 laser resurfaces deeper or sharper-edged scars but needs more recovery. Many plans use both at different stages.
  • Regeneration support. Rejuran , exosomes or skin boosters may be added to support the regeneration environment.

What to expect

For acne scars, a course of typically 3–5 sessions of Potenza or CO2, about 4–6 weeks apart , is common. The spacing allows the skin to complete its renewal cycle — roughly 28 days — and gives the dermis time to remodel. Improvement is gradual and continues for weeks after each session.

Downtime depends on the tools used. Potenza usually has short downtime with temporary redness; CO2 needs a proper recovery period with redness and a rough or crusted surface for a time. Acne scars can often be improved, though they are unlikely to disappear entirely, and results vary from person to person.

Caring for your skin between sessions

  • Use SPF50+ every day — healing skin is more prone to pigmentation
  • Avoid picking or squeezing spots, which can create new marks
  • Follow the pH-5.5 prescribed home care to keep the barrier calm
  • Pause strong exfoliants unless your doctor recommends them

Is the programme right for me?

It suits people with indented scars who can commit to a course of sessions. If your main concern is flat red or brown marks left after breakouts rather than indentations, these are usually post-acne marks and are approached differently — see post-acne marks . Raised scars also need a different plan. The doctor will explain which applies to you.

For international visitors

If you visit Seoul regularly, sessions can be spread across trips, with your Skin Library record keeping the plan consistent. On a single trip, the doctor may start with one session and advise on the next steps. Send daylight photos and travel dates on WhatsApp and ask for a personalised quote.

Preparing for your first session

A little preparation helps the first session go smoothly and gives your skin the best starting point:

  • Tell us about recent treatments. Peels, lasers, injectables or acne medication taken in recent months can affect timing, so mention them on WhatsApp before you book.
  • Arrive with clean, calm skin. Avoid strong exfoliants and new products in the days before your visit.
  • Protect from the sun beforehand. Tanned or recently sunburnt skin may need to settle before resurfacing.
  • Plan your calendar. If CO2 is likely, avoid booking photo-heavy events or long flights in the days that follow. Our guide to downtime and travel can help.

Bring a list of any medicines you take. The director will review everything with you before deciding which tools to use first.

At a glance

  • Layer: Upper to full-thickness dermis
  • Main tools: Potenza, CO2 laser
  • Support: Rejuran, exosomes, skin boosters
  • Sessions: Typically 3–5, 4–6 weeks apart
  • Downtime: Short (Potenza) to longer (CO2)
  • Must-have: SPF50+ after laser

Questions about the Acne Scar Program

  • How many sessions will I need?

    A typical course is 3–5 sessions of Potenza or CO2, spaced about 4–6 weeks apart. The exact number depends on scar type, depth and how your skin responds, and results vary from person to person.

  • Can acne scars be removed completely?

    Scars can often be improved and softened, but it is unrealistic to expect them to disappear entirely. The doctor will discuss realistic goals with you at consultation.

  • Can I start if I still have breakouts?

    Active acne is usually calmed first, because inflamed skin heals less predictably and may develop new marks. The doctor may suggest acne treatment and barrier care before scar work begins.

  • Can I do the programme across several trips to Seoul?

    Yes. Many visitors spread sessions across trips. Your Skin Library record keeps the plan consistent so each session builds on the last.

Talk to us about acne scars

Message us on WhatsApp in English. Obliv Clinic Seoul Origin, Pagoda Tower, 93 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu — about 5 minutes on foot from Jonggak and Euljiro 1-ga stations, close to Myeongdong.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Suitability, number of sessions and results vary from person to person and are decided with a doctor at consultation.