Sun Spot Removal in Seoul | The Heal Seoul

What causes sun spots

Repeated sun exposure over many years causes pigment cells to produce excess melanin in localised areas. Sun spots typically appear from the late 30s onwards and become more common with age, which is why they are also called age spots or liver spots, although they are not related to the liver.

How a dermatologist diagnoses it

A dermatologist examines spots with a dermatoscope and imaging-based skin analysis. This matters because early seborrheic keratosis, melasma and, rarely, skin cancers such as lentigo maligna can look similar. Any irregular lesion may need a biopsy before cosmetic treatment.

Treatment options at The Heal Sinsa

Common options include pico laser for pigmentation to target individual spots and IPL photofacial for broader sun damage with redness. A chemical peel may support overall tone. Availability of specific devices varies by branch – confirm at consultation. Every plan starts with a 1:1 consultation with a Korean board-certified dermatologist and imaging-based skin analysis; you will not be pushed toward treatment you do not need. Pricing is confirmed after consultation; see pricing and payment.

Sessions, downtime & side effects

Typically one to three sessions, around 4 weeks apart
Spot laser: small crusts for about 5–10 days
IPL: spots darken and flake over about a week
Risks include temporary redness, darkening (especially in darker skin) or lightening

Home care

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, including on the hands, reapply outdoors, and wear protective clothing. Products with vitamin C or niacinamide can support an even tone. Avoid tanning and do not pick at post-laser crusts.

When to see a doctor

See a dermatologist if a spot grows, becomes raised, has uneven colour or borders, bleeds or itches. Anyone with many sun spots should also have regular skin checks, since they indicate significant sun exposure.

Planning around your trip to Seoul

Allow about a week of crusting before photos or events, and pack a hat; our sunscreen after laser guide covers outdoor sightseeing. The clinic is on the 7th floor of Sinsa Square near Sinsa Station, close to Garosu-gil (getting here), and English support is available on request (international patients).

Are sun spots dangerous?

Solar lentigines themselves are harmless, but they show that skin has had significant sun exposure, which also raises skin cancer risk. A dermatologist should check any spot that looks different from the others before it is treated cosmetically.

How many sessions do sun spots need?

Many spots lighten noticeably after one session, though deeper or larger spots may need two or three, typically about four weeks apart. Your dermatologist will estimate this at consultation after examining the spots.

Will sun spots return after treatment?

Treated spots can stay lighter for a long time, but new ones can form and old ones can recur with continued sun exposure. Daily sunscreen and protective clothing are the most effective way to maintain results.

Sun Spot Removal in Seoul – Diagnosis by Board-Certified Dermatologists