Aqua Peel Facial in Gangnam, Seoul
Aqua peel is a gentle, non-invasive facial that uses a device to exfoliate, suction impurities from pores and infuse hydrating serums, leaving skin fresher with no downtime. At The Heal Dermatology Sinsa Main Branch in Gangnam, Seoul, a board-certified dermatologist reviews your skin first so it can be combined with medical treatments where suitable.
Written by The Heal Dermatology medical content team · Pending review by a board-certified dermatologist · Updated October 2026
How it works
Aqua peel is a non-invasive facial treatment that combines gentle exfoliation, vacuum suction and serum infusion using a handheld device. Cleansing solutions loosen dead skin cells and debris while suction draws impurities out of pores; hydrating serums are then applied. It is a type of hydradermabrasion and is often used as a stand-alone refresh or as preparation before lasers or other treatments.
Who it's for
It is typically suited to adults with congested pores, blackheads, dull skin, mild oiliness, or enlarged-looking pores who want a gentle clean with no downtime. It is a maintenance treatment and will not treat deep scars, significant pigmentation or active inflamed acne on its own.
What to expect at The Heal Sinsa
At The Heal Dermatology Sinsa Main Branch, near Sinsa Station and Garosu-gil in Gangnam, your consultation and treatment are carried out 1:1 by a Korean board-certified dermatologist. The dermatologist reviews your skin first, so an aqua peel can be combined with medical treatments where appropriate. Availability of specific devices and products varies by branch – confirm at consultation. We aim for honest recommendations without overselling, use genuine full-dose products, and treat in private single rooms. English and Traditional Chinese support is available on request. Pricing is confirmed after consultation; see pricing and payment.
Sessions & downtime
- Sessions: single sessions or regular maintenance every 2–4 weeks
- Procedure time: around 20–40 minutes
- Sensation: cool, gentle suction; usually comfortable
- Results: skin often looks fresher and smoother right after treatment
- Downtime: usually none; mild redness may last an hour or two
- Aftercare: moisturise, use sunscreen, and avoid harsh exfoliants for a day or two
Risks & who should avoid
Side effects are usually minimal and may include temporary redness, sensitivity, or minor irritation. Very sensitive skin may react to solutions. It is generally postponed with active inflamed acne, open wounds, active cold sores, sunburn, or flare-ups of eczema or rosacea in the area, and after recent isotretinoin use, unless the doctor advises otherwise.
Planning around your trip to Seoul
With no real downtime, an aqua peel fits easily into any day of a trip and can freshen skin before events. It also pairs well with other treatments; see combining treatments in one trip. See international patients and getting here for practical details.
Related
Frequently asked questions
Is aqua peel the same as a chemical peel?
No. An aqua peel uses gentle solutions, suction and serums to cleanse pores and hydrate, with little to no peeling. A chemical peel applies an acid to exfoliate skin more deeply and can cause flaking. They suit different goals.
How often can I have an aqua peel?
Many people have aqua peels every two to four weeks as maintenance, or before events. Because it is gentle, it can be repeated regularly, but the dermatologist may suggest adjusting frequency for sensitive or reactive skin.
Can aqua peel treat acne?
It can help clear congested pores and blackheads, but it is not a treatment for inflamed or cystic acne on its own. Active acne usually needs medical treatment such as topical or oral medication, extraction, or injections, which the dermatologist can advise on.
Treated by Korean board-certified dermatologists
At The Heal Dermatology, every consultation and procedure is performed or directly supervised by a dermatology specialist (피부과 전문의). Why board certification matters · Meet our doctors · International patient guide · All treatments
Branches: Sinsa (Main) · Jamsil · Dongdaemun · Mapo-Gongdeok
This page is general medical information and does not replace an in-person consultation. Suitability, number of sessions and results vary by individual.