Medical Acne Extraction in Gangnam, Seoul
Acne extraction is a medical procedure that removes blackheads, whiteheads and ripe pustules with sterile tools to clear congested pores and help lesions settle with less risk of damage than squeezing at home. At The Heal Dermatology Sinsa Main Branch in Gangnam, Seoul, it is planned by a board-certified dermatologist as part of a broader acne treatment plan.
Written by The Heal Dermatology medical content team · Pending review by a board-certified dermatologist · Updated October 2026
How it works
Acne extraction is a medical procedure in which a trained clinician removes blackheads, whiteheads and ripe pustules using sterile tools such as a comedone extractor or a fine needle to open the pore. Removing trapped sebum and debris under clean conditions can reduce congestion and help lesions settle faster than leaving them, while lowering the risk of damage compared with squeezing at home.
Who it's for
It is typically suited to people with comedonal acne(blackheads and whiteheads), congested pores, or milia, and as part of a broader acne plan. Deep cysts and nodules are not usually extracted and may be better treated with injections or medication. Extraction alone does not prevent new acne.
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 examines your acne type, extracts only suitable lesions, and may combine extraction with a peel, topical treatments, or other therapies. 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
- Procedure time: around 20–40 minutes depending on the number of lesions
- Preparation: skin is cleansed and may be softened beforehand
- Sessions: often repeated every 2–4 weeks during an acne plan
- Results: reduced congestion right away; skin calms over a few days
- Downtime: redness and small marks for about 1–3 days
- Aftercare: gentle skincare, avoid touching and heavy makeup for about 24 hours
Risks & who should avoid
Possible effects include temporary redness, swelling, small scabs, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly in darker skin. Improper technique can cause scarring, which is why extraction should be done by trained staff. It is generally postponed with active cold sores, open wounds, severe inflammation, or recent isotretinoin use, depending on the doctor's assessment.
Planning around your trip to Seoul
Allow a day or two for redness to fade before photos. Extraction combines well with other gentle treatments in a short visit; see skincare routine after treatment. See international patients and getting here for practical details.
Related
Frequently asked questions
Is acne extraction painful?
It can be mildly uncomfortable, with brief pressure or a pinching feeling as each lesion is cleared. Most people tolerate it well. Skin preparation and gentle technique help keep discomfort low, and you can ask for a pause at any time.
Why not squeeze pimples at home?
Squeezing with fingers can push debris deeper, spread bacteria and increase the risk of marks and scarring. Clinical extraction uses sterile tools, proper technique and appropriate lesion selection, which helps reduce damage and supports healing.
How often should I have acne extraction?
During an active acne plan, extraction is often repeated every two to four weeks. As your acne improves with treatment, sessions are usually needed less often. The dermatologist will tailor timing to your skin.
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.