Intense pulsed light · Myeongdong, Seoul

IPL photofacial in Myeongdong, Seoul

Broad-spectrum light that fades sun spots and freckles and softens redness in one treatment — a classic way to even out skin tone.

Same price as locals
English-speaking team
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Skin analysis station at Umi Clinic in Myeongdong, Seoul — **3–5 sessions** Spots darken, then flake off in 1–2 weeks

Quick answer

What is an IPL photofacial?

An IPL photofacial uses intense pulsed light, a filtered flash of many wavelengths, rather than a single-wavelength laser. Melanin in sun spots and haemoglobin in small vessels absorb the light, so brown spots darken and shed while diffuse redness gradually calms.

It suits sun-damaged or uneven skin with both brown and red tones. For deeper or stubborn pigment such as melasma, Seoul dermatologists usually prefer gentler options like laser toning.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon Jong-woo , Medical Director, Umi Clinic (Korean-licensed physician) · Updated October 2026. Results vary by person; the doctor explains risks, side effects and alternatives at consultation.

Session: 20–30 min
Numbing: Usually not needed; cooling gel
Downtime: Little; spots darken for about a week
Results: Clearer tone after 1–2 weeks
Sessions: Typically 3–5, 3–4 weeks apart
Pricing: Same price as locals

Your visit

How IPL works at Umi

Every visit is doctor-led and explained in English, from the first skin check to aftercare.

Consult & skin check
Spots and redness are assessed to rule out melasma or lesions that need another approach, and a filter is chosen.
Cooling gel & eye shields
A thin layer of chilled gel is applied and your eyes are protected.
Light pulses
The handpiece is moved across the face in gentle flashes that feel like a warm snap.
Aftercare
Leave darkened spots to flake on their own, moisturise and use SPF 50 every day.

Before & after

How IPL evens skin tone

Light is absorbed by excess pigment and small vessels, which the skin then sheds or clears over the next couple of weeks.

Illustration of the mechanism — not a patient photo. Individual results vary; real before-and-after photos can be reviewed at consultation.

Day 1

Brown spots look slightly darker, like coffee grounds.

Days 5–14

Darkened spots flake off naturally.

After 3–5 sessions

Brighter, more uniform complexion.

Is it right for you?

Who IPL suits best

Good fit if you…

Have sun spots, freckles or age spots
Have mild diffuse redness or flushing
Want to even skin tone with little downtime
Have light to medium skin without a recent tan

Consider another option if…

You have melasma, which IPL can worsen — consider laser toning
You have a fresh tan or deeper skin type
You are pregnant or use photosensitising medication
You have an active rash, infection or cold sore

Recovery & results

What to expect, step by step

Same day
Mild warmth and pinkness; spots may darken within hours.
First week
Darkened spots crust lightly and flake; make-up is fine.
2–4 weeks
Tone looks clearer; next session can be scheduled.
Maintenance
One session every 6–12 months, with strict sun protection.

FAQ

IPL questions

Is IPL the same as a laser?

No. A laser emits one wavelength, while IPL emits a broad band of light filtered for the target. That lets IPL treat brown and red tones together, but with less precision than a dedicated laser.

Can IPL treat melasma?

Usually not. IPL heat can trigger melasma to darken, so the doctor will normally recommend low-energy laser toning or topical care instead.

How soon can I go in the sun?

Avoid strong sun for at least 2 weeks and use broad-spectrum SPF 50 daily, especially while sightseeing.

How many IPL sessions will I need?

Most people see a good result after 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart; even one session can lighten several spots.

Do foreigners pay more?

No. International patients pay the same price as local patients at Umi Clinic.

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