Skin Concerns · Doje Clinic, Sinsa-dong
Melasma Treatment in Cheongdam, Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul Gentle, Gradual Care for Hormonal Pigment
Melasma Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul at Doje Clinic uses gentle, low-energy methods – laser toning, pico toning and Reepot – combined with doctor-guided skin care, because aggressive lasers can make melasma worse. Sessions take about 15–30 minutes with little downtime, and lightening appears gradually over a course of sessions. Consult in English on WhatsApp.
Quick answer
What Causes Melasma?
Melasma is a chronic pigment condition that appears as symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip or jaw. It is driven by hormones, UV and visible light, and genetic tendency, and is most common in women.
Pregnancy, oral contraceptives and heat can trigger or worsen melasma. Research also suggests that small blood vessels under the patches play a part, which is why vascular lasers such as Reepot may be included in a plan.
Melasma can be controlled and lightened but tends to recur, so treatment is ongoing rather than a single cure. A dermatologist-level diagnosis is important to separate melasma from sun spots or other pigmentation, as strong spot lasers can cause rebound darkening.
- Concern
- Symmetrical hormonal patches on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip
- Assessed by
- Licensed physicians at Doje Clinic
- Main options
- Low-fluence laser toning, pico toning, Reepot, Genesis laser
- Session time
- About 15–30 minutes
- Downtime
- Usually none to mild redness for a few hours
- Sessions
- Often 5–10, about 1–2 weeks apart, then maintenance
- Note
- Melasma tends to recur; sun and heat control are essential
- Price
- ,000;,000 – see prices
Treatment options
Melasma Treatment Options
Low, steady energy is the principle. Your doctor may combine two of these.
Laser Toning
Low-fluence Nd:YAG passes that may gradually break up pigment without irritating the skin.
Learn more → PicosecondPico Toning
Ultra-short pulses that may lighten patches with very little heat.
Learn more → Vascular componentPigmentation Laser (Reepot)
Reepot targets the small vessels linked to melasma while cooling the skin.
Learn more → CalmingGenesis Laser
Gentle warming that may help redness-prone melasma skin.
Learn more →Compare
Melasma vs Sun Spots vs Freckles
These are often confused, but they are treated very differently.
| Feature | Melasma | Sun spots | Freckles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Blurred, symmetrical patches | Defined, round brown spots | Small, scattered light-brown dots |
| Main trigger | Hormones, UV, heat | Years of UV exposure | Genetics and sun |
| Typical approach | Gentle toning over many sessions | Spot laser in 1–2 sessions | Pico or Q-switched spot laser |
| Recurrence | Common | New spots may form | May darken again in summer |
Is it right for you?
Who Is Melasma Treatment Right For?
Adults with confirmed melasma who can commit to regular sessions and strict daily sun protection.
Laser treatment is generally postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding, when melasma often changes by itself. It is also delayed with a fresh tan, active skin infection or irritation from strong topical products. Tell the doctor about any hormonal medication.
- Brown or grey-brown patches on both cheeks
- Pigment on the forehead or upper lip that darkens in summer
- Melasma that appeared during or after pregnancy
- Patches that worsened after a strong laser elsewhere
- Wanting a gentle, low-downtime approach
Your visit
How a Melasma Plan Works at Doje
Share Your History
Send photos and details of pregnancy, hormones and past treatments on WhatsApp.
Doctor Diagnosis
The doctor confirms melasma, checks for mixed pigment and sets a conservative energy plan.
Toning Session
A 15–30 minute low-energy laser session in a private room, with soothing care after.
Ongoing Plan
Sessions repeat every 1–2 weeks while in Seoul; home care and WhatsApp follow-up continue after.
Results timeline
Melasma Treatment Course
Melasma is managed patiently. Expect steady lightening, not overnight change.
Skin tone may look brighter; patches change little at first.
Patches usually begin to lighten and soften at the edges.
Further lightening; the doctor reviews progress and adjusts.
Periodic toning and daily sun care help keep melasma under control.
Pricing
How Much Does Melasma Cost in Gangnam Seoul?
At Doje Clinic, the cost of Melasma depends on the areas treated and the bespoke plan designed at your 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Je-ik, so prices are confirmed after the doctor's assessment. Message us on WhatsApp for an initial guide.
Prices are confirmed after a doctor's consultation at Doje Clinic. See our treatment guide →
Why Doje Clinic
Why Choose Doje Clinic for Melasma in Seoul?
1:1 Private Care
An in-depth one-to-one consultation with the Representative Director before any treatment is planned.
Doctor-Performed
Every treatment is planned and performed by Dr. Byun Je-ik, a Seoul National University–trained surgeon.
Filler & Lifting Specialist
Named one of Korea's 22 filler experts by Medical Times; Merz advisory board and Belotero Expert committee member.
Award-Winning
Merz Golden Record Award winner – 2024 Ultherapy Transducers and 2023 Belotero.
Natural Results
Bespoke plans built around your features and aging pattern, so results look refined, never overdone.
Foreigner-Friendly
Book in English on WhatsApp or LINE, or reach us on KakaoTalk and Instagram DM.
Your doctor
Your Doctor at Doje Clinic
Treatments are planned and performed by Representative Director Dr. Byun Je-ik – a Seoul National University–trained surgeon, Merz advisory board member, Belotero Expert committee member and Merz Golden Record Award winner (2024, 2023).
Daily care
Daily Care for Melasma
Home care is half of melasma treatment. Your doctor will personalise these steps.
Tinted Sunscreen
Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily; tinted formulas with iron oxides also block visible light.
Avoid Heat
Saunas, hot yoga and long hot showers can darken melasma.
Gentle Skin Care
Skip scrubs and strong peels that irritate the skin.
Prescribed Topicals
Brightening creams or tranexamic acid may be advised; use only as directed by a doctor.
Shade When Sightseeing
Wear a hat and seek shade during midday in Seoul.
Be Patient
Keep up maintenance even when patches fade, as melasma tends to return.
Location & hours
Find Us in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam
Doje Clinic Seoul
2F Dolce Vita Building, 18-6 Dosan-daero 45-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Suin-Bundang Line), Exit 5 · about 6 minutes on foot · 2 hours free parking
Phone: 02-6380-2110 · WhatsApp (English): +82 10-6535-2110
| Monday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Tuesday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Friday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Sunday & public holidays | Closed |
| Weekday lunch break | 13:00 – 14:00 |
FAQ
Melasma in Seoul – Frequently Asked Questions
How much is melasma treatment in Gangnam, Seoul?
At Doje Clinic, the cost of Melasma depends on the areas treated and the bespoke plan designed at your 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Je-ik, so prices are confirmed after the doctor's assessment. Message us on WhatsApp for an initial guide.
Can melasma be cured permanently?
Melasma cannot usually be cured permanently because hormones and sunlight keep triggering it. It can be lightened and controlled with gentle laser care, topical treatment and strict sun protection.
Why do aggressive lasers make melasma worse?
Melasma-prone pigment cells react to heat and inflammation. Strong lasers can trigger rebound darkening, so melasma is treated with low-energy toning and careful settings.
How many melasma sessions will I need?
Most melasma plans involve five to ten sessions about one to two weeks apart, followed by maintenance. The number depends on depth and how the skin responds.
Can I start melasma treatment on a trip to Seoul?
Yes. Toning has almost no downtime, so visitors can have several sessions during a longer stay in Seoul and continue home care with WhatsApp follow-up.
Can I have melasma treatment while pregnant?
Melasma laser treatment is usually postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Gentle skin care and sun protection are recommended until then.
Do the doctors speak English?
Yes. English consultations are available at Doje Clinic, with LINE & KakaoTalk booking. Book on WhatsApp at +82 10-6535-2110.
Related treatments
Medically reviewed by the physicians of Doje Clinic (Representative Director: Dr. Byun Je-ik). Prices are listed event prices in KRW and are confirmed after a doctor's consultation. Individual results may vary. Last updated: October 2026.
