Not all scars respond to the same treatment. Post-inflammatory red marks (PIE), dark spots (PIH), ice pick or boxcar atrophic scars, and hypertrophic surgical scars each require a specific approach. At Rappoel Dermatology in Gangnam, Seoul, we assess each patient’s scar type and build a targeted laser protocol rather than defaulting to a single device. Our scar improvement programs are trusted by patients from Taiwan, mainland China, and Southeast Asia who seek Gangnam-quality dermatology care.
Common Scar Types
- Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE): Flat pink/red marks after acne, vascular in origin
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark brown/black discoloration, melanin-based
- Atrophic scars: Ice pick, boxcar, and rolling types — dermal collagen loss
- Hypertrophic scars: Raised scars from excess collagen post-surgery or trauma
- Keloids: Excessive collagen beyond the wound boundary — requires special management
Rappoel’s Laser Scar Treatments
- Fractional CO₂ laser: Most powerful for atrophic scars; stimulates deep collagen remodeling; 7–14 day downtime
- Pulsed dye laser (PDL/VBeam): Targets vascular PIE with minimal downtime
- Picosecond laser: Ideal for PIH and pigmented scars; high pigment fragmentation efficiency
- Non-ablative fractional laser (Fraxel-type): Suitable for darker skin tones or shorter downtime needs
- Intralesional injection + laser: Corticosteroid injection combined with laser for hypertrophic scars
Important Pre-Treatment Notes
- Inform the physician of current medications — especially retinoids (pause 2–4 weeks before)
- Strict post-CO₂ sun protection and moisturizing protocol required
- Most patients need 3–6 sessions for optimal improvement
- Winter is ideal for laser scar treatment (less UV exposure, faster healing)
Treatment Details
- Clinic: Rappoel Dermatology, 5F, 24 Seocho-daero 77-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul (3 min from Gangnam Station Exit 10)
- Consultation tip: Bring scar photos for pre-assessment
- Session duration: 30–60 minutes depending on treatment type
- Downtime: 2–3 days (mild) to 10–14 days (fractional CO₂)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can atrophic acne scars completely disappear?
Significant improvement is achievable — typically 50–80% reduction with fractional CO₂ — but complete elimination of severe scars is unlikely in a single course. Multiple sessions produce cumulative improvement. Rappoel sets realistic goals based on scar severity assessment.
How much downtime should I plan for?
Pulsed dye and picosecond lasers: 2–3 days. Fractional CO₂: 7–14 days (redness, peeling). Traveling patients often schedule CO₂ on the last 1–2 days before flying home, or choose short-downtime options to maintain a normal itinerary.
Do red scars and dark scars need different lasers?
Yes. Red (vascular) PIE responds best to pulsed dye laser; dark (pigmented) PIH responds to picosecond or Q-switched laser. Rappoel identifies the scar type at the initial consultation and prescribes accordingly.
How many sessions before I see improvement?
Mild pigmented scars often show notable improvement in 2–3 sessions; moderate to severe atrophic scars typically require 3–6 sessions, 4–8 weeks apart.
Why come to Seoul for laser scar treatment?
Gangnam dermatology clinics have high case volume, rapid device adoption, and experienced physicians who have treated thousands of scar cases. Some laser systems available in Seoul are not yet widely available in Taiwan. Rappoel provides comprehensive scar assessment and multi-session planning.
Book a Laser Scar Treatment Consultation
📍 77, Seocho-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
🕐 Mon–Fri 10:00–19:00 · Sat 10:00–17:00
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