Korean dermatology leads globally in pigmentation treatment - Picosure laser, toning protocols, custom topicals. Three main types have different treatment paths.
Type 1 - Melasma: Hormonal brown patches on cheeks/forehead, common post-pregnancy or on contraceptives. Very difficult, requires oral tranexamic acid + strict SPF + gentle lasers only.
Type 2 - PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation): Marks after acne, injury. Best response to Picosure laser + vitamin C + retinoid. 3-6 months clearance.
Type 3 - Age spots (Solar lentigo): Sun-induced dark spots, common 40+. Q-switched laser or Picosure clears in 1-2 sessions typically. Permanent if SPF maintained.
Korean protocol (Oracle, SkinCell):
- Oral: Tranexamic acid 250mg 2x daily (melasma only, prescription)
- Topical AM: Vitamin C 10-15% + SPF 50+
- Topical PM: Retinoid + hydroquinone 2-4% (prescription) for 6-12 weeks cycles
- In-clinic: Picosure 3-6 sessions at $300-350/ea, spaced 4 weeks
Cost in Seoul: $800-2,500 for 3-6 month treatment. US equivalent $2,500-6,000.