Melasma · Myeongdong, Seoul
Melasma Myeongdong Seoul: calm the pigment, keep it under control.
Melasma is a chronic, hormone- and sun-driven pigmentation that needs gentle, repeated care rather than aggressive lasers. Your plan is set by a doctor at RE:BERRY Myeongdong, two minutes from Myeongdong Station Exit 8.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Seung-Jae Baek, Chief Medical Director (licence No. 143338) · Updated 8 October 2026
Quick answer · What is Melasma?
Melasma is a chronic pigmentation condition that causes symmetrical brown patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. It is driven by sun and visible light, hormones and genetics, and worsens with heat or irritation. At RE:BERRY Clinic it is managed with low-energy laser toning every 1–2 weeks, often with brightening care and sun protection. Sessions take about 20–30 minutes with no downtime. It can fade significantly but may return, so maintenance is needed.
- Typical plan
- Toning every 1–2 weeks
- Session
- 20–30 min
- Downtime
- None to mild redness
- Results
- Gradual over 5–10 sessions
How it works
Why melasma needs a gentle approach
In melasma, overactive pigment cells produce excess melanin, and the skin barrier and small blood vessels are often involved too. Strong heat or aggressive lasers can trigger rebound darkening, so low-energy toning is used to break up pigment gradually without inflaming the skin. Where suitable, a doctor may also advise prescription creams or oral medication alongside clinic treatment.
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Diagnosis
Your doctor examines the pattern and depth of pigment and rules out sun spots or post-inflammatory marks that need different care.
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Gentle toning
Low-energy laser toning passes cover the patches, sometimes combined with Genesis toning or brightening care for redness and glow.
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Maintenance
Patches fade gradually across the course; strict sunscreen and occasional maintenance help keep melasma under control.
Before & after
Softer, lighter patches over a course
Most patients notice patches becoming lighter and less defined after several sessions. Melasma is controlled rather than cured, so it can return with sun, heat or hormonal change.
Photos published with patient consent. Results vary between individuals and are not a guarantee of outcome.
A good fit if you…
- Have symmetrical brown patches on the cheeks or forehead
- Noticed pigment after pregnancy or hormonal change
- Want gradual improvement with no downtime
- Are ready to use daily sunscreen and attend repeat sessions
Talk to your doctor first if you…
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Take isotretinoin or photosensitising medication
- Have recently tanned, sunburnt or irritated skin
- Had rebound darkening after previous laser treatment
Compare options
Treatment options for melasma compared
| Treatment | How it works | Session | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Toning | Low-fluence 1064 nm laser toning | 15–20 min | None |
| Genesis Toning | Non-ablative 1064 nm Nd:YAG warming | 15–30 min | Mild redness, hours |
| Hyperpigmentation Treatment | Toning, IPL and brightening care | 30–45 min | None to minimal |
| Skin Brightening Treatment | Laser toning plus hydrating boosters | 30–45 min | None |
| PDRN Injection | PDRN regenerative injections | 30–45 min | Mild redness for hours |
Many patients combine treatments in one visit. Your doctor recommends a plan after examining your skin. See all skin concerns.
Your visit
From first message to flight home
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Message us
Send your concern and travel dates on WhatsApp (+82-10-5719-2084), LINE or WeChat. A coordinator replies in English, Chinese, Japanese or Spanish.
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Free doctor consultation
Skin analysis and photos, then a doctor confirms whether Melasma treatment suits you. You get the plan and price in writing first.
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Same-day treatment
A melasma toning session takes about 20–30 minutes in a private room, and you can go straight back out with sunscreen on. Written aftercare in your language, plus WhatsApp follow-up once you are home.
Who reviewed this page
Dr. Seung-Jae Baek
Chief Medical Director · Korean medical licence No. 143338
JUVELOOK Meister & Speaker and Revinas Key Opinion Leader. Member of the Aesthetic Surgery & Laser Society (ASLS Korea), the Korean Academy of Obesity & Aesthetic Treatment (KOAT) and the Korea Filler Education and Research Academy. RE:BERRY Myeongdong is a KHIDI-registered foreign patient medical institution (Reg. No. M-2025-01-08-8519).
FAQ
Melasma questions we hear every day
Can melasma be cured permanently?
No treatment cures melasma permanently. It is a chronic condition that can be lightened and kept under control with gentle treatment, sun protection and maintenance, but it may return with sun, heat or hormones.
Which treatment is best for melasma?
Low-energy laser toning is the most common clinic approach, often combined with brightening care. Some patients also benefit from prescription treatment, which your doctor discusses at consultation.
How many sessions does melasma need?
Most patients need a course of 5 to 10 sessions spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart, then maintenance every few weeks or months depending on how the skin responds.
Is there downtime after melasma treatment?
Usually none. Mild pinkness may last a few hours, and you can wear makeup the same day.
Can I go sightseeing after melasma treatment?
Yes, but sun exposure is the main trigger for melasma. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, reapply often and use a hat or shade when outdoors in Seoul.
How much does melasma treatment cost in Myeongdong?
Pricing depends on the treatments combined, the area treated and the number of sessions. The same price list applies to every nationality and you receive it in writing before treatment. See our pico, toning and acne price list.
Related treatments & guides
Thinking about melasma treatment? Ask a doctor first.
58, Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul · 2 min from Myeongdong Station Exit 8 · Open daily, weekdays 10:30–20:00, weekends 10:30–19:00.
General information, not medical advice. Suitability for any treatment is decided at consultation.
