If you're traveling to South Korea for cosmetic and skincare treatments, here’s what you need to know.
South Korea is a popular tourism destination for many reasons, including food, K-pop, shopping, beauty, and wellness. Skincare and beauty are taken so seriously in South Korea because they’re considered ancient traditions dating back to the Silla Dynasty. Home to one of the best healthcare systems in the world (it was voted 18th in the World Index of Healthcare Innovation in 2022) with cutting-edge technology and innovation, in South Korea, you’ll find cosmetic procedures and skin care treatments at a fraction of what they cost back in the United States.
From Botox injections to facials, with the low price and high level of skilled personnel, it’s a no-brainer that South Korea has morphed into a wellness tourism destination in recent years. If you’re headed to South Korea and are interested in booking a cosmetic procedure or skincare treatment, here’s what you need to know.
Do Your Research Beforehand
Do your due diligence in researching the treatments, procedures, or services you plan on booking while in South Korea. This means ensuring you read about possible side effects, pros and cons of the treatment, and any long-term effects. It’s easy to be tempted to book a last-minute treatment that promises to be accessible and affordable. During one of my consultations, a doctor recommended two services I had never heard of. As tempting as they sounded, I declined. Instead, I kept researching. When it comes to any medical procedure, cosmetic or otherwise, never make an impulse decision.
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Find Reputable Clinics or Providers
In my experience, clinics and providers follow protocol and are Korean government-certified, but it never hurts to do your research and double-check that is the case. One thing you should certainly look out for is finding a clinic with English speakers or a translator. Confirm the English speaker via your booking method or check out their social media. You want to feel well-informed and completely clear about what services you’re getting and what to expect from your procedure. If you’re at a dermatology or cosmetic surgery clinic, there should be licensed medical professionals on hand to answer any questions you have.
Shop Around Before You Commit to Any One Clinic
While in Seoul, I went to a few clinics and treatment centers that had popped up on my social media feed. I soon discovered that the popular ones tourists frequent tend to be more expensive. After exploring my other options in nearby neighborhoods, I found another clinic that was about half the price of those I’d seen on social media. If you have time, get the price list from various clinics in different neighborhoods to compare offerings before you commit to one.
INSIDER TIPDon’t forget that you’re eligible for a tax refund if you spend more than 30,000 Korean won on a treatment. Most places will offer the refund right away so make sure you bring your passport with you.
Popular Skin Treatments in Korea
One of the most popular treatments in South Korea is the aqua peel, which is similar to the HydraFacial in the States. This treatment uses a suction device that cleanses the skin by removing dead cells and gunk by hydrating and moisturizing the skin. It lasted about 45 minutes and included a modeling mask for about $27 USD.
Botox is more commonplace here than anywhere else I’ve visited. It’s also much cheaper than the US. While they don’t charge per unit, there are different prices for the various manufacturers. The Korean manufacturers are more affordable than the foreign manufacturers. I opted for a Korean brand but chose the most expensive one (also the one recommended to me).
I was recommended to get an LDM treatment during my consultation. LDM stands for Local Dynamic Micro Ultrasound and uses high-frequency sound waves to stimulate collagen and elastin in the skin. This helps to tighten the skin and prevent wrinkles and fine lines. Since this is a painless, non-invasive ultrasound procedure with no downtime, I decided to give it a go. Other popular treatments include fillers, InMode lifting, Rejuran, and laser hair removal. InMode lifting is a treatment that tightens and lifts the skin using radiofrequency, while Rejuran is an injection containing DNA fragments from salmon that help renew, restore, and hydrate the skin.
South Korea is a wonderful travel destination with an incredible food scene, rich culture, and amazing city life on its own, but do your face a favor and check out the variety of spas, skincare treatments, and cosmetic procedures while you’re visiting.