Acne Extraction in Busan: What Happens During a Korean Clinic Visit?

Why acne extraction is popular in Korea

In Korea, having clogged pores and whiteheads cleared at a clinic is a routine part of skin care for many people. Clinic extraction is done in a controlled way, with prepared skin and sterile tools, which helps reduce the damage and marks that often follow squeezing at home. For international visitors, it can be a practical way to deal with a breakout during a trip or to reset congested skin before starting other treatments.

Climate plays a part too. Busan's humid summers, sunscreen layering, and a change in routine while travelling can all lead to clogged pores, particularly on the nose, chin and forehead. Knowing what happens at a clinic visit makes it easier to decide whether extraction is right for you.

Before the extraction: consultation

A clinic visit starts with a look at your skin. The doctor will check:

Type of lesions. Blackheads and whiteheads are usually suitable for extraction. Deep, painful cysts and nodules are not, as squeezing them can worsen inflammation.
Skin condition. Very irritated, sunburnt or broken skin may need to settle first.
Medications. Isotretinoin, retinoids and some other medicines make skin more fragile, so tell the doctor about them.
Other concerns. Oiliness, marks and scars may change what else is recommended.

Consultations at Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon are available in English, Japanese and Korean. See our foreigner-friendly clinic page.

What happens during the visit, step by step

The exact steps depend on your skin, but a typical visit looks like this:

Cleansing. Makeup and surface oil are removed.
Softening the skin. A cleansing or hydrating treatment, such as Aquapeel, can help loosen debris in the pores.
Extraction. A trained staff member uses sterile tools, such as a comedone extractor or fine lancet, to gently clear mature whiteheads and blackheads.
Calming. A soothing step may be used to reduce redness.
Additional treatment if planned. Inflamed lesions may be managed separately, for example with medical care the doctor recommends.
Aftercare advice. You are given instructions for the next few days.

The visit is often quite quick. Extraction can be uncomfortable, especially on the nose and chin, but each extraction usually takes only a moment, and you can ask for a pause.

Related treatments and prices

Prices are first-visit, KRW, VAT excluded (10% VAT added at payment), checked October 2026, and apply once per new patient per item:

Aquapeel steps 1 and 2, KRW 9,900. A cleansing and hydrating treatment often used before or with extraction. See our Aqua Peel page.
Capri laser steps 1–3, KRW 89,000. A laser programme that may be considered for oily, acne-prone skin.
Pico Light Black Toning, KRW 29,000. For brown marks left after breakouts.
Potenza full face, KRW 99,000 (tip charged separately). RF microneedling for acne-prone skin, pores and scars.

Extraction and other medical acne care not on the price list are confirmed at consultation. See the full price list. Payment is made at the clinic on the day, once the plan is confirmed.

After your extraction

Expect some redness. Small red spots or slight swelling are normal for a day or so.
Keep hands off. Avoid touching or squeezing treated areas.
Use gentle products. A mild cleanser and light moisturiser. Avoid scrubs and strong acids for a few days.
Use sunscreen. Healing spots can darken in the sun.
Skip heavy makeup briefly. Light, non-comedogenic products are best, or follow the advice you are given.
Watch for infection. Increasing pain, swelling or pus is uncommon but should be reported to the clinic.

Extraction as part of a longer plan

Extraction clears what is already there, but it does not stop new clogs forming. For lasting control, the doctor may suggest a home routine, prescription treatment, or procedures that address oiliness. Regular cleansing visits can help some people stay on top of congestion. Results vary, and acne often needs ongoing care. See our acne treatment page for the wider picture.

Frequently asked questions

Does extraction leave marks?

Some redness is normal and usually fades quickly. Clinic extraction aims to reduce marks compared with squeezing at home, but some people still get temporary pigment.