Acne Scar Removal in Busan: Comparing Laser and Microneedling Options

Why acne scars need a tailored plan

Acne scars are not one condition. Some are sharp, narrow pits. Others are wide depressions with sloping edges, and many people also have flat red or brown marks that are not true scars at all. Each type sits at a different depth and responds to different tools. This is why clinics in Korea rarely offer a single "scar package" and instead combine treatments after examining the skin.

The two main families of options are lasers and microneedling, often with radiofrequency (RF) energy added. Both work by creating controlled micro-injuries that prompt the skin to remodel and produce new collagen over the following months. They differ in how they deliver that injury, how deep they reach, and what recovery looks like.

Laser options for acne scars

Lasers used for scarring are usually fractional. Fractional means the beam treats a grid of tiny columns while leaving the skin between them untouched, which helps healing. Broadly, they come in two types:

Non-ablative fractional lasers. These heat columns of tissue without removing the surface. Downtime is usually a few days of redness and fine roughness. They are often used for shallow scars and texture.
Ablative fractional lasers. These vaporise tiny columns of skin. They can be stronger per session but come with more downtime and a higher risk of pigment change, especially in skin that darkens easily.
Pico-based fractional treatments. Devices sometimes marketed as "Pico Fraxel" use very short pulses with a special lens to create micro-injuries beneath the surface. Patients can ask during consultation which options are available.

At Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon, the fractional laser on the price list is U-Pulse Fraxel at KRW 25,000. For red or brown marks left after acne, toning such as Pico Light Black Toning (KRW 29,000) may also be part of a plan.

Microneedling and RF microneedling

Microneedling uses fine needles to create tiny channels in the skin. RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy delivered through the needle tips, heating the deeper layers where scar tissue sits. Potenza is one well-known RF microneedling device and is available at our clinic.

Depth control. Needle depth can be adjusted area by area, which is useful when scars on the cheeks are deeper than those on the temples.
Surface sparing. Because most of the energy is delivered below the surface, RF microneedling is often considered for skin types that are prone to pigment change.
Combined benefits. RF microneedling is also used for enlarged pores and active oiliness, so it can address several concerns at once.

Potenza full face is KRW 99,000, with the tip charged separately. You can read more on our Potenza page.

Comparing the two approaches

Neither approach is better in general. The doctor considers the following:

Scar type. Rolling and boxcar scars often respond to treatments that remodel deeper tissue. Ice pick scars may need targeted methods in addition to resurfacing.
Skin type and pigment risk. If your skin tends to darken after inflammation, the doctor may choose gentler settings or favour RF microneedling.
Downtime. Both usually cause redness for a few days. Stronger settings mean longer recovery.
Active acne. If you still have active breakouts, those are usually brought under control first. See our acne treatment page.
Number of sessions. Scar remodelling is gradual. Most people need a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart, and improvement continues for months after each one.

Prices and booking in Busan

All prices above are first-visit prices in KRW, VAT excluded (10% VAT is added at payment), checked October 2026, and apply once per new patient per item. See the full price list. Fillers or collagen boosters, which some plans add for deep depressed scars, are quoted after an in-person consultation because the amount of product varies. Payment is made at the clinic on the day, after the consultation confirms the plan.

Side effects of both laser and microneedling can include redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, temporary darkening and, rarely, infection or scarring. Results vary and are not guaranteed. The doctor will tell you honestly what improvement is realistic for your scars.

Frequently asked questions

Can I combine laser and microneedling?

Yes, many scar plans combine methods, either in the same course or alternating sessions. The doctor decides the order and spacing based on your skin and how it heals.

How soon will I see results?

Some people notice smoother texture after a few weeks, but collagen remodelling takes months. Most scar plans are judged after a series of sessions rather than one.