Agnes RF vs Potenza: Comparing Acne and Pore Treatment Approaches

Two radiofrequency treatments with different goals

Agnes RF and Potenza are both Korean clinic favourites for acne-prone skin, and both use radiofrequency (RF) energy delivered through needles. That shared basis leads many people to assume they are interchangeable. In practice, they are designed around different ideas. Agnes is known for very selective, targeted treatment of individual problem spots, while Potenza is typically used to treat a whole area of skin in a more uniform way.

How Agnes RF works

Agnes uses very fine, insulated microneedles. Insulation means most of the needle is shielded, and energy is released only at the uninsulated tip. This allows a doctor to place RF energy at a very specific depth with relatively little effect on the surface.

Targeted acne treatment. Agnes is widely discussed for treating individual inflamed or recurrent acne lesions by targeting the oil gland at that spot.
Other targeted uses. It is also used in some clinics for small cysts, under-eye fat pads, or specific areas of skin laxity.
Precise but slow. Because it works spot by spot, a session can be time-consuming.

Agnes is not on the price list at Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon. If you are interested in it, you can ask during consultation which options are available for your skin.

How Potenza works

Potenza is an RF microneedling platform that treats a broad area using a grid of needles. Several tip types allow it to be adapted to scars, pores, or acne-prone skin, and needle depth can be changed across different parts of the face.

Whole-area treatment. It treats the full face or selected zones evenly, rather than spot by spot.
Acne scars and texture. Widely used to stimulate collagen and smooth texture.
Pores and oiliness. Often chosen when enlarged pores and oily skin are major concerns.

At our clinic, Potenza full face is KRW 99,000 (tip charged separately). This is a first-visit price, VAT excluded (10% VAT added at payment), checked October 2026. See our Potenza page and the full price list.

Comparing the approaches

Precision versus coverage. Agnes is built for pinpoint targeting. Potenza is built to treat the overall skin surface.
Best fit for active acne. If you have a few recurring lesions in the same spots, a targeted approach is often discussed. If your acne comes with widespread oiliness, pores and scarring, a broader approach may be considered.
Scars and texture. Potenza is more commonly used for overall scar and texture improvement. Agnes is not typically the main tool for this.
Session experience. Both use numbing cream and cause some discomfort. Targeted treatments may take longer if many spots are treated.
Downtime. Both usually cause redness and swelling for a few days. With targeted treatment, small marks may appear at individual sites.

Other options for acne and pores

RF treatments are only one part of acne care. Depending on your skin, the doctor may suggest:

Capri laser steps 1–3, KRW 89,000. A laser programme that may be considered for oily, acne-prone skin.
Aquapeel steps 1 and 2, KRW 9,900. A cleansing treatment that helps with clogged pores.
Medical acne care. Extractions, anti-inflammatory injections for painful lesions, and prescription skincare, discussed at consultation. See our acne treatment page.

These prices are also first-visit, KRW, VAT excluded, checked October 2026.

Risks and considerations

RF microneedling of any kind can cause redness, swelling, tiny needle marks, pinpoint bleeding and temporary darkening. Less commonly, infection, prolonged redness or scarring can occur. Tell the doctor if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device, have metal implants in the face, or have used isotretinoin recently, as these may affect whether RF treatment is appropriate. Results vary and depend on the type and cause of your acne.

Frequently asked questions

Can I have Agnes at Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon?

Agnes is not on our price list. Please ask during consultation which options are available. The doctor can explain alternatives for your acne and pores.