What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of darkened skin due to excess melanin production or uneven distribution of pigment. It includes sunspots (solar lentigines), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne or injury, hormonal melasma, and uneven skin tone. At QD Plastic Surgery, Dr. Hong evaluates the depth and cause of pigmentation to design a safe, effective treatment plan tailored to Asian skin anatomy.

Who Can Benefit from Hyperpigmentation Treatments?

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have dark spots, uneven patches or brown discoloration on your face or body
• Notice post-acne marks or shadowing under the eyes
• Suffer from melasma linked to hormones, sun exposure or skin irritation
• Want a clearer, more even skin tone without heavy coverage makeup
• Seek treatments suitable for Asian/ethnic skin types, with minimal risk of further pigment issues

Treatment Techniques Used at QD Plastic Surgery

1. Laser / Pico Laser Toning & Spot Treatment

Precise laser pulses target melanin deep in the skin without significant downtime, suitable for stubborn deep spots or mixed pigmentation.

2. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) & Broad-Spectrum Light-Based Therapy

Used for broader tone correction and mixed brown-red discoloration; helps brighten the skin and reduce diffuse pigmentation.

3. Chemical Peels & Medical-Grade Peel Boosters

Light to medium peels help accelerate skin renewal and fade superficial pigmentation by exfoliating pigment-laden skin cells.

4. Brightening Injections & Skin Regenerative Boosters

Intracutaneous treatments (e.g., polynucleotides, glutathione, tranexamic acid injections) support pigment reduction, improve skin barrier and prevent recurrence.

5. Topical Prescription / Maintenance Program

After in-office treatment, a customised topical program (brightening serums, sunscreen, melanin blockers) helps maintain results and prevent return of pigmentation.

Step-by-Step Procedure

StepDescriptionConsultationDr. Hong assesses skin tone, map of pigmentation, depth and cause; determines best modality.PreparationCleanse area, apply numbing cream if needed (for laser or peel).TreatmentThe chosen method (laser, IPL, peel, injection) is administered according to skin area and pigment type.Post-CareMild redness or brown darkening of spots may occur; sun protection is emphasised.ResultsImproving tone is seen within weeks; full result seen after 2–3 sessions and ongoing skin maintenance.

Benefits of Hyperpigmentation Treatment at QD Plastic Surgery

✨ Significantly reduces appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone
✨ Enhances skin clarity, brightness and tone uniformity
✨ Customised for Asian skin and pigment types
✨ Minimises risk of pigment recurrence with maintenance protocol
✨ Quick recovery compared to more invasive resurfacing procedures

Recovery & Aftercare Tips

🩹 Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily to prevent new pigment formation
🩹 Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for 2–4 weeks post-treatment
🩹 Use gentle, barrier-supporting skincare; avoid harsh exfoliants until cleared
🩹 For laser/peel: mild brown darkening of spots followed by shedding/flaking is normal
🩹 Maintain follow-up sessions and topical regimen to sustain results

Estimated Cost in Seoul

💰 Single session laser/toning for pigmented spots: approx. ₩120,000 – ₩250,000
💰 Deeper pigment treatment (Pico laser, multi-session): approx. ₩250,000 – ₩400,000+
💰 Combined treatment package (laser + peel + injection) over 3–5 sessions: approx. ₩500,000 – ₩1,000,000
(Final quote depends on area, depth of pigment, number of sessions and clinic package.)

Why Choose Dr. Hong at QD Plastic Surgery

• Expertise in pigmentation correction and advanced dermatology
• Utilises state-of-the-art devices and customised treatment plans for Asian skin
• Located in Sinnonhyeon, Gangnam — convenient for local and international patients
• English, Chinese, Japanese-speaking support available for foreign visitors
• Transparent pricing, realistic expectation setting, and structured after-care