For the pigment
that other lasers,
cannot reach.
Melasma is the most challenging pigmentation to treat — too aggressive, and you trigger rebound darkening; too gentle, and nothing changes. JRYN Seomyeon uses three Q-switched and laser toning platforms — Helios, Revlite, and Clarity — in low-fluence repeated protocols specifically designed for Asian skin's sensitivity to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
At a glance.
- Treatment time
- 15–25 minutes
- Results visible
- 4–8 weeks
- Duration
- 6–12 months (with maintenance)
- Downtime
- 0
- Sessions needed
- 8–15 (1–2 week intervals)
- Price range
- ₩100,000 – ₩250,000 per session
What is Melasma Laser Toning?
Patient. Persistent. Precisely calibrated.
Melasma laser toning uses Q-switched 1064nm Nd:YAG laser at very low fluence (energy level), delivered repeatedly over many sessions. Unlike high-energy single treatments that can worsen melasma, laser toning gradually weakens melanocyte activity while triggering minimal inflammation — the key to managing melasma in Asian skin without triggering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. At JRYN Seomyeon, we use three FDA-approved platforms: Helios III (Korean innovation, gentlest), Revlite (Cynosure imported, balanced), and Clarity (Lutronic, premium with Adaptive Cooling). Treatment is a marathon, not a sprint — 8–15 sessions over 4–6 months produces the best results.
"A great nose isn't bigger or smaller — it's
in proportion with your face.
"
Dr. Lee · 15+ years in pigmentation disorders
Consultation Photo · 4:5
The science
,
simplified.
Understanding the mechanism helps you set realistic expectations and choose the right brand for your goals.
Pigmentation diagnosis
Dr. Lee differentiates melasma from sun spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and ABNOM. Each requires a different laser approach. Wood's lamp examination clarifies depth.
Topical numbing
Numbing cream is applied for 15 minutes before treatment. Most fillers also contain lidocaine, so injection discomfort is minimal.
Low-energy laser toning
Helios III, Revlite, or Clarity Q-switched lasers at low fluence. Multiple gentle passes rather than aggressive single sessions. No downtime, mild redness only.
Instant result, 2-week settling
Results are visible immediately. Minor swelling and firmness resolves over 1–2 weeks, revealing the final natural-looking contour. Effect lasts 12–18 months.
From consultation
to confidence.
Most foreign patients complete the entire experience — consultation, treatment, and a brief aftercare check — in a single afternoon.
Photo · 1:1
Consultation
15-minute analysis with Dr. Lee. Facial measurement, brand selection, honest expectation-setting. No pressure to proceed same day.
Photo · 1:1
Treatment
15-minute procedure with topical numbing. Cannula technique for safety. Real-time mirror feedback so you see the result building.
Photo · 1:1
Aftercare
Multilingual aftercare instructions. WhatsApp support for your entire stay. Optional 2-week video follow-up included.
Where we inject
,
and why.
Each area has its own anatomical target, typical volume, and result timeline. Dr. Lee will recommend a personalized plan during consultation.
| Concern | Recommended Laser | Sessions | Expected Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epidermal melasma | Helios + Topical regimen | 8–10 sessions | 60–80% |
| Dermal melasma | Revlite + Tranexamic acid | 12–15 sessions | 40–60% |
| Mixed melasma | Clarity + Combined therapy | 10–14 sessions | 50–70% |
| PIH from acne | Helios + Pico | 6–10 sessions | 70–90% |
| Sun-induced lentigos | Pico + Q-switched | 3–5 sessions | 80–95% |
| Hori's nevus | Revlite high-fluence | 5–8 sessions | 60–80% |
Korean & imported
,
side by side.
Both Korean and imported filler brands are clinically safe when administered by licensed dermatologists. Differences come down to cost, longevity, and specific properties.
| Brand | Price | Best For | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Korea Helios III | ₩100,000 | Sensitive Asian skin, primary melasma | 6–9 months |
| Imported · FDA Revlite (Cynosure) | ₩150,000 | Mixed pigmentation, balanced delivery | 6–12 months |
| Imported · FDA Clarity (Lutronic) | ₩200,000 | Premium with cooling, deep pigment | 9–12 months |
| Korea Combined Multi-laser | ₩250,000 | Resistant melasma, comprehensive | 12+ months |
Good candidates &
who should wait.
Every treatment has ideal candidates and situations where it's not recommended. Safety first — always.
Good candidates
- Diagnosed melasma (epidermal, dermal, or mixed)
- Stubborn pigmentation unresponsive to topical only
- Patient with realistic timeline (4–6 months for results)
- Willing to commit to strict sun protection routine
- Korean, Asian, Latin American, or mixed skin types
Not ideal for
- Recent sun exposure or active tan
- Pregnancy (melasma should not be treated during)
- Photosensitizing medications
- History of cold sores without prophylactic antiviral
- Unrealistic expectations of complete clearance
Before & after.
What happens after.
We believe in informed patients. Here's what to expect after treatment, and the full safety profile.
After your treatment
- Strict sun avoidance with SPF 50+ mineral every 2 hours
- Wide-brim hat outdoors for 2 weeks after each session
- Continue topical regimen (tranexamic, hydroquinone) as prescribed
- No heat exposure (saunas, hot yoga, hot showers) for 48 hours
- No exfoliating actives 24 hours before/after each session
- Track triggers (hormones, stress, sun) in journal
- Photograph progress monthly to assess subtle improvement
Possible side effects
- Mild swelling at bridge (2–3 days)
- Small bruising (resolves within a week)
- Tightness or firmness when smiling (2 weeks)
- Tiny redness at injection points (24 hours)
- Vascular occlusion (extremely rare with proper technique; Dr. Lee uses cannula to minimize risk)
- Tyndall effect — bluish tint from superficial placement (correctable)
- Asymmetric swelling (resolves as filler settles)
- Infection at injection site (very rare with sterile technique)
Dr. Lee Portrait
Dr. Jeong Heon Lee,
board-certified
dermatologist.
Every face has its own quiet rhythm.
My work is to add precision without erasing what's natural
—
revealing what already makes you beautiful,
in its most graceful form. A journey we walk together.
- MD, Inje University College of Medicine
- Member, Korean Dermatological Association
- Member, Korean Society of Cosmetic Dermatology
- 15+ years in cosmetic dermatology
A space designed
for foreign patients.
Located 3 minutes from Seomyeon Station. English signage, multilingual staff, and consultation rooms designed to feel like a private studio rather than a hospital.
Main Photo · 4:3
"We designed every consultation room to feel calm, unhurried, and private — the way decisions about your face deserve to be made."
JRYN · Seomyeon, Busan