Pigmented lesions and melasma
Melasma is a common pigment condition characterized by symmetrical brown patches on sun exposed areas. It often affects women and can flare with sun exposure, hormones, and climate. Clinicians in Korea rely on detailed assessments, sometimes using dermoscopy to distinguish surface pigment from deeper pigment. Treatment requires long-term commitment and consistent sun protection to reduce relapse risk.
Pigmented lesions are categorized by depth into epidermal, dermal, or mixed types, guiding therapy choices. Topical agents such as hydroquinone, tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and azelaic acid remain foundational. Chemical peels and lasers offer additional benefits when pigment depth is suitable, but must be chosen carefully to avoid post-inflammatory pigment changes. A tailored plan is essential to balance efficacy, safety, and patient preferences.
In clinics with extensive pigment care, non-ablative lasers are often preferred to minimize downtime while improving tone and texture. Laser options are selected based on skin type, pigment depth, and tolerance for temporary redness. Clinicians emphasize sun protection and maintenance regimens to sustain results. Ongoing evaluation helps adjust treatment as seasons and exposures change.
Safe removal of skin tags
Skin tags are small, benign growths that frequently appear on the neck, armpits, and eyelids. They are usually harmless but can be bothersome aesthetically or functionally. Removal is typically performed in a clinical setting to ensure sterility and precise technique. Awareness of lesion characteristics helps determine the safest course.
Professional removal options include shave excision, punch removal, cryotherapy, electrocautery, or laser. Home remedies like tying off are not recommended due to potential scarring and infection. In Korea, dermatologists perform these procedures under sterile conditions with minimal downtime. The location and thickness of the tag guide the method chosen.
Aftercare includes keeping the area clean, applying antiseptics as advised, and monitoring for signs of infection. If changes in color, rapid growth, or bleeding occur, seek urgent evaluation. Most patients experience minimal scarring when removal is performed by trained professionals. Consulting a clinician helps confirm the lesion is a skin tag and not something else.
Laser and light therapies
Korean clinics offer a range of laser and light therapies for pigment and surface concerns. CO2 and Er:YAG lasers provide controlled ablation for deeper lesions when appropriate. Nd:YAG and picosecond lasers target pigment with reduced downtime in experienced hands. Choosing a clinician with pigment correction experience is essential.
For melasma, lasers are often combined with topical regimens and chemical peels to improve results. Sun protection remains foundational to prevent relapse and uneven pigment return. Patients should expect multiple sessions and incremental improvements rather than overnight changes. Appropriate cooling, downtime management, and sun protection strategies optimize outcomes.
Emerging trends include pigment-sparing lasers, AI-guided treatments, and regenerative approaches to support skin healing. Clinicians emphasize personalized plans based on skin type, pigment depth, and lifestyle. Technology advances reduce the risk of pigmentary shifts in darker skin tones. Staying informed about trends helps patients ask precise questions during consultations.