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Skin & Laser Aftercare Korea: Recovery After Filler, Botox, HIFU & Dermatology Treatments (2026)

Skin & Laser Aftercare Korea: Recovery After Filler, Botox, HIFU & Dermatology Treatments (2026)

Medical Content Reviewed by MTK Clinical Team | Updated: August 2026

This guide provides official aftercare instructions for patients who have undergone aesthetic and dermatological treatments at MTK partner clinics in Korea. Whether you need filler aftercare Korea guidance, thread lifting aftercare instructions, Ultherapy aftercare Korea recovery tips, Rejuran aftercare protocols, or Botox aftercare Korea care steps, select your treatment below. Select your procedure below to view specific recovery guidelines, timeline expectations, and emergency contact protocols. These instructions are general guidelines — always follow any specific directions given by your treating doctor, as those take priority.

If you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, signs of infection, allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing), blistering, or tissue discoloration at the treatment site — contact your clinic immediately. Your MTK coordinator can assist with urgent communication if needed.

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Topical Aftercare Products

Tap any section title below to expand or collapse the aftercare instructions.

Topical Bruise Cream
  1. Bruise cream provides pain relief, anti-inflammatory action, and accelerates bruise resolution.
  2. Apply to bruised areas several times daily to help the body absorb the bruise more quickly.
  3. Due to the nature of the product, you may experience a warm or tingling sensation upon application.
  4. Do not use if you have a known hypersensitivity to salicylic acid or heparin sodium.
  5. Use only while symptoms are present — discontinue once the bruise has resolved.
Topical Soothing Ointment
  1. Soothing ointment helps calm post-treatment redness, itching, and stinging sensations.
  2. Apply 1-to-2 times daily to areas with redness, itching, or stinging to support recovery.
  3. Do not apply to open wounds or areas where the outer layer of skin has peeled away.
  4. This ointment contains a very small amount of steroid — do not use if you have a known steroid hypersensitivity.
  5. This is a medical ointment, not a cosmetic cream — do not use it as a daily moisturizer.
  6. Use only while symptoms are present — discontinue once they resolve.
Topical DuoDerm Regenerative Tape

Used after mole removal, filler, and thread lifting procedures

  1. Unless otherwise instructed, replace the tape every 1-to-2 days and keep it applied for a total of 7 days. If your doctor has given different instructions, follow those instead.
  2. If you experience itching or suspect a tape allergy, remove the tape immediately and apply the prescribed antibiotic ointment.
  3. For mole or wart removal around the under-eye area, apply only the prescribed antibiotic ointment — do not use DuoDerm tape in this area.
  4. You may wash your face and apply makeup while the tape is in place.
  5. Additional DuoDerm tape can be purchased at any Korean pharmacy.

Injection Treatments

Injection Skin Boosters (Rejuran, Anti-Aging Injections)
  1. You may experience heat, flushing, pain, and swelling after the procedure. Do not rub the treated area. Cold compresses can help. If you received ointment from the clinic, apply as directed. If symptoms are severe, contact the clinic for guidance.
  2. Bruising may occur, and needle marks may be visible for several days — both will resolve with time. Applying vitamin K cream can support faster recovery and skin regeneration.
  3. Small bumps may appear at the injection sites — this is normal and occurs because the product has been injected into the dermal layer and has not yet spread and absorbed evenly. These typically flatten within 1-to-3 days.
  4. Makeup is possible immediately after treatment, but keep it light for the first 3 days. Face washing is permitted after 1 hour. Avoid irritating the treatment area or exposing it to potential sources of infection.
  5. For at least 1 week after treatment, avoid exercise, saunas, and any activity that causes sweating or facial flushing.
  6. Apply sunscreen consistently and thoroughly.
  7. Alcohol and smoking delay wound healing and should be avoided. Smoking in particular causes repeated vasoconstriction and chronic microvascular damage, contributing to skin aging.
  8. Blood donation restriction: For Rejuran (PDRN) treatments, blood donation (whole blood and component donation) is restricted for 1 year from the date of treatment, per Korean Red Cross guidelines.
Injection Fat Dissolving Injections
  1. For 7-to-10 days after treatment, avoid excessive alcohol, smoking, exercise, and sauna or steam rooms — these can trigger inflammation.
  2. Gently massaging the treated area can improve results. However, avoid applying strong pressure (such as deep tissue or meridian massage).
  3. Bruising, swelling, redness, pain, and itching may occur at the injection site. These typically resolve within 3-to-4 days, though in some individuals symptoms may persist for 1 week or more.
  4. Drink plenty of water, and take extra care with sun protection until swelling and redness have subsided.
  5. Some patients may experience mild dizziness or nausea due to the injected medication. If this occurs, avoid strenuous movement and rest adequately.
Injection Filler
  1. Temporary pain, swelling, and bruising may occur at the injection site — severity varies by individual.
  2. Swelling and pain typically resolve within 3-to-7 days; bruising may persist longer.
  3. In patients with thin skin, the filler may be slightly visible beneath the surface.
  4. Inflammation can occur in rare cases and may lead to pigmentation changes that can persist for several months.
  5. To reduce the risk of inflammation, avoid alcohol and smoking for 1-to-2 weeks.
  6. Take all prescribed medications on schedule — these typically include antibiotics (to prevent infection) and pain relievers.
  7. Nose filler patients: Be cautious when wearing glasses — pressure from the frames can deform the filler shape.
  8. Nasolabial fold filler patients: Avoid opening your mouth too wide when laughing — filler can shift upward toward the under-eye area.
  9. Until the injected filler settles into position, avoid sleeping face-down, bumping the area, or applying direct pressure.
  10. Avoid touching the treated area repeatedly — this can cause infection or shape changes. Exercise caution for at least 2 weeks.
  11. In rare cases, tissue necrosis or vision impairment can occur. If you experience any discomfort, contact the clinic immediately.
Botox Botox — Square Jaw (Masseter)
  1. Immediately after treatment or within the first few days, the jaw muscle may temporarily appear more prominent, chewing strength may decrease, or you may experience a tight sensation that makes it difficult to open your mouth fully. These symptoms typically resolve within 3-to-7 days.
  2. To extend the duration of results, avoid foods that require excessive or prolonged chewing (such as gum, jerky, or hard snacks).
Botox Botox — Wrinkle (Forehead / Glabella)
  1. In rare cases, forehead or glabella Botox may cause the eyebrow area to feel raised or heavy, and ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid) may occur. These symptoms can persist for 2-to-4 weeks before resolving naturally.
Botox Botox — Body (Calf / Trapezius)
  1. Temporary muscle weakness, a dull aching sensation, and temporary increased prominence of the treated muscle may occur — all resolve naturally.
  2. To extend the duration of results, avoid exercises that heavily engage the treated muscle group.
  3. In rare cases, the following side effects may occur after administration: muscle weakness, speech difficulties, urinary incontinence, breathing difficulties, swallowing difficulties, double vision, decreased vision, or eyelid drooping. Contact the clinic immediately if any of these occur.
Injection Hyaluronidase (Filler Dissolving)
  1. Temporary pain, swelling, and bruising may occur at the injection site — severity varies by individual.
  2. Swelling and pain typically resolve within 3-to-7 days; bruising may persist longer.
  3. Inflammation can occur in rare cases and may lead to pigmentation changes that persist for several months.
  4. To reduce the risk of inflammation, avoid alcohol and smoking for 1-to-2 weeks.
  5. Avoid touching the treated area repeatedly — this can cause infection or expand the area of bruising. Exercise caution for 2-to-3 days.
  6. The filler will partially dissolve immediately after treatment, but 100% dissolution does not occur instantly. Wait 1-to-2 weeks and monitor progress before scheduling any additional procedures.
  7. An allergic reaction may occur at the treatment site. If this happens, contact the clinic immediately.

Laser & Energy Device Treatments

Laser Laser Treatments / Medical Skincare — Laser Aftercare
  1. Temporary heat sensation, pain, and flushing may occur after treatment. These typically resolve within 2-to-4 days, though individual recovery times vary. Gentle cold compresses can help.
  2. For approximately 3 days after treatment, avoid products containing alcohol (such as standard toners). For approximately 1 week, avoid topical products that may irritate the skin (whitening agents, chemical peeling products).
  3. Post-treatment skin can become very dry — apply moisturizer generously and frequently.
  4. For approximately 1 week, avoid activities that cause facial flushing or heat (saunas, intense exercise, alcohol consumption).
  5. Scabbing may occur depending on the type of laser used. Do not pick or peel scabs — allow them to fall off naturally.
  6. Pigmentation may temporarily appear darker after treatment, and small temporary breakouts may occur due to laser stimulation. Do not scratch or touch these — this can worsen the condition.
  7. Sunscreen is critical. A single morning application is insufficient — supplement with a spray-type sunscreen you can reapply over makeup throughout the day. UV exposure can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) that may persist for several months.
  8. Avoid rubbing the skin before and after applying makeup. Use hydrating sheet masks rather than manual massage. Patients with pigmentation conditions should be especially careful — rubbing the skin itself can trigger pigmentation.
  9. If you experience severe heat, itching, hives, oozing, or blistering at the treatment site, or any allergic reaction, contact the clinic immediately.
Laser CO2 Laser (Moles, Age Spots, Warts, Skin Tags)
  1. On the day of treatment, avoid getting water on the treated area. Face washing and makeup can resume the following day.
  2. DuoDerm regenerative tape absorbs wound fluid and will gradually swell and turn white — this is normal. You do not need to replace it every time it swells; once daily is sufficient.
  3. If applying prescribed ointment, apply a thin layer to the treated area morning and evening.
  4. Scabbing may occur. Do not pick or peel scabs — allow them to fall off naturally.
  5. Avoid steam rooms, saunas, and excessive smoking and alcohol — these can interfere with wound healing.
  6. Pigmentation may temporarily appear darker, and small temporary breakouts may occur due to laser stimulation. Do not scratch or touch these.
  7. Sunscreen is critical. A single morning application is insufficient — supplement with a spray-type sunscreen you can reapply over makeup. UV-induced hyperpigmentation can persist for several months.
  8. Avoid rubbing the skin before and after applying makeup.
  9. If you experience severe heat, itching, hives, oozing, or blistering, or any allergic reaction, contact the clinic immediately.
Laser New Aladdin Peeling
  1. Heat, swelling, and stinging redness at the treatment site are normal for the first 1-to-2 days. A dull or darkened appearance may persist for approximately 3 days.
  2. Between days 3 and 5, itching and small bumps may appear, and flaking skin may cause temporary dehydration and a feeling of tightness. Do not forcefully remove peeling skin — this can cause scarring or pigmentation.
  3. Post-treatment skin can become very dry — apply moisturizer generously. Avoid scrub products when cleansing or showering.
  4. For approximately 1 week, avoid activities that cause heat or flushing (saunas, intense exercise, alcohol consumption).
  5. Sunscreen is critical. A single morning application is insufficient — supplement with a spray-type sunscreen. UV-induced hyperpigmentation can persist for several months.
  6. If you experience severe heat, itching, hives, oozing, or blistering, or any allergic reaction, contact the clinic immediately.
  7. Do not allow water to contact the treated area for 24 hours after the procedure.
Laser Under-Eye Fat Repositioning (Laser-Assisted)
  1. Temporary pain, swelling, and bruising may occur at the treatment site — severity varies significantly between individuals.
  2. Swelling and pain typically resolve within approximately 1 week; bruising may persist longer.
  3. Avoid rubbing or applying strong pressure to the treated area.
  4. Inflammation can occur in rare cases, potentially leading to pigmentation changes that may persist for several months.
  5. Due to infection risk, avoid alcohol and smoking for 1-to-2 weeks.
  6. If pain or swelling worsens, or any abnormal reaction occurs, contact the clinic immediately.
Laser PicoFraxel
  1. A sunburn-like sensation and pain may last for approximately 1-to-3 hours after treatment. Swelling and redness typically persist for 3-to-7 days — severity varies by individual.
  2. Fine scabbing and flaking will occur at the treatment site. Scabs typically fall off within approximately 1 week, and marks will fade. Skin regeneration timelines vary by individual, and regenerative care begins after scab removal.
  3. Post-treatment skin becomes severely dry — hydration is critical. Apply regenerative cream diligently.
  4. Sunscreen is critical. A single morning application is insufficient — supplement with a spray-type sunscreen. UV-induced hyperpigmentation can persist for several months — exercise strict sun protection for several months following treatment.
  5. Avoid physical stimulation of the treated area. Deep tissue massage should wait until 2-to-3 weeks after treatment.
  6. Allergic reactions may occur in rare cases — contact the clinic if this happens.
  7. During the recovery period, avoid alcohol and saunas — these can trigger inflammation, dilate blood vessels, and reduce treatment efficacy.
  8. In rare cases, inflammation or burns may occur, potentially leading to pigmentation changes. If you experience severe heat, itching, hives, oozing, or blistering, contact the clinic immediately.
  9. Avoid face washing and makeup for approximately 2-to-3 days after treatment. When resuming cleansing, use gentle, non-irritating products.
Laser Laser Hair Removal
  1. Skin may become red immediately after treatment, with stinging and a bumpy texture — this is normal.
  2. Hair begins to shed gradually 1-to-2 weeks after treatment — hair will not disappear immediately.
  3. Hair will continue to grow between sessions. Do not pluck or wax regrowth — use a razor for gentle removal only.
  4. Recommended treatment interval is 4-to-8 weeks. Even after 5 or more sessions at proper intervals, some hair regrowth is possible.
  5. Hair removal results and duration vary by individual.
  6. The treated area may be sensitive for several days. Immediate cold compresses on the day of treatment can help alleviate symptoms.
  7. Temporary folliculitis (inflamed hair follicles) may occur, which can lead to pigmentation changes that persist for several months.
  8. To prevent folliculitis: avoid alcohol on the day of treatment, avoid saunas and swimming pools, and wait until the treated area has fully calmed before visiting steam rooms or similar facilities.
  9. If the treated area becomes itchy, develops hives, or feels hot — these may indicate folliculitis. Contact the clinic immediately.
  10. Apply sunscreen diligently to treated areas. UV-induced hyperpigmentation can persist for several months.

Lifting & Structural Treatments

Lifting HIFU Aftercare (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)

Applies to Ultherapy, Ultherapy Prime, Shurink, and Shurink Universe treatments

  1. Redness, heat, swelling, itching, temporary pain, small breakouts, hives, flaking, or small raised areas that may resemble scarring can all occur at the treatment site.
  2. After treatment, soothe the skin with hydrating and regenerative creams, and apply sunscreen thoroughly and consistently.
  3. Makeup is possible immediately after treatment. However, for 1-to-2 weeks, avoid alcohol, smoking, chemical peeling or exfoliation products, and activities that cause sweating or facial heat (exercise, saunas, steam rooms).
  4. Results do not appear immediately — collagen and elastin regeneration occurs over 2-to-3 months, with full lifting effects typically visible at approximately 3-to-6 months post-treatment.
  5. In rare cases, temporary numbness, pain, unusual sensations, or facial expression stiffness may occur in areas such as the forehead or around the mouth (due to facial nerve distribution). These typically resolve within 1-to-2 months.
  6. You may feel firm nodules beneath the skin — these are areas coagulated by the ultrasound energy and typically dissolve within approximately 4 weeks.
Lifting Thread Lifting
  1. Temporary swelling, pain, and bruising may occur at the treatment site — severity varies by individual.
  2. Swelling and pain typically resolve within 3-to-7 days; bruising may persist longer.
  3. If threads were placed along the jawline or nasolabial fold area, temporary pain may occur when eating, talking, or using the muscles around the mouth. Occasional tingling sensations (nerve stimulation) may also occur but will resolve quickly.
  4. Inflammation can occur in rare cases, potentially leading to pigmentation changes that persist for several months.
  5. The inserted threads do not dissolve immediately — for approximately 1 month after treatment, you may feel pain or a foreign-body sensation when talking, chewing, or washing your face.
  6. Due to infection risk, avoid alcohol and smoking for 1-to-2 weeks.
  7. In areas with significant muscle movement, a portion of the inserted thread may occasionally emerge through the skin surface. If this happens, contact the clinic for guidance.
  8. Deep tissue massage (such as meridian massage) should wait until 2 months after treatment.
  9. Adequate rest supports collagen regeneration. Maintain a straight sleeping posture for approximately 1 week after treatment.
Lifting RF Treatment (Radiofrequency)

Applies to Thermage FLX, InMode, and other radiofrequency treatments

  1. Redness, heat, swelling, itching, temporary pain, small breakouts, hives, flaking, or small raised areas that may resemble scarring can all occur at the treatment site.
  2. After treatment, soothe the skin with hydrating and regenerative creams, and apply sunscreen thoroughly and consistently.
  3. Makeup is possible immediately after treatment. However, for 1-to-2 weeks, avoid alcohol, smoking, chemical peeling or exfoliation products, and activities that cause sweating or facial heat (exercise, saunas, steam rooms).
  4. Some results may be visible immediately, but full lifting effects develop over approximately 1 month as collagen and elastin regeneration occurs.
  5. For 1-to-2 days after treatment, avoid extremely cold or hot compresses.
  6. For InMode treatments specifically: bruise-like red marks along the cheekbone, cheek, or jawline may occur in some individuals. These typically resolve within 1 week.

Body & Weight Management

Body Body / Weight Management Treatments
  1. After injection-based treatments, you may experience heart palpitations, hand tremors, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, or insomnia.
  2. Depending on the type of injection, changes in menstrual cycle may occur during the treatment period.
  3. Temporary itching, bruising, swelling, and pain may occur at the treatment site.
  4. In rare cases, pigmentation changes may occur at the treatment site and persist for several months.
  5. To prevent infection, avoid showering, swimming, saunas on the day of treatment, and limit alcohol consumption.
  6. If the treatment site becomes hot, itchy, or develops hives, contact the clinic immediately.

Stem Cell & Regenerative Treatments

Regenerative Stem Cell / J-Cell Treatments

Skin Applications

  1. Bruising and swelling at the treatment site typically improve within 1-to-2 weeks.
  2. Face washing and showering are permitted from the day after treatment — avoid scrubbing the treated area.
  3. If scabbing occurs, allow it to fall off naturally.

Scalp / Hair Loss Applications

  1. Bruising and swelling at the treatment site typically improve within 1-to-2 weeks.
  2. Pain at the treatment site may persist for 2-to-3 days.
  3. Shampooing is permitted after 24 hours — avoid scrubbing the treated area aggressively.
  4. If scabbing occurs, allow it to fall off naturally.

IV / Intravenous Applications

  1. Keep your body warm to support healthy blood circulation.
  2. Depending on individual condition, flu-like symptoms (muscle aches) may occur.

Common Precautions for All Stem Cell Treatments

  1. For optimal results, avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 2 weeks.
  2. Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) and topical patches for 2 weeks — these interfere with stem cell regeneration.
  3. If pain is significant, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) — a simple analgesic without anti-inflammatory components.
  4. Consult your doctor before taking any herbal medicines.

Important Medical Restrictions

  1. Patients with blood cancer cannot receive this treatment (autologous stem cells are used).
  2. Stop taking aspirin-based medications 7 days before the procedure — these interfere with stem cell separation.
  3. For 2 weeks after treatment, discontinue steroids, topical patches, anti-inflammatory drugs, and unverified herbal medicines.
  4. Avoid NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for a minimum of 2 weeks — these inhibit stem cell regeneration.
  5. Flu-like symptoms (muscle aches) and localized pain, heat, and tenderness at the treatment site may occur and typically resolve within 2-to-3 weeks.
  6. For post-treatment pain, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) — simple analgesics without anti-inflammatory components are recommended.

Scar, Pigment & Specialized Treatments

Laser Acne Scar / Scar Treatment
  1. Redness, swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation are normal for 2-to-7 days after ablative scar treatments (fractional CO2, Er:YAG). For non-ablative treatments (Pico toning, Potenza RF microneedling), downtime is typically shorter at 1-to-3 days.
  2. Tiny scabs or crusting will form over treated areas — do not pick, scratch, or peel them. Allow natural shedding over 5-to-10 days.
  3. Post-treatment skin is extremely dry. Apply prescribed regenerative cream and moisturizer generously and frequently.
  4. Sunscreen is absolutely critical — UV exposure after scar treatment causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) that can persist for months and undo treatment progress. Reapply every 2-to-3 hours when outdoors.
  5. Avoid alcohol, sauna, steam rooms, and intense exercise for at least 1 week.
  6. Avoid topical retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C serums, and any active skincare ingredients for at least 1-to-2 weeks after treatment.
  7. Results are cumulative — most scar treatment protocols require 3-to-6 sessions spaced 3-to-6 weeks apart. Visible improvement typically begins after 2-to-3 sessions and continues for months between sessions as collagen remodels.
  8. If significant redness, pain, oozing, or blistering persists beyond 7 days, contact the clinic.
Laser Tattoo Removal (Picosecond / Q-Switched Laser)
  1. Immediate whitening (frosting) of the treated area is normal and typically fades within 10-to-20 minutes after treatment.
  2. Blistering, swelling, redness, and tenderness at the treatment site are common for 3-to-7 days. Small blisters may form — do not pop, puncture, or drain them. They will flatten and heal naturally.
  3. Keep the area clean and dry. Apply prescribed antibiotic ointment and a non-stick bandage for the first 3-to-5 days as directed.
  4. Do not pick scabs or peeling skin. Allow the body to shed damaged skin naturally. Premature removal increases scarring risk.
  5. Avoid sun exposure on the treated area for at least 4-to-6 weeks between sessions. Use SPF 50+ sunscreen when the area will be exposed. Tanned skin increases the risk of hypopigmentation.
  6. Avoid swimming, saunas, and hot tubs until the area is fully healed — typically 1-to-2 weeks.
  7. Multiple sessions are required — professional tattoos typically require 6-to-12 sessions spaced 6-to-8 weeks apart. Amateur tattoos may require fewer. Fading is gradual and progressive.
  8. Temporary hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation may occur, especially on darker skin tones. This typically self-corrects over several months. Inform your practitioner of your Fitzpatrick skin type.
  9. If blisters become infected (pus, expanding redness, fever), contact the clinic immediately.
Treatment Hyperhidrosis Treatment (miraDry / Botox for Excessive Sweating)

miraDry (Microwave-Based)

  1. Swelling, redness, and tenderness in the underarm area are expected and may be significant for 1-to-2 weeks. Apply ice packs for the first 48-to-72 hours: 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
  2. Take prescribed pain medication as directed. Ibuprofen is typically effective. Some patients also benefit from sleeping with arms slightly away from the body to reduce friction on the treated area.
  3. Temporary numbness or tingling in the underarm or upper arm area is common and typically resolves within a few weeks.
  4. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 3-to-5 days — some patients need up to 1-to-2 weeks.
  5. Avoid deodorant or antiperspirant on the treated area for at least 48-to-72 hours.
  6. Results are typically permanent with 1-to-2 sessions. Some patients notice immediate sweat reduction; for others, full effect develops over 2-to-4 weeks.

Botox for Hyperhidrosis

  1. Injection site soreness and small red marks are normal for 1-to-2 days.
  2. Do not exercise or expose treated areas to heat (sauna, hot bath) for 24 hours after injection.
  3. Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area for 24 hours — this can cause the toxin to migrate to unintended muscles.
  4. Results begin at 3-to-5 days and reach full effect at approximately 2 weeks. Duration is typically 4-to-6 months, after which repeat treatment is needed.
Cosmetic Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)
  1. Do not wash your scalp for at least 3-to-4 days after each session. When you resume washing, use a gentle, fragrance-free shampoo and avoid scrubbing the treated area.
  2. Do not touch, scratch, or pick at the treated area. Scabbing and light flaking are normal and indicate healing — allow them to shed naturally.
  3. Avoid sweating for at least 4-to-5 days — no gym, sauna, steam rooms, or intense physical activity.
  4. Avoid direct sunlight on the scalp for at least 4 weeks after each session. UV exposure causes fading. Once fully healed, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to the scalp when outdoors.
  5. Avoid swimming, ocean water, and chlorinated pools for at least 4-to-5 days after each session.
  6. The pigment will appear darker and bolder immediately after treatment — this is normal. Color will lighten by 20-to-40% as the skin heals over 7-to-10 days, settling into its final shade.
  7. SMP typically requires 2-to-3 sessions spaced 1-to-2 weeks apart to build up density and refine the hairline.
  8. Avoid applying any products (oils, serums, minoxidil) to the treated area for at least 4-to-5 days after each session.
  9. Long-term maintenance: SMP may gradually lighten over 3-to-5 years. Touch-up sessions can restore density as needed.
Device Microneedling Aftercare / Dermapen
  1. Redness resembling a moderate sunburn is expected for 24-to-72 hours after microneedling. Skin may also feel tight, warm, and mildly swollen — this is the normal inflammatory response that triggers collagen production.
  2. Do not apply makeup for at least 12-to-24 hours. The micro-channels created by the needles are still open during this period — applying cosmetics risks introducing bacteria and causing infection or breakouts.
  3. Use only gentle, fragrance-free products for the first 48-to-72 hours: a simple hydrating serum (hyaluronic acid is ideal), a gentle moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen. Avoid retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C, exfoliants, and any active ingredients for at least 3-to-5 days.
  4. Do not touch your face with unwashed hands for at least 24 hours — the micro-channels make your skin temporarily more vulnerable to bacteria.
  5. Avoid direct sun exposure and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen diligently for at least 2 weeks. Post-microneedling skin is significantly more photosensitive.
  6. Avoid exercise, saunas, steam rooms, and hot showers for 24-to-48 hours — sweating and heat can irritate the treated skin and increase infection risk.
  7. Minor peeling or flaking may occur on days 3-to-5 — this is normal. Do not pick or scrub. Moisturize generously.
  8. Results are cumulative. Most protocols recommend 3-to-6 sessions spaced 3-to-4 weeks apart for optimal collagen stimulation and scar improvement.
  9. If you experience persistent redness beyond 5 days, pustules, or signs of infection, contact the clinic.
Regenerative PRP Therapy / Vampire Facial
  1. Redness, swelling, and a tight sensation are expected for 24-to-72 hours. If PRP was combined with microneedling (the "Vampire Facial"), expect more pronounced redness similar to a moderate sunburn.
  2. Mild bruising may occur at the PRP injection sites and typically resolves within 5-to-7 days. Applying arnica cream or vitamin K cream can help accelerate bruise resolution.
  3. Do not wash the treated area for at least 6 hours after PRP application — the growth factors need time to absorb into the skin.
  4. No makeup for at least 12-to-24 hours. Use only gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer and sunscreen once you resume skincare.
  5. Avoid retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, exfoliants, and all active skincare ingredients for at least 3-to-5 days.
  6. Avoid direct sun exposure and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen for at least 2 weeks.
  7. Avoid exercise, sauna, and alcohol for at least 24-to-48 hours.
  8. Results develop gradually over 2-to-4 weeks as collagen synthesis is stimulated. A series of 3-to-4 treatments spaced 4-to-6 weeks apart is typically recommended.
  9. PRP is derived from your own blood — allergic reactions are extremely rare. However, if you notice signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus), contact the clinic.
Regenerative Exosome Therapy
  1. Mild redness and a warm sensation are normal for 12-to-24 hours after exosome application — significantly less downtime than most laser or microneedling procedures.
  2. Do not wash the treated area for at least 4-to-6 hours to allow maximum absorption of the exosome growth factors into the skin.
  3. Avoid makeup for at least 12 hours. When resuming, use clean, gentle products only.
  4. Avoid active skincare ingredients (retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C serums) for 24-to-48 hours.
  5. Apply sunscreen diligently — SPF 30+ for at least 1-to-2 weeks post-treatment.
  6. Avoid exercise, sauna, and alcohol for 24 hours.
  7. Exosome therapy is often combined with microneedling or laser to enhance delivery. If combined, follow the aftercare instructions for the delivery method (microneedling or laser) as the primary guide, as those procedures create the skin channels that require more careful aftercare.
  8. Results are cumulative and develop over 2-to-4 weeks. A series of 3-to-5 sessions is typically recommended depending on the treatment goal (skin rejuvenation, scar improvement, hair growth stimulation).
Injection Profhilo / PDRN (Salmon DNA) Skin Booster
  1. Small bumps (wheals) at injection sites are normal and typically flatten within 12-to-24 hours. These are caused by the hyaluronic acid or PDRN being deposited in the dermal layer.
  2. Mild redness, swelling, and tenderness at injection points are expected for 24-to-48 hours. Bruising may occur and typically resolves within 5-to-7 days.
  3. Do not massage or rub the treated area for at least 12-to-24 hours — the product needs time to spread and integrate naturally.
  4. No makeup for at least 12 hours. Avoid touching the face with unwashed hands.
  5. Avoid strenuous exercise, sauna, and alcohol for 24-to-48 hours.
  6. Avoid direct sun exposure and apply sunscreen for at least 1-to-2 weeks.
  7. For Profhilo: the standard protocol is 2 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart, with maintenance every 6-to-12 months. Skin hydration and firmness improvements typically become visible 2-to-4 weeks after the second session.
  8. For PDRN (Rejuran/Salmon DNA): a series of 3-to-4 sessions spaced 2-to-4 weeks apart is typical. Results include improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and enhanced elasticity, developing gradually over the treatment course.
  9. If you notice persistent lumps, expanding redness, or signs of infection beyond 48 hours, contact the clinic.
Device LED Therapy / PDT (Photodynamic Therapy)

LED Light Therapy (Red, Blue, Near-Infrared)

  1. LED therapy has minimal to zero downtime. You can typically resume all normal activities, including makeup application, immediately after the session.
  2. Mild warmth or a temporary pink flush may occur and resolves within minutes to hours.
  3. Apply moisturizer and sunscreen as part of your normal routine.
  4. Results are cumulative — a series of 8-to-12 sessions (2-to-3 per week) is typically recommended for optimal anti-inflammatory, collagen-stimulating, or acne-reducing effects.
  5. LED therapy is safe to combine with most other skin treatments. Your provider may schedule it immediately before or after other procedures to enhance healing.

PDT (Photodynamic Therapy) for Acne or Skin Rejuvenation

  1. PDT has significantly more downtime than standard LED. A photosensitizing agent (such as ALA or MAL) is applied to the skin before light exposure, making the treated area highly sensitive to light for 24-to-48 hours.
  2. Strictly avoid ALL light exposure — including sunlight, bright indoor lighting, and screen glare — for 24-to-48 hours after treatment. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and stay indoors as much as possible. Even brief sun exposure can cause severe burns on photosensitized skin.
  3. Redness, swelling, peeling, and a stinging sensation are expected for 3-to-7 days. The skin may appear significantly red, similar to a sunburn, and peeling is part of the normal healing process.
  4. Do not apply makeup for at least 24-to-48 hours. Use only gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer and sunscreen (physical/mineral sunscreen is preferred).
  5. Avoid exercise, sauna, and alcohol for at least 48-to-72 hours.
  6. Acne may temporarily worsen (purging) before improving — this is expected as the treatment clears clogged pores.
  7. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen rigorously for at least 4 weeks after PDT. Post-treatment skin is extremely photosensitive.
  8. A series of 2-to-4 PDT sessions spaced 2-to-4 weeks apart is typical for acne treatment.
Treatment Cryotherapy (Liquid Nitrogen Treatment for Warts, Skin Lesions)
  1. Stinging, redness, and swelling at the treated site are immediate and expected. Pain typically peaks within the first few hours and subsides within 24-to-48 hours.
  2. A blister may form at the treatment site within 24 hours — this is a normal response to the freezing. The blister may be clear or blood-filled. Do not pop, puncture, or drain the blister. It will flatten and heal on its own within 1-to-2 weeks.
  3. Keep the area clean and dry. Apply prescribed antibiotic ointment and a bandage if the blister is in an area prone to friction (hands, feet). Change the bandage daily.
  4. A scab will form as the blister dries — do not pick or pull the scab. Allow it to fall off naturally over 1-to-3 weeks.
  5. Temporary hypopigmentation (lightening) or hyperpigmentation (darkening) of the treated area is common, especially on darker skin tones. Color changes typically normalize over 2-to-6 months.
  6. Apply sunscreen to the treated area once it has healed to prevent pigmentation changes.
  7. Multiple sessions may be needed for persistent warts — typically 2-to-4 treatments spaced 2-to-3 weeks apart.
  8. If the blister becomes infected (expanding redness, pus, increasing pain, fever), contact the clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I avoid sun exposure after laser treatment in Korea?

Most laser and energy device treatments require strict sun protection for at least 2-to-4 weeks, with consistent SPF 30+ sunscreen application for several months afterward. UV exposure after laser treatment can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that persists for months. Reapply sunscreen every 2-to-3 hours when outdoors, and supplement with a spray-type sunscreen over makeup.

Can I wear makeup after filler or Botox in Korea?

After Botox, you should avoid rubbing the treated area for 24 hours but light makeup is generally acceptable the same day. After filler injections, most clinics recommend waiting at least 12-to-24 hours before applying makeup to minimize infection risk at the injection sites. Avoid pressing or massaging the treated area when applying or removing makeup for at least 1-to-2 weeks.

How soon can I fly home after dermatology treatments in Korea?

Most non-surgical dermatology treatments such as Botox, filler, laser, and skin boosters allow same-day or next-day air travel. Thread lifting and fat dissolving injections may require 2-to-3 days before flying due to swelling. Confirm your specific travel timeline with your treating doctor before booking your return flight.


If you experience any severe or unexpected symptoms after your treatment, contact your clinic immediately. Your MTK coordinator is available to assist with communication, translation, and emergency coordination.


Aftercare Guides by Specialty

View recovery instructions for other medical specialties:


Medical Disclaimer: This aftercare guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace the specific post-treatment instructions provided by your treating physician. Individual recovery experiences vary. Always follow the instructions given by your doctor — if there is any conflict between this guide and your doctor's advice, your doctor's advice takes priority. If you experience any unexpected or severe symptoms, contact your treating clinic immediately.

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