10 Things to Check Before Booking Your Skin Treatment in Seoul

Before You Glow, Know the Details

Seoul’s dermatology and aesthetic clinics are famous for their high standards, advanced technology, and natural results.
But with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re planning laser toning, skin boosters, or anti-aging treatments, these are 10 essential things to check before confirming your appointment.

1️⃣ Clinic Reputation & Credentials

Start with research. A beautiful website doesn’t always mean qualified doctors.
✔️ Check Google Maps, Naver, or Instagram reviews for genuine patient feedback.
✔️ Avoid clinics with overly dramatic before/after photos or heavy sales tactics.

💡 Tip: Reputable clinics list doctor profiles, credentials, and memberships in Korean dermatology societies.

2️⃣ Doctor’s Experience with Your Treatment

Always confirm who performs the procedure—and how often they do it.

• Ask how many years of experience the doctor has with your specific treatment (e.g., filler, laser, thread lift).
• Request to see real case examples (not stock photos).
• Make sure the consultation and procedure are handled by the same specialist.

3️⃣ Foreigner-Friendly Communication

Language matters.
✔️ Confirm if English (or your language) support is available during consultation and after-care.
✔️ Ask if you’ll have a translator, coordinator, or English-speaking nurse.
✔️ If the staff uses translation apps, double-check key medical terms in writing to avoid misunderstandings.

4️⃣ Transparent Pricing

Before paying, ask for a detailed price breakdown.

• Is VAT (tax) included?
• Are numbing cream, after-care masks, or follow-ups charged separately?
• Is the same price offered to local and foreign patients?
• Can you receive an English invoice or tax-refund form?

💡 Tip: Be cautious of “too-good-to-be-true” deals—these may involve cheaper devices or less-experienced injectors.

5️⃣ Treatment Details & Device Brands

Always ask which machine, brand, or injection product the clinic uses.

• For lasers: which device model and wavelength?
• For fillers: what brand (Juvederm, Neuramis, Revolax, etc.)?
• For threads: is it PDO, PLLA, or PCL?

Knowing this ensures your treatment is genuine and FDA/KFDA-approved.

6️⃣ Refund & Cancellation Policy

Unexpected changes happen.
Ask for the clinic’s refund terms in writing before paying a deposit:

• How far in advance must you cancel to receive a refund?
• What if the doctor changes your treatment plan?
• How are refunds processed for international credit cards?

7️⃣ After-Care & Follow-Up

Good clinics don’t disappear after your procedure.
✔️ Ask what after-care products or visits are included.
✔️ Find out how long redness, swelling, or downtime may last.
✔️ Request written after-care instructions in English.
✔️ If you’re leaving Korea soon, ask about remote follow-ups via KakaoTalk or email.

8️⃣ Safety & Hygiene Standards

A professional skin clinic should feel clinical—not like a beauty salon.

• Ensure the room is clean, tools are sterilized, and disposable needles are opened in front of you.
• Ask about emergency protocols (especially for injectables).
• Check if they have proper registration and a visible medical license on display.

9️⃣ Realistic Results & Expectations

If the clinic promises a “perfect face in one session,” it’s a red flag.
Korean dermatology focuses on natural, gradual improvement.
Ask for expected timelines and discuss whether multiple sessions are recommended.
Great doctors educate patients honestly, not sell quick fixes.

🔟 Location & Accessibility

Choose clinics in convenient, central areas like Gangnam, Apgujeong, Myeongdong, or Sinsa, where many reputable doctors practice.
Check transportation options, parking, and nearby hotels if you’re visiting from abroad.
Being close to your clinic makes follow-ups and emergency care easier.

Bonus Tip: Trust Your Gut

If you feel rushed, pressured, or uncomfortable—walk away.
A good clinic values your confidence as much as your skin.

Final Thoughts

Korea’s skin clinics offer some of the most advanced and effective aesthetic treatments in the world. By checking these 10 points before you book, you’ll ensure a safe, transparent, and satisfying experience—one that leaves your skin glowing and your mind at ease.