Decoding Seoul's Skin Obsession: Dermatology Clinics vs. Esthetic Shops for Travelers Seeking the Korean Glow

[mediK / HEALTH IN NEWS] Walk down any bustling street in Seoul's Gangnam district, and you'll be greeted by a dazzling array of neon signs advertising dermatology clinics and skin care shops, often just a block apart. To many foreigners, they all seem like places dedicated to beauty and skin health. But Koreans draw a sharp distinction: dermatology clinics are full-fledged medical institutions offering diagnosis and treatment, while esthetic shops (or "skin care esthetics") focus on non-medical beauty maintenance and relaxation.

1. The Korean 'Gwanri' Culture: A Commitment to Ongoing Skin Management

In Korea, skin care isn't reserved for special occasions—it's a routine part of life, much like going to the gym. This dedication to consistent upkeep, known as gwanri (관리, gwanri in Korean), reflects a broader cultural emphasis on preventing aging and maintaining skin health over time.

Those deeply invested in their routines often pursue a two-pronged approach: visiting dermatology clinics for powerful laser treatments or lifting procedures that deliver quick, visible results, and heading to esthetic shops for soothing care and meridian massages to sustain those gains. So what sets these two worlds apart?

2. The Essential Difference: Medical Treatment vs. Beauty Care
Dermatology clinics are staffed by licensed physicians who perform procedures using medical devices—think lasers, Botox, or fillers—for dramatic, immediate transformations. These often involve some discomfort, requiring anesthetic cream, and can come with downtime like bruising or swelling. Esthetic shops, by contrast, employ trained therapists who use hands-on techniques, such as meridian massages (gyeongrak, 경락 in Korean) and lymphatic drainage, with minimal pain and no recovery period—making them ideal even mid-trip.

Prices reflect the intensity: dermatology sessions typically range from around 50,000 to over 500,000 won, while esthetic treatments fall between 50,000 and 200,000 won. Korean dermatology has earned global acclaim, drawing a significant share of medical tourists seeking advanced skin procedures.

Both settings prioritize a calm, comfortable atmosphere, but for any treatment involving machines or needles, a clinic with board-certified dermatologists is the safer choice.

3. When to Choose Which: A Practical Guide

Opt for a dermatology clinic if you're targeting:

• Pigmentation issues like melasma, dark spots, or discoloration
• Acne scars
• Noticeable lifting or contouring effects
• Procedures requiring medical-grade equipment

Head to an esthetic shop for:

• Reducing facial puffiness (the Korean pursuit of a refined, "small face")
• Recovery from travel fatigue and pure relaxation
• Post-procedure soothing after a dermatology visit
• Gentle maintenance without downtime

4. Tips for International Visitors: From Booking to Payment

Reservations are essential—walk-ins can mean hours of waiting or outright refusal. Use KakaoTalk or Instagram to book ahead.

Many clinics in areas like Gangnam (강남), Hongdae (홍대), and Myeongdong (명동) offer English interpretation. There's no tipping culture here, and you'll typically remove your shoes and change into slippers before entering treatment rooms.

Note that as of late 2025, the 10% VAT refund previously available for certain cosmetic procedures at registered dermatology clinics has ended, though standard shopping tax refunds still apply elsewhere.

5. A Word of Caution: The Intensity of Gyeongrak Meridian Massage

Gyeongrak massages, a signature esthetic treatment, bear little resemblance to gentle Western facials like Swedish massage. They apply firm pressure to stimulate blood and lymph flow along meridian lines, promoting circulation and often aiming for a slimmer facial contour. The technique can be surprisingly intense—some describe it as downright painful—and bruising isn't uncommon. If it's too much, don't hesitate to speak up and ask for lighter pressure.

Oh Ha Eun medi·K TEAM press@themedik.kr

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