Ice pick scar treatment in Gangnam, Seoul
Deep, narrow acne scars need targeted, scar-by-scar techniques — TCA CROSS, punch excision and fractional resurfacing — rather than surface treatments alone.
What are ice pick scars and how are they treated?
Ice pick scars are narrow, deep, V-shaped acne scars that look like small punctures and extend into the dermis. Because they are deep but small, they respond best to targeted methods such as TCA CROSS, where a strong acid is placed inside each scar, or punch excision, followed by fractional resurfacing to blend the surface. Several sessions are usually needed.
Ice pick scars are often mixed with rolling and boxcar scars. MIN Clinic doctors map each scar and use different tools on different scars in the same plan.
- Main methods
- TCA CROSS, punch excision
- Supporting
- Fractional laser, RF microneedling
- Sessions
- Usually 3–6
- Interval
- Every 4–6 weeks
- Downtime
- About 5–7 days small crusts
- Results
- Shallower after 2–3 sessions
- Performed by
- MIN Clinic physicians
- Location
- Cheongdam, Gangnam
Tools for ice pick scars
Chosen scar by scar according to width and depth.
TCA CROSS
Acid placed in the scar to build collagen from the base.
Punch excision
Removes a single deep scar; closed with fine sutures.
Fractional laser
Blends the edges and surrounding texture.
RF microneedling
Builds dermal collagen across the area.
A good fit if you…
- have small, deep, pinpoint acne scars
- have scars that do not improve with surface treatments
- have stable acne without active cysts
- can allow about a week of small crusts
Consider alternatives if you…
- still have active inflammatory acne
- have wide sloping scars — see rolling scar treatment
- are keloid-prone
- recently took isotretinoin (timing to be discussed)
Before & after acne scar resurfacing
Drag the handle to compare. Photographed at MIN Clinic with the patient’s consent.
Before
After
- Treatment
- LEGATO fractional laser
- Concern
- Acne scars, texture
- Downtime
- A few days
- Clinic
- MIN Clinic, Cheongdam-dong
Individual results vary. Photos are shown with patient consent and are not a guarantee of outcome. A doctor consultation is required before treatment.
View more before & afterHow TCA CROSS works
CROSS stands for Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars. The doctor places a tiny amount of high-strength trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at the base of each ice pick scar with a fine applicator.
This causes a controlled injury inside the scar only, which heals with new collagen and gradually raises the floor of the scar. Surrounding skin is left untouched, so recovery is limited to small crusts for about a week.
Why several sessions?
- Each session lifts the scar a little; 3–6 sessions are typical.
- Sessions are spaced 4–6 weeks apart to allow collagen to form.
- Very deep or wide scars may be better removed by punch excision.
How your visit works
Most international guests complete the visit in one half-day, timed around their flight.
Message us
Send photos and your goals on WhatsApp. We reply in English with options and an estimated price.
Skin analysis
An AI 3D skin analysis and a one-to-one consultation with your physician.
Treatment
Ice pick scar treatment is performed by your MIN Clinic physician, with numbing or comfort care where needed.
Aftercare
English aftercare notes, follow-up on WhatsApp and tax-free benefits with a foreign passport.
Scars turn white, then pink; mild sting.
Tiny crusts form and fall off.
Scars slightly shallower; repeat.
Noticeably smoother, fewer visible pits.
How much does ice pick scar treatment cost in Seoul?
Ice pick scar treatment in Seoul typically ranges from ₩100,000 to ₩300,000 per session depending on the number of scars and the methods combined. MIN Clinic confirms your price after mapping your scars.
Ice pick scar treatment
VAT 10% added for non-exempt patients · prices may vary with promotions · tax-free benefits with a foreign passport. Your exact price is confirmed at consultation.
See current offers
Seasonal offers and combination prices are listed on our event page and confirmed in writing at consultation.
Options for ice pick scars
Most patients receive a combination.
| Treatment | How it works | Downtime | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| TCA CROSS | Acid inside each scar | About 1 week crusts | Narrow deep scars |
| Punch excision | Scar removed and sutured | 5–7 days sutures | Isolated deep scars |
| CO2 fractional | Ablative laser columns | 5–7 days | Blending texture |
| Potenza | RF microneedling | 1–3 days | Overall scar texture |
Dr. Min Ji Kim
Director · Board-certified specialist, MIN Clinic Cheongdam
- Former Director, Apgujeong ORACLE Dermatology
- Member, Korean Society for Cosmetic Dermatology
- Academic exchange, Shibuya Scramble Dermatology (miraDry), Japan
Ice pick scar treatment questions we hear most
Can’t find your answer? Message our English-speaking team on WhatsApp.
What is the best treatment for ice pick scars?
TCA CROSS and punch excision are the most effective targeted options because they work inside each deep scar. Fractional laser or RF microneedling is then used to smooth the surrounding texture.
Is TCA CROSS painful?
Most people feel a brief sting as each scar is treated. Numbing cream keeps it comfortable, and the session is usually quick.
How long until I see results?
Scars usually look shallower after 2–3 sessions, with clearer improvement after 4–6 sessions as collagen builds.
Can microneedling alone fix ice pick scars?
Usually not. Ice pick scars are too deep and narrow for surface treatments alone, although microneedling helps the overall texture.
Will TCA CROSS darken my skin?
Temporary darkening can occur, especially in darker skin types. Sun protection and pigment-preventing home care reduce the risk; see post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Often explored with Ice pick scar treatment
Plan your Ice pick scar treatment in Cheongdam
4F Daedong Tower, 326 Dosan-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Sat from 10:00 · English & Korean
Results vary by individual. A doctor consultation is required before any treatment.
