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GraysGrays Dermatology
Duration
15-25 minutes
Recommended sessions
3-5 sessions at 3-4 week intervals recommended
Downtime
Temporary redness for a few hours to a day

Dr. Kim Tae-hoon, Medical Director · Reviewed by our medical director

Board-certified dermatologist · review date to be posted

Severe nodular acne may still require concurrent medication.

01Overview

Smoothbeam An acne laser that goes straight to the sebaceous glands

Smoothbeam is a 1450nm diode laser that selectively treats the sebaceous glands in acne-prone skin.

Duration
15-25 minutes
Recommended sessions
3-5 sessions at 3-4 week intervals recommended
Downtime
Temporary redness for a few hours to a day
How long it lasts
Builds over a course of sessions (individual results vary)

03Device & Technology

Smoothbeam Device

Candela (USA) · FDA cleared · MFDS (Korean FDA) approved

05Before / After

Before & After

Smoothbeam acne progress over sessions

Clinical photos. Results vary with skin condition, age and treatment plan. Before-and-after photos are published with the patient's written consent, taken under identical conditions (lighting, angle) and never retouched. Results vary by individual.

07FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How does Smoothbeam manage acne?

Smoothbeam is a 1450nm diode acne laser that delivers heat to the depth where the sebaceous glands sit. It works by lowering the activity of overactive sebaceous glands, reducing the cycle of recurring acne. It is a device from Candela of the US, FDA cleared and MFDS (Korean FDA) approved.

Who is this treatment suited to?

It is used for those whose acne keeps returning in the same spots, or who have heavy sebum production and noticeable shine. It is also considered as a way to manage recurring acne for those for whom oral medication is a concern. We assess the acne stage (active or marks) and sebum condition at consultation to determine whether it is suitable.

Can acne improve without medication?

A laser that targets the sebaceous glands can be an alternative for those wary of medication. However, depending on the severity of the acne, combining medication is sometimes the better option. Which approach is right is decided after diagnosis.

I'm taking oral acne medication or other medicines. Can I still have it?

If you are taking any medication, be sure to tell us at your visit. This is because caution is needed if you are taking photosensitizing medication that makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Whether and when treatment is possible is decided at consultation after reviewing your medications and skin condition.

How many sessions do I need?

We typically recommend a course of 3-5 sessions at 3-4 week intervals. The course can be adjusted according to your acne condition and the area. The number of sessions needed varies by individual.

When do results appear, and how long do they last?

We check changes in sebum production at around 2-4 weeks after treatment, and gradually reduce the cycle of recurring acne as sessions accumulate. Sebaceous gland activity can recover over time, so we recommend maintenance depending on your condition. The degree of change and how long it lasts vary by individual.

Does it hurt? How long does it take?

Pain is moderate; treatment is performed after topical numbing cream and with cooling spray to reduce discomfort. The treatment takes about 15-25 minutes depending on the extent. How it feels varies by area and individual.

Can I return to daily life right away?

Most people can return to daily life right away. Temporary redness and stinging may last from a few hours to 1 day right after treatment. After treatment, keep up with moisturizing and sun protection, and follow the skincare routine we recommend.

Does it help with acne marks?

Smoothbeam's main purpose is treating active acne and controlling sebum. For red marks after acne we plan Vbeam alongside it, and for depressed scars the Scar Combination Program. The type of mark is determined at consultation.

How is it different from Potenza?

Smoothbeam uses a laser to deliver heat to the sebaceous glands, focusing on recurring acne and sebum control, while Potenza uses microneedle RF to address acne as well as pores, scars, and flushing, depending on the tip. If sebum is the core issue we use Smoothbeam, and if pores or scars are also a concern, Potenza is sometimes combined. The choice follows the consultation findings.

Is Smoothbeam alone enough for severe acne?

Severe nodular acne may not be adequately addressed by Smoothbeam alone and may require concurrent medication. In addition, treatment may be postponed or adjusted if there is a wound or infection in the treatment area, you have recently had strong UV exposure, or you are pregnant. We determine the treatment sequence after assessing your current acne condition at consultation.

How much does Smoothbeam cost?

The cost depends on the treatment extent and number of sessions, so it is confirmed after consultation. General reference prices can be found on the price list on our website. Consultations can be booked via Naver Booking, our KakaoTalk channel, or phone (+82-51-710-1891), and are also available via LINE.

Fees

Pricing depends on extent and number of sessions, and is confirmed after consultation.

See the fee schedule →
References 5
  1. Approval: Smoothbeam · FDA cleared · MFDS (Korean FDA) approved
  2. Manufacturer: Candela (USA)
  3. Korea MFDS medical device registry — searchable by approval number
  4. Korean Dermatological Association — specialist credential lookup
  5. Reviewed by: Dr. Kim Tae-hoon, Medical Director
Summary & comparison
TreatmentTarget layerMain changeDurationHow long it lastsDowntime
Smoothbeam ←An acne laser that goes straight to the sebaceous glands15-25 minutesBuilds over a course of sessions (individual results vary)Temporary redness for a few hours to a day
PotenzaL2 DermisRF microneedling that treats skin problems at the root30-40 minutesBuilds over a course of sessions (individual results vary)Redness and fine scabs possible for 1-3 days
LaLa PeelAn LHA peel designed to reduce irritation and protect the skin barrierAdvised after consultation, depending on compositionBuilds over sessions — maintenance care according to skin condition (individual results vary)Temporary redness or fine flaking possible — varies with skin condition
Acne Treatment ProgramLong-term acne care that addresses the sebaceous glands and the surrounding skin environmentAdvised after consultation, depending on compositionLong-term care — recurrence possible depending on hormonal and lifestyle factors; maintenance neededVaries by composition — temporary erythema; 1-3 days of erythema or fine scabs possible when Potenza is included

Treatments used for the same concern, placed side by side. Which one fits is decided in consultation after the layer is identified.

Reviewed byDr. Kim Tae-hoon, Medical Director · Board-certified dermatologist · review date to be posted

Next step

Wondering if this treatment fits you?

Leave your main concern and request a consultation. Suitability, schedule and fees are confirmed after review.

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