Aqua Peel in Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
Aqua Peel · quick answer
What Aqua Peel does, in one paragraph
Aqua Peel is a non-invasive, water-based facial that uses a handpiece combining gentle suction with cleansing and exfoliating solutions to lift oil, sebum and dead skin from pores, followed by hydrating serums. It is well suited to oily, congested or dull skin and leaves the surface cleaner and smoother with little or no downtime. At Ever Skin Clinic in Apgujeong, the solutions and suction are adjusted to your skin after a dermatologist reviews your concerns, including whether acne or sensitivity needs separate care.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jieun Kim, M.D. Founder & Director, board-certified dermatologist. Dermatology residency at Hanyang University Hospital; adjunct professor, Hanyang University College of Medicine. Meet our dermatologists Last reviewed October 2026
- Technology
- Water-based suction with exfoliating and hydrating solutions
- Best for
- Oily skin, blackheads, congested pores, dullness
- Session time
- About 30 to 45 minutes
- Downtime
- Mild redness for a few hours
- Course
- Often 3 to 6 sessions 1 to 2 weeks apart, then monthly
The treatment
What is Aqua Peel?
Aqua Peel is a form of hydradermabrasion. Instead of crystals or a diamond tip, it uses liquid solutions delivered through the handpiece while suction draws out oil and debris. The first solutions are usually mildly exfoliating, for example containing gentle acids, to loosen sebum plugs; later steps deliver hydrating and calming ingredients.
It is particularly useful for blackheads and oily T-zones. Compared with HydraFacial, it works on a similar principle, and our team will suggest whichever fits your skin and the rest of your plan within pore and texture refinement.
What a session focuses on
- Cleansing - removes surface oil and residue
- Exfoliation - gentle solutions loosen dead cells and sebum
- Pore suction - lifts debris from congested pores
- Hydration - moisturising serums to finish
- Calming - soothing care for skin that reddens easily
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
Aqua Peel suits most skin types, and is especially helpful for oily or combination skin with visible blackheads, rough texture or dullness. Because it is gentle, many patients use it as regular maintenance or to prepare the skin before other treatments.
It does not change pore size at a structural level. If your pores are enlarged from ageing or scarring, your dermatologist may add pore tightening with lasers or RF microneedling.
Aqua Peel may help if you want to
- Clear blackheads and congested pores
- Control the look of an oily T-zone
- Smooth rough, dull skin
- Keep skin clear between laser or acne treatments
- Refresh your skin with little or no downtime
Your visit
What happens during treatment
A session takes about 30 to 45 minutes and needs no numbing.
- Skin check Your skin type, oiliness and sensitivity are reviewed so the solutions and suction can be chosen.
- Cleansing Make-up and surface oil are removed.
- Aqua peeling The handpiece glides over the face, delivering solutions while suction clears pores, with extra passes on congested areas.
- Hydration and protection Hydrating or calming care is applied, finished with sunscreen.
Real patient · before & after
An example of a full-face skin plan
This case shows a combined lifting and skin program, shown as an example of our non-surgical results; it is not an Aqua Peel result.
Aqua Peel mainly produces cleaner, smoother-looking skin that is subtle in photos. Ask us at consultation if you would like to see cases relevant to your concern.
Photos are shared with the patient's consent and are not retouched apart from privacy blurring. Results differ from person to person and are not guaranteed.
See more before & after photosRecovery & safety
Recovery, side effects and aftercare
Mild redness or a tingling feeling is common and usually settles within a few hours, so most people return to normal activities straight away. Occasionally, sensitive skin can feel dry or irritated for a day, and small breakouts may appear as pores clear.
Tell the team before treatment if you use isotretinoin or strong retinoids, have inflamed acne, rosacea, eczema, sunburn, a cold sore or skin infection, or are allergic to any skincare ingredients such as salicylic acid.
Aftercare tips
- Keep skincare simple and hydrating for a day or two
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
- Avoid scrubs and exfoliating acids for a few days
- Do not squeeze pores after treatment
- Skip saunas and heavy make-up on treatment day
Questions we hear every day
Aqua Peel FAQ
Does Aqua Peel hurt?
No, most people find it relaxing. You feel cool liquid and gentle suction, sometimes with slight tingling from the exfoliating solution. No numbing is needed, and the suction can be lowered on sensitive areas.
How often should I have Aqua Peel?
For congested or oily skin, a course of about three to six sessions one to two weeks apart works well, followed by maintenance about once a month. Your dermatologist will suggest a rhythm that suits your skin.
Is Aqua Peel the same as HydraFacial?
They are similar water-based treatments that combine suction with cleansing and hydrating solutions. Device design and serums differ slightly. Your dermatologist will recommend one based on your skin and goals rather than the brand name.
Can Aqua Peel help acne?
It can reduce blackheads and congestion that contribute to breakouts, but it does not treat inflamed acne on its own. Active acne is best managed with medical treatment, and Aqua Peel can then support clearer skin.
Can I have Aqua Peel before a flight or event?
Yes. Redness usually fades within hours, so it fits well into a short trip or before an event. Keep the skin moisturised on flights and use sunscreen outdoors.
Talk to a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Send us your skin concern and photos on WhatsApp. An English-speaking team member will reply and arrange your consultation.
Mon & Thu 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00 · Closed Wed, Sun & holidays
