PDT Photodynamic Therapy in Apgujeong,
Gangnam, Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
PDT Photodynamic Therapy · quick answer
What PDT does, in one paragraph
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combines a photosensitising solution, usually based on aminolevulinic acid (ALA), with a specific light source. The solution is taken up mainly by oil glands and acne bacteria; when light activates it, it produces reactive oxygen that suppresses the glands and calms inflammation. This can reduce oiliness, active acne and recurrence. At Ever Skin Clinic in Apgujeong, a board-certified dermatologist checks acne severity and medicines first, then sets the absorption time and light dose.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Jieun Kim, M.D.
Founder & Director, Ever Skin Clinic · Board-certified dermatologist
- Adjunct Professor, Hanyang University College of Medicine
- Dermatology residency, Hanyang University Hospital
- Master’s degree in Dermatology, Hanyang University
- Regular Member, Korean Dermatological Association
- Regular Member, Korean Laser Medicine Association
- Member, World Congress of Dermatology
- Published in JAAD and Annals of Dermatology
- English-speaking consultations
Meet our dermatologists → Last reviewed October 2026
- Technology
- Photosensitiser (ALA-based) activated by red or blue light
- Best for
- Persistent inflammatory acne, oily skin, enlarged pores, recurrent breakouts
- Sessions
- Often 3 to 5, about 2 to 4 weeks apart
- Treatment time
- About 1.5 to 2 hours including absorption
- Downtime
- Redness and peeling for about 2 to 7 days; strict light avoidance for 48 hours
The treatment
What is photodynamic therapy for acne?
Unlike antibacterial creams, PDT acts on the oil glands themselves. Once the photosensitiser has accumulated in sebaceous glands, a measured light dose triggers a reaction that shrinks gland activity and reduces acne bacteria. The effect can last for months, which is why PDT is used for acne that keeps coming back.
The intensity is adjustable: shorter absorption gives a milder treatment with little downtime, longer absorption a stronger response with more peeling. PDT is one of our acne laser treatments, alongside Gold PTT, and can be part of a wider acne treatment plan.
PDT may help with
- Moderate to severe inflammatory acne
- Recurrent adult acne that returns after other treatments
- Very oily skin
- Enlarged pores linked to oil production
- Acne-prone skin as part of long-term management
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
PDT suits patients with persistent or oily acne who have not improved enough with topical treatments, and those who cannot or prefer not to take oral isotretinoin. It is not a first choice for mild comedonal acne, which usually responds to skincare and topicals.
You will need to stay out of sunlight and bright indoor light for about 48 hours afterwards, so plan PDT when you can spend time indoors, not on sightseeing days.
PDT may suit you if you
- Have red, inflamed acne that keeps returning
- Have very oily skin and enlarged pores
- Prefer to avoid or limit oral acne medicines
- Can stay indoors and avoid light for 48 hours
- Can attend a course of sessions
Your visit
What happens during treatment
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours in clinic, mostly for the solution to absorb.
- Consultation A board-certified dermatologist grades acne, reviews medicines and decides the intensity.
- Photosensitiser The skin is cleansed, sometimes extracted, and the solution is applied to absorb for about 30 to 90 minutes.
- Light activation The face is exposed to the light source for about 10 to 20 minutes; stinging and warmth are common.
- Protection The solution is removed, sunscreen applied and you leave with light-avoidance instructions.
Real patient · before & after
An example of our non-surgical results
This case shows a combined lifting and skin program and is included only as an example of our non-surgical work; it is not a PDT or acne treatment result.
Acne response varies, so ask us for acne-specific cases and a realistic plan at consultation.
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
Redness, swelling and a sunburn-like sensation are common for 1 to 3 days, often followed by peeling and sometimes a temporary acne flare. Exposure to sunlight in the first 48 hours can cause a strong burn-like reaction. Temporary pigment change and crusting are less common.
Tell your dermatologist if you have porphyria or another light-sensitive condition, take photosensitising medicines (some antibiotics, diuretics, isotretinoin), are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a history of cold sores.
Aftercare tips
- Stay indoors away from sunlight and bright light for 48 hours
- Wear a hat, mask and SPF if you must go out
- Use gentle cleanser and non-comedogenic moisturiser
- Do not pick peeling skin or spots
- Avoid retinoids and acids until peeling settles
Questions we hear every day
PDT Photodynamic Therapy FAQ
Does PDT hurt?
Most patients feel stinging, burning or heat during light exposure, strongest in the first few minutes. Cooling fans or pauses help. The skin may feel sunburned for a day or two afterwards.
Why do I need to avoid light after PDT?
Some photosensitiser remains in the skin for about 48 hours. Sunlight or strong indoor light during that time can activate it and cause a painful burn-like reaction. Staying indoors and covering up prevents this.
How many PDT sessions will I need?
Many patients have about 3 to 5 sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. Some see benefit after one or two. Maintenance may be suggested if acne tends to recur.
Can I have PDT during a holiday in Seoul?
It is possible, but you must spend about two days indoors afterwards and may have visible redness and peeling. Schedule it when you can rest rather than before sightseeing or a flight with window-seat sun.
PDT or isotretinoin: which is better?
Isotretinoin is generally the most effective treatment for severe acne but has systemic side effects and rules. PDT is a procedure-based option for patients who cannot or prefer not to take it, or as an add-on. Your dermatologist will compare them for your case.
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
