Potenza RF Microneedling in Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
Potenza RF Microneedling · quick answer
What Potenza does, in one paragraph
Potenza is a radiofrequency (RF) microneedling device, often called a laser but actually not one: fine needles enter the skin to a set depth and release RF energy inside the dermis. The combination of tiny wounds and controlled heat stimulates collagen and elastin, gradually improving acne scars, enlarged pores, rough texture and mild laxity. Because heat is delivered beneath the surface, it is generally better tolerated by darker skin than ablative lasers. At Ever Skin Clinic in Apgujeong, a board-certified dermatologist sets the needle depth and energy for your skin.
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
- Radiofrequency microneedling (Potenza, Cynosure)
- Best for
- Acne scars, enlarged pores, rough texture, fine lines, mild laxity
- Sessions
- Often 2 to 4, about 4 weeks apart
- Treatment time
- About 20 to 40 minutes, plus numbing
- Downtime
- Redness and pinpoint marks for about 1 to 3 days
The treatment
What is Potenza RF microneedling?
Potenza delivers radiofrequency energy through insulated or non-insulated microneedles at depths that can be adjusted across the face. Monopolar and bipolar RF modes let the doctor target shallow texture or deeper scar tissue. The skin responds by remodelling collagen over the following two to three months.
It sits between gentle treatments such as standard microneedling and ablative resurfacing such as the fractional CO2 laser. Our RF microneedling page compares devices more broadly.
What Potenza can help with
- Acne scars — rolling and shallow boxcar scars
- Enlarged pores and oily, rough texture
- Fine lines and crepey skin
- Mild laxity on the lower face and neck
- Stretch marks on selected body areas
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
Potenza suits adults with textural concerns who want meaningful improvement with only a few days of social downtime. It is a useful option for medium to darker skin types, though pigment risk is not zero and settings are adjusted accordingly.
Deep ice-pick scars may need TCA CROSS and tethered scars subcision in addition, which your dermatologist will plan in stages.
Potenza may suit you if you
- Have acne scars or uneven texture
- Want smaller-looking pores
- Have mild skin laxity but do not need surgery
- Prefer shorter downtime than ablative lasers
- Have darker skin and need a lower-pigment-risk option
Your visit
What happens during treatment
Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours in clinic, including numbing time.
- Consultation A board-certified dermatologist assesses scars, pores and skin type and sets depth and energy.
- Numbing Numbing cream is applied for about 30 to 45 minutes.
- RF microneedling The handpiece is pressed across the face in passes, usually for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Aftercare We soothe the skin, explain aftercare and plan the next session about 4 weeks later.
Real patient · before & after
An example of our non-surgical results
This case shows a combined lifting and skin program, including InMode (a different radiofrequency device), and is included only as an example of our non-surgical work. It is not a Potenza result.
Scar and texture changes after Potenza build over months, so ask us for Potenza-specific cases 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, mild swelling and a grid of tiny marks are expected and usually settle in 1 to 3 days; some patients have slight flaking for a few days more. Less common risks include bruising, acne flares, prolonged redness, temporary darkening of the skin and, rarely, infection or scarring.
Tell your dermatologist if you have a pacemaker or metal implants in the area, active acne or infection, a history of keloids or cold sores, take isotretinoin or blood thinners, or are pregnant.
Aftercare tips
- Avoid make-up for 24 hours
- Use gentle cleanser, moisturiser and SPF 50
- Skip saunas, swimming and intense exercise for 2 to 3 days
- Avoid retinoids and acids for about a week
- Do not pick at flakes or marks
Questions we hear every day
Potenza RF Microneedling FAQ
Is Potenza a laser?
No. Despite the common name 'Potenza laser', it uses radiofrequency energy through microneedles, not laser light. It is grouped with our laser treatments because it is a device-based resurfacing and remodelling treatment.
Does Potenza hurt?
With numbing cream most patients feel pressure, heat and prickling, more over bony areas. Energy and depth can be adjusted during treatment. Most people find it manageable, and discomfort fades quickly afterwards.
How many Potenza sessions will I need?
Many patients have 2 to 4 sessions about 4 weeks apart. Deeper acne scars may need more, often combined with other scar techniques. Your dermatologist will estimate this after assessing your skin.
When will I see results?
Skin may look smoother within a couple of weeks, but collagen remodelling continues for about 3 months after each session, so the main improvement in scars and pores appears gradually. Results vary between individuals.
Can I have Potenza while visiting Seoul?
Yes, if you can allow 1 to 3 days of redness and tiny marks. Avoid strong sun and swimming for a few days. Because a course is several weeks apart, many visitors have one session in Seoul and plan the rest later.
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
