Acne Pitting Treatment Korea 2026 — Precision Scar Revision at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Acne pitting — the cratered, textured indentations left by severe inflammatory acne — requires depth-specific intervention, not surface-level laser passes. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu uses subcision, Potenza RF microneedling, Juvelook PDLLA biostimulator, and Pico fraxel in a layered protocol targeting each pit’s unique morphology. Reberry Signature Acne Package from ₩1,290,000. Potenza + Juvelook from ₩490,000.
What Is the Best Treatment for Acne Pitting in Korea?
Acne pitting treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam combines subcision to release tethered pits, Potenza RF microneedling for collagen remodeling at 0.5-3.5mm depth, and Juvelook PDLLA biostimulator to volumize depressed craters — producing 50-75% pit reduction over 3-6 sessions, with the Reberry Signature Acne Package starting at ₩1,290,000.
Acne pitting refers to the visible skin depressions that remain after deep inflammatory acne lesions — cysts, nodules, and severe papules — destroy collagen and subcutaneous tissue during the healing process. These pits are not merely surface imperfections; they represent structural voids in the dermis where collagen was destroyed and never properly regenerated. The depth, width, and wall geometry of each pit determines whether it is classified as an ice pick pit (narrow, deep, V-shaped), rolling pit (broad, undulating, tethered by fibrous bands), or boxcar pit (flat-bottomed, vertical walls). Each pit type demands a different treatment modality. A meta-analysis by Abdel Hay et al. (J Dermatolog Treat 2019; doi:10.1080/09546634.2019.1628174) confirmed that combination protocols significantly outperform single-modality treatments for pitted acne scars, with subcision + energy-based devices producing the highest patient satisfaction scores. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, our acne pitting treatment protocol begins with a detailed pit-by-pit assessment using the Goodman and Baron quantitative scale. Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu maps every pit on your face by subtype, depth, and severity before designing a layered treatment sequence. For rolling pits — the most common subtype in Asian patients — subcision with a Nokor needle releases the fibrous tethering, immediately elevating the depressed surface. Juvelook PDLLA (poly-D,L-lactic acid) is injected into the subcised pocket to prevent re-tethering and stimulate gradual collagen deposition over 3-6 months. For boxcar and mixed-depth pits, Potenza RF microneedling delivers bipolar radiofrequency energy through insulated needles at precisely controlled depths, creating controlled thermal injury that triggers a collagen cascade. Exosome delivery amplifies the regenerative response. For ice pick pits, TCA CROSS (trichloroacetic acid chemical reconstruction) or Pico fraxel laser targets the narrow, deep channels where broad-area devices cannot reach. The Reberry Signature Acne Package (₩1,290,000) includes Juberry 4cc + Potenza Exosome + Ehlstone PTT + Aqua Peel + Dermio Care — a comprehensive single-session protocol addressing multiple pit types. For targeted acne pitting treatment, Potenza + Juvelook is available at ₩490,000 per session. Most patients require 3-6 sessions at 4-6 week intervals. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Ryu also integrates Pico fraxel laser for superficial pitting and post-inflammatory pigmentation, Rejuran (₩240,000 for 2cc) for wound-healing acceleration, and laser toning for overall skin texture refinement. International patients with limited time in Seoul can receive intensive same-day combination sessions — subcision + Potenza + Pico in a single visit — maximizing results per trip.
Acne Pitting Treatment Before & After at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Actual patient results from RE:BERRY Gangnam. Individual results may vary. Multiple sessions shown.
How Acne Pitting Treatment Works at RE:BERRY Gangnam
A precision protocol customized to your pit types, depth, and distribution.
Step 1: Pit-by-Pit Mapping and Classification
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu examines your pits under magnification and cross-polarized lighting to classify each pit by subtype — ice pick, rolling, or boxcar — and measures depth using the Goodman and Baron quantitative grading scale (1-4). Each pit zone is mapped on a facial diagram to determine which combination of modalities is needed for that area. Active acne is assessed separately; if present, it must be controlled before acne pitting treatment begins. Digital photography establishes baseline documentation for objective before-and-after tracking. This step takes 15-20 minutes and is critical — skipping the classification leads to suboptimal modality selection.
Step 2: Subcision for Tethered Rolling Pits
Rolling pits — broad, undulating depressions caused by fibrous bands anchoring the dermis to subcutaneous tissue — account for 40-50% of pitting in most patients. Dr. Ryu inserts a Nokor needle through a tiny puncture beneath each rolling pit, sweeping laterally to sever the fibrous tethering bands. The skin immediately elevates as the tethering releases. A hematoma forms in the subcised pocket, and Juvelook PDLLA (poly-D,L-lactic acid) is injected to fill the void with collagen-stimulating biopolymer that prevents re-attachment. Clinical data shows 51% pit improvement after a single subcision session (Aalami Harandi et al. 2010), with outcomes enhanced by concurrent volumetric filling. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, subcision is always the first step for rolling pits.
Step 3: Potenza RF Microneedling + Exosome Delivery
For boxcar pits (flat-bottomed, vertical-walled depressions) and residual rolling pits, Potenza delivers bipolar radiofrequency energy through 25 insulated microneedles at adjustable depths (0.5-3.5mm). The insulated tips concentrate thermal energy at the needle tip within the dermis, sparing the epidermis from damage — critical for Asian skin where post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) risk is elevated. The controlled thermal injury triggers fibroblast activation, collagen synthesis, and dermal matrix remodeling. Immediately after acne pitting treatment with Potenza, exosome solution (growth factor-rich extracellular vesicles containing EGF, TGF-beta, VEGF) is delivered through the microchannels, amplifying the regenerative response and accelerating healing.
Step 4: Recovery, Aftercare & Multi-Session Planning
Post-treatment redness and mild swelling last 2-5 days (Potenza) or 5-7 days (subcision with bruising). Dermio Care LED therapy and calming serums are applied immediately. Sun protection (SPF 50+) is mandatory for 2-4 weeks. RE:BERRY provides aftercare instructions in your preferred language (8 languages available). Most acne pitting protocols require 3-6 sessions at 4-6 week intervals. Dr. Ryu reassesses pit depth and collagen response at each follow-up, adjusting modality combinations based on progress. International patients with limited time can receive intensive same-day combination sessions. The RE:BERRY Gangnam VIP recovery lounge is available for post-procedure rest in a 14,000 sq ft facility, 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10.
Why Choose RE:BERRY Gangnam for Acne Pitting Treatment
- Depth-Specific Multi-Modality Protocol: RE:BERRY treats each pit type with its optimal modality — subcision for rolling pits, TCA CROSS for ice pick pits, Potenza RF for boxcar pits. Combination therapy produces 50-75% pit improvement vs. 25-40% with single modality (Connolly et al. 2017).
- Pit-by-Pit Assessment by Dr. Ryu: Every pit is individually classified using the Goodman and Baron quantitative scale before treatment begins. This prevents the common clinical error of applying a single modality to all pit types, which wastes sessions and money.
- Safe for Asian Skin (Fitzpatrick III-V): Potenza’s insulated microneedles spare the epidermis, reducing PIH risk to under 2%. Ablative CO2 laser — which carries 15-30% PIH risk in Asian skin — is avoided unless specifically indicated for severe isolated boxcar pits.
- Exosome-Enhanced Collagen Remodeling: Exosome delivery after Potenza RF amplifies fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis. Growth factors (EGF, TGF-beta, VEGF) are delivered directly into the dermis through freshly created microchannels, accelerating pit-filling collagen deposition.
- Transparent Package Pricing: Reberry Signature Acne Package at ₩1,290,000 includes Juberry 4cc + Potenza Exosome + Ehlstone PTT + Aqua Peel + Dermio Care. Potenza + Juvelook standalone at ₩490,000. No hidden charges or surprise consultation fees.
- Intensive Protocol for Medical Tourists: Patients with limited time in Seoul can receive multiple modalities in a single day — subcision + Potenza + Pico fraxel — maximizing pit reduction per visit. RE:BERRY is open 365 days with 8-language support.
- Premium Facility with Prayer Room: RE:BERRY Gangnam’s 14,000 sq ft facility includes VIP treatment rooms, dedicated recovery lounges, and a Muslim prayer room. Located 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Redness, pinpoint bleeding (Potenza), and bruising/swelling (subcision areas). Mild tenderness when touching treated pits. Avoid sun, active skincare, and makeup. |
| Week 1-2 | Redness fades to pink. Subcision bruising resolves. Micro-crusts from Potenza exfoliate naturally. Skin may feel rough temporarily. Normal activities resume by day 3-5. |
| Month 1-2 | Early collagen remodeling begins beneath treated pits. Subcised rolling pits show maintained elevation as Juvelook stimulates new collagen formation. Superficial texture improvement visible. |
| Month 3 (After Session 2-3) | Significant pit depth reduction visible. Rolling pits show 40-60% improvement from subcision + Juvelook. Boxcar pit edges soften as Potenza-stimulated collagen fills the depression walls. |
| Month 6 (After Session 4-6) | Peak acne pitting treatment results. Multi-modality protocol produces 50-75% overall pit reduction. Skin texture dramatically smoother. Collagen remodeling continues for 6-12 additional months. |
| Month 12+ | Long-term collagen maturation. Results are permanent — pits do not return. Annual Potenza or laser toning maintenance can further optimize texture. New acne must be controlled to prevent new pitting. |
Acne Pitting Treatment Modalities — Comprehensive Comparison
| Modality | Subcision + Juvelook | Potenza RF Microneedling | Pico Fraxel Laser | TCA CROSS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Fibrous band release + biostimulator volumization | RF-heated microneedle collagen remodeling | Picosecond fractional photoacoustic effect | Chemical destruction of pit walls |
| Best Pit Type | Deep rolling pits | Boxcar pits, shallow rolling | Shallow ice pick, fine texture | Narrow deep ice pick pits |
| PIH Risk (Asian Skin) | Minimal | Low (insulated tips) | Low | Low-moderate |
| Downtime | 5-7 days | 2-5 days | 3-5 days | 7-10 days |
| Sessions Needed | 1-3 | 3-5 | 3-6 | 2-4 |
| Pain Level | Moderate (local anesthetic) | Moderate (numbing cream) | Mild-moderate | Mild (brief stinging) |
| Depth Reach | Subcutaneous (deepest) | 0.5-3.5mm adjustable | Epidermis + superficial dermis | Full depth of pit |
| Immediate Effect | Visible pit elevation | Redness only | Mild frosting | White frosting in pit |
| Collagen Stimulation | 3-6 months (PDLLA) | 3-6 months (RF + exosome) | 2-3 months | 2-4 months |
| Available at RE:BERRY | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Acne Pitting Treatment Pricing at RE:BERRY Gangnam
All prices exclude VAT (10%). Non-covered medical service. Multi-session packages available.
Potenza + Juvelook (or Exosome)
- Potenza RF microneedling (full face)
- Juvelook or Exosome delivery
- Depth-customized settings per pit zone
- Post-treatment Dermio Care
- 8-language aftercare instructions
Reberry Signature Acne Package
- Juberry 4cc biostimulator
- Potenza RF + Exosome delivery
- Ehlstone PTT (skin barrier repair)
- Aqua Peel deep extraction
- Dermio Care LED + calming therapy
- Dr. Ryu pit assessment + mapping
- 8-language aftercare support
Rejuran 2cc (Add-on)
- Rejuran PN (polynucleotide) 2cc
- Accelerated wound healing
- Collagen synthesis support
- Ideal add-on to pitting protocol
- 8-language aftercare support
Meet Your Doctor
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- CEO, RE:BERRY Clinic Gangnam
- Medical Director, Aesthetic Medicine Specialist
- Revinas Official KOL (Key Opinion Leader)
- Ultherapy Prime Certified Physician
- License No. 131644
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu, CEO / Medical Director, RE:BERRY
The Science Behind Acne Pitting Treatment
Peer-reviewed evidence supporting multi-modality acne pit revision at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
Pathogenesis of Acne Pitting
Acne pitting results from the destruction of dermal collagen during the inflammatory resolution phase of severe acne lesions. When a cyst or nodule ruptures, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) degrade the collagen framework, and the subsequent wound-healing response produces insufficient replacement collagen to restore the original skin architecture. The result is an atrophic depression — a pit — whose morphology depends on the geometry of collagen destruction. Fabbrocini et al. (Dermatology 2010; doi:10.1159/000277141) established that atrophic pitting represents 80-90% of all post-acne scarring, with the remainder being hypertrophic or keloidal. In Asian patients (Fitzpatrick III-V), atrophic pitting is especially prevalent, and the concurrent risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation complicates treatment selection — aggressive ablative devices that work well on Caucasian skin carry unacceptable PIH rates in darker phototypes.
Subcision: Releasing Tethered Pits
Subcision — introduced by Orentreich and Orentreich (Dermatol Surg 1995; doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.1995.tb00549.x) — is the foundation of rolling pit treatment. A tribeveled needle is inserted subcutaneously through a puncture adjacent to the pit and swept laterally to sever the fibrous anchoring bands. The immediate visible effect is pit elevation as the tethered skin is released. The hematoma that forms in the subcised pocket acts as a space maintainer and triggers connective tissue formation. When combined with poly-D,L-lactic acid (PDLLA) biostimulator injection — such as Juvelook — the subcised pocket is filled with a collagen-stimulating scaffold that prevents fibrous re-attachment and promotes gradual volume restoration over 3-6 months. Alam et al. (JAMA Dermatol 2018; doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.5903) demonstrated in a split-face randomized controlled trial that subcision with hyaluronic acid filler significantly improved rolling acne scar appearance versus subcision alone, confirming the additive benefit of volumetric filling post-subcision.
Radiofrequency Microneedling for Boxcar Pits
Bipolar radiofrequency microneedling (such as Potenza) targets boxcar pits through controlled thermal injury at adjustable dermal depths. Min et al. (Clin Exp Dermatol 2015; doi:10.1111/ced.12731) evaluated bipolar RF microneedling for atrophic acne scars in Asian patients and reported a mean 31-50% improvement after 3-4 sessions, with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in only 1.7% of subjects — significantly lower than the 15-30% PIH rate reported with ablative fractional CO2 laser in similar populations. The insulated needle design confines thermal energy to the target depth, preserving the epidermal melanocytes that drive PIH when damaged. This epidermal-sparing mechanism makes RF microneedling the preferred energy-based modality for acne pitting treatment in Asian skin.
Fabbrocini G et al. Dermatology 2010;221(1):2-8. doi:10.1159/000277141
Orentreich DS, Orentreich N. Dermatol Surg 1995;21(6):543-9. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.1995.tb00549.x
Alam M et al. JAMA Dermatol 2018;154(3):330-338. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.5903
Min S et al. Clin Exp Dermatol 2015;40(2):215-22. doi:10.1111/ced.12731
What Our Patients Say About Acne Pitting Treatment
“I spent years and thousands of dollars on fractional CO2 laser in my home country with almost no improvement in my pitting. Dr. Ryu at RE:BERRY was the first doctor to explain that my pits were rolling type and needed subcision, not laser. After 3 sessions of subcision + Juvelook, the change is remarkable — my cheeks are finally smooth.”
“The Reberry Signature Acne Package was perfect for my budget. They treated my active breakouts and pitting in the same session. The Potenza + Exosome combination has dramatically improved my boxcar pits without any hyperpigmentation — which was my biggest fear with dark skin.”
“As a medical tourist visiting Seoul for 10 days, I received 2 intensive sessions — subcision + Potenza + Pico on day 1 and day 7. By the time I left Seoul, the redness had faded and my skin was already visibly smoother. Will return for 2 more sessions next year.”
Frequently Asked Questions: Acne Pitting Treatment
Expert answers about acne pitting treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam Seoul.
₩490,000 per session for Potenza + Juvelook (or Exosome). The Reberry Signature Acne Package is ₩1,290,000, including Juberry 4cc + Potenza Exosome + Ehlstone PTT + Aqua Peel + Dermio Care. Rejuran 2cc add-on is ₩240,000. All prices exclude 10% VAT.
3-6 sessions at 4-6 week intervals is the standard protocol. Mild pitting may show satisfactory improvement in 3 sessions. Severe, widespread pitting with mixed subtypes typically requires 5-6 sessions. Dr. Ryu provides an estimated session count during the initial pit assessment.
Acne pitting is a subtype of acne scarring — specifically the depressed, crater-like indentations (atrophic scars). Acne scarring also includes raised scars (hypertrophic, keloid) and flat discoloration (PIH). 80-90% of post-acne scarring is pitting-type, making it the most common concern.
Topical numbing cream (lidocaine 23%) is applied 30-40 minutes before Potenza RF. Subcision uses local anesthetic injection. Most patients rate pain as 3-5 out of 10. The entire treatment session lasts 60-90 minutes including numbing time.
Yes, you can fly 24-48 hours after Potenza RF microneedling. After subcision, wait 3-5 days for bruising to subside before long flights. RE:BERRY provides portable aftercare kits for international patients traveling post-treatment.
Potenza RF microneedling is safer for Asian skin with PIH risk under 2% vs. 15-30% for ablative CO2 laser. CO2 may produce faster results on fair skin, but for Fitzpatrick III-V patients, the pigmentation risk is unacceptable. RE:BERRY Gangnam prioritizes Potenza for this reason. See our acne laser comparison guide for details.
They target different pit types. Subcision is the gold standard for rolling pits (tethered, undulating depressions). Potenza RF is optimal for boxcar pits (flat-bottomed, vertical walls). Most patients need both — Dr. Ryu classifies each pit and matches the modality accordingly.
Results are permanent. The collagen remodeling and structural changes produced by subcision + RF microneedling do not reverse. Pits do not return. However, new acne can create new pits, so maintaining acne control after treatment is essential.
Subcision produces immediate visible pit elevation (day 1). Potenza RF collagen remodeling begins at week 4-6 and peaks at month 3-6. Most patients notice meaningful improvement after session 2-3, with peak results at month 6 after a complete multi-session protocol.
Complete removal of deep pitting is not realistic with current non-surgical technology. However, multi-modality combination protocols produce 50-75% pit depth reduction — a clinically significant and visually dramatic improvement that most patients find highly satisfying.
Yes. Active acne must be controlled before beginning pit revision. Treating pits while new inflammatory lesions continue to form creates new pits faster than old ones can be treated. RE:BERRY offers concurrent acne management protocols.
Potenza RF: 2-5 days of redness and mild swelling. Subcision: 5-7 days of bruising and swelling. Pico fraxel: 3-5 days. Most patients resume normal activities within 3-5 days. Makeup can be applied after 24-48 hours (Potenza) or 5-7 days (subcision).
Yes. Potenza’s insulated microneedle tips concentrate RF energy in the dermis while sparing epidermal melanocytes, reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk to under 2% in Fitzpatrick III-VI skin. It is one of the safest energy-based devices for darker skin tones.
Rejuran (₩240,000 for 2cc) is a popular add-on that accelerates wound healing and provides additional collagen stimulation. Juvelook Concell is another option for deep volumization of severe pitting.
Exosomes are 30-150nm extracellular vesicles containing growth factors (EGF, TGF-beta, VEGF) and signaling molecules. Delivered through Potenza microchannels immediately after RF treatment, they amplify fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis, enhancing the pit-filling collagen response.
Minimum 3 days for a single intensive session (subcision + Potenza + Pico in one day). For 2 sessions spaced 1 week apart, plan 10-14 days. RE:BERRY Gangnam is open 365 days including weekends and Korean holidays, with 8-language staff support.
Appointments are strongly recommended for acne pitting treatment as sessions last 60-90 minutes and require pre-numbing. Book via WhatsApp (+82-2-039-2822), KakaoTalk, LINE, or email ([email protected]). Include photos of your pitting for a preliminary assessment.
Yes. RE:BERRY Gangnam provides consultation and aftercare in 8 languages: English, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Thai, Vietnamese, Mongolian, and Farsi. All treatment explanations and consent forms are available in your preferred language.
Yes. RE:BERRY Gangnam holds official device certifications from Merz Aesthetics (Ultherapy), Sofwave Medical, DEKA (Onda), Solta Medical (Thermage), and uses genuine Potenza RF systems. All device certification badges are displayed in the clinic.
Stop retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) 5-7 days before treatment. Discontinue blood-thinning supplements (vitamin E, fish oil, omega-3, ginkgo biloba) for 1 week. Avoid direct sun exposure for 2 weeks prior. Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin.
Yes. Potenza RF’s dermal collagen stimulation contracts pore openings while treating acne pitting. Many patients see 30-40% pore size reduction as a beneficial side effect of their pitting protocol. See our pore treatment page for details.
3 key differentiators: pit-by-pit classification (not one-size-fits-all laser), multi-modality protocol matching each pit type to its optimal treatment, and Dr. Ryu’s dual KOL status (Revinas + Juvelook) ensuring access to the latest devices and techniques.
RE:BERRY Gangnam uses evidence-based combination protocols verified by clinical literature, not trend-driven single-device marketing. Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu classifies every pit individually, offers 30+ device options, and operates in a premium 14,000 sq ft facility 2 minutes from Gangnam Station.
Yes. RE:BERRY Gangnam provides a dedicated prayer room for Muslim patients. It is available at any time during your visit, including during treatment downtime and recovery.
Contact via WhatsApp (+82-2-039-2822), email ([email protected]), KakaoTalk, LINE, or WeChat. Send close-up photos of your pitting under good lighting for a preliminary assessment. RE:BERRY is open 365 days, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
RE:BERRY Gangnam offers active acne treatment, comprehensive acne scar revision, acne laser therapy, back acne treatment, and post-acne hyperpigmentation correction.
Only Authentic, Brand-Certified Equipment
Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
Ready to Start Your Acne Pitting Treatment?
Book your pit assessment with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Depth-specific protocols customized to your pit types. 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10.
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- ✓ Free consultation with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- ✓ 8-language support (EN, JA, ZH, TH, VI, MN, FA)
- ✓ Gangnam Station area, Seoul
- ✓ No downtime treatments available
- ✓ Visa / Mastercard accepted
- ✓ Current promotion pricing available