Potenza is a radiofrequency microneedling device used in Seoul for acne scars, pores and rough texture. This guide explains its 2026 prices, what each option includes, and how to fit a Potenza course around a trip to Korea.
At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, Potenza RF microneedling costs ₩299,000 for one full-face session, ₩399,000 with a booster delivered through the microchannels, ₩449,000 for the face and neck, and ₩799,000 for a 3-session full-face course (about ₩266,300 per session), in KRW excluding 10% VAT. Most people need about three sessions four to six weeks apart for acne scars or pores. Expect 2–4 days of redness after each session. Numbing cream is always included, and a doctor sets the depth and energy for your skin.
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
What is Potenza RF microneedling?
Potenza is a radiofrequency (RF) microneedling device from Cynosure. Fine needles enter the skin to a set depth and release RF energy at their tips, heating the deeper layers to stimulate collagen while the surface stays largely intact. Because the doctor can adjust needle depth and energy, Potenza can be tailored to different concerns, from enlarged pores to atrophic acne scars. It can also be used to help deliver boosters through the tiny channels it creates. Learn more on our Potenza treatment page.
How much does Potenza cost in Korea (2026)?
| Option | What it covers | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 session | Full face | ₩299,000 |
| 1 session with booster | Full face plus a booster delivered through the microchannels | ₩399,000 |
| 1 session | Full face and neck | ₩449,000 |
| 3-session course | Full face, about ₩266,300 per session | ₩799,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed at consultation. Numbing cream is always included. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026; see payment and tax. Full details are on the Potenza price page.
Single session vs 3-session package
Potenza builds collagen gradually, and most concerns improve more after a series than after a single session. The 3-session course costs ₩799,000, which works out at about ₩266,300 per session compared with ₩299,000 for a single session.
A single session suits you if
- You are visiting Seoul for a short trip and cannot return in four to six weeks.
- You want to try RF microneedling before committing to a course.
- You are mainly treating mild pores or texture.
The 3-session course suits you if
- You are treating acne scars, which usually need repeated sessions.
- You live in Korea, are staying for a few months or return regularly.
- You want the lowest cost per session.
If you buy a course but may not finish it, ask beforehand how unused sessions are handled. A course only saves money if you complete every session, so visitors with uncertain return plans often pay per session instead. Some people have their first session in Seoul and continue RF microneedling with a doctor at home; if you do this, bring a written record of the settings and products used so your next doctor can plan safely. The spacing of four to six weeks gives collagen time to build between sessions, so squeezing sessions closer together to fit a trip is not recommended.
Is the booster add-on worth it?
Potenza creates microchannels in the skin, and a booster applied straight afterward can reach deeper than when applied to intact skin. The booster option costs ₩399,000 per session. It may support recovery and hydration, and some people choose it to target texture and glow at the same time. It is optional; the doctor can explain whether it adds value for your skin. Another option is exosome therapy with Potenza, from ₩449,000 at Dernia, which uses an exosome serum after RF microneedling as a supportive treatment. See exosome therapy.
What affects the cost of Potenza?
- Area. Face only costs less than face and neck, which needs more time and passes.
- Number of sessions. The 3-session course lowers the per-session price.
- Add-ons. Boosters or exosomes applied after treatment increase the session price.
- Scar severity. Deeper scars may need more sessions or a combination plan, which affects the total budget rather than the session price.
- VAT. Korean prices are usually quoted before 10% VAT.
When comparing quotes in Seoul, check that the device is genuine Potenza rather than a different RF microneedling system, that the needle tips are new and single-use, and that numbing is included. Ask who performs the treatment. RF microneedling settings need medical judgment, particularly for darker skin and deep scars, so a doctor-led plan matters as much as the device. Our guide to choosing a skin clinic lists more questions to ask.
What can Potenza treat, and how many sessions?
| Concern | Typical sessions | Spacing |
|---|---|---|
| Enlarged pores | 2–3 | 4–6 weeks |
| Rough texture | 2–3 | 4–6 weeks |
| Atrophic acne scars | About 3 or more | 4–6 weeks |
| Active acne (oil-gland mode) | Assessed by doctor | Varies |
These are typical ranges. Deep scars may need more sessions or a combination with other treatments. See acne scar treatments and large pore treatments.
Potenza vs other texture treatments
Potenza sits between gentle lasers and ablative resurfacing. CO2 fractional laser can do more for deep scars but has 5–7 days of downtime; pico fractional is gentler with 1–3 days of redness; Agnes RF targets oil glands precisely for persistent acne. Compare them in CO2 fractional laser vs Potenza and Potenza vs Agnes.
Who is a good candidate for Potenza?
Usually a good fit
- Rolling or boxcar acne scars
- Enlarged pores and rough texture
- Darker skin types, where RF can be gentler on pigment than some lasers
- People who can allow 2–4 days of redness
Talk to the doctor first
- Pacemakers or implanted electronic devices
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active infection, cold sores or severe inflamed acne
- Recent isotretinoin use or a tendency to keloid scars
What happens during a Potenza session
- English consultation. A doctor examines your skin, agrees the goals, sets depth and energy and confirms the price.
- Numbing. Numbing cream is applied for about 30–40 minutes.
- Treatment. The handpiece is passed over the face in sections. You feel pressure, prickling and warmth.
- Soothing. A calming mask or booster is applied, and you receive written aftercare in English.
Downtime, side effects and safety
Redness for two to four days is typical, often with mild swelling and a slightly rough feel. Small pinpoint marks or grid patterns can appear and fade within days. Less common effects include bruising, acne flares and temporary darkening of pigment. Rare risks include infection, prolonged redness, burns and scarring, which is why a doctor sets energy levels carefully. See the Potenza results timeline.
- Avoid makeup for the first 24 hours, or as advised.
- Skip saunas, swimming and intense exercise for two to three days.
- Use gentle skincare and daily sunscreen; pause retinoids for several days.
Flying home? Most people can fly a day or two after Potenza, though redness may still show. Keep skin hydrated on the plane and avoid makeup until advised. Our aftercare guide has details.
Planning Potenza around your Seoul trip
- Treat early. Book in the first part of your stay so redness has settled before photos or flights.
- Avoid your arrival day. Book for day two or later.
- Book ahead. Send photos of your scars or pores and your travel dates through our consultation form.
- Getting here. Dernia is in Myeongdong, near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
Frequently asked questions
How much is Potenza in Korea?
At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, Potenza costs ₩299,000 for a full-face session, ₩399,000 with a booster and ₩799,000 for a 3-session course, excluding VAT.
How many Potenza sessions do I need?
Most people need about three sessions four to six weeks apart. Deep acne scars may need more.
What is the downtime after Potenza?
Expect redness and mild swelling for two to four days. Most people return to light activities the next day.
Does Potenza hurt?
Numbing cream is always used. Most people feel pressure, prickling and warmth that is manageable.
Is Potenza good for acne scars?
It is commonly used for rolling and boxcar acne scars. Results build over a series, and the doctor may combine it with other treatments.
Can I do one Potenza session on a short trip?
Yes. One session can improve texture and pores, though scars usually improve more after a series.
Planning Potenza in Seoul?
Send us photos of your skin and your travel dates. A doctor will recommend a session plan, explain the downtime and confirm the price before treatment.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.