PRP Skin Rejuvenation in Korea: Vampire Facial Guide, Prices & Clinics 2025

If you've heard whispers about the "vampire facial" and wondered what all the buzz is about, you're in the right place. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) skin rejuvenation has become one of Korea's most sought-after treatments for those seeking natural-looking skin improvements without synthetic fillers or aggressive procedures.

Known locally as "피주사" (pi-jusa, meaning "blood injection"), PRP treatment harnesses your body's own healing powers to rejuvenate your skin from within. International visitors flock to Seoul's advanced dermatology clinics for this innovative treatment, attracted by both the competitive pricing and Korea's reputation for cutting-edge skincare technology.

What is PRP Skin Rejuvenation?

PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma, a concentration of platelets derived from your own blood. The treatment earned its "vampire facial" nickname because it involves drawing your blood, processing it, and then reinjecting the platelet-rich portion back into your skin.

But don't let the dramatic name fool you—this is a scientifically-backed treatment that's been used in medical fields for decades. Korean dermatologists have refined the technique specifically for cosmetic applications, making it one of the most effective natural skin rejuvenation treatments available.

The Science Behind PRP

Your blood contains platelets, which are rich in growth factors and proteins that promote healing and tissue regeneration. When concentrated and injected into your skin, these growth factors:

• Stimulate collagen and elastin production
• Promote new skin cell growth
• Improve blood circulation to the treated area
• Accelerate natural healing processes
• Enhance overall skin quality and texture

The beauty of PRP is that it's completely natural—using your own biological materials means virtually no risk of allergic reactions or rejection.

How Does PRP Treatment Work?

Understanding the process can help ease any concerns you might have. Here's what happens during a typical PRP treatment session at a Korean clinic:

Step 1: Blood Draw

A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm, similar to a routine blood test. Most clinics draw between 10-20ml of blood, which is all that's needed for facial treatment.

Step 2: Centrifugation

Your blood is placed in a centrifuge machine that spins at high speed for several minutes. This process separates the blood into different components based on density:

• Red blood cells (bottom layer)
• Platelet-rich plasma (middle layer)
• Platelet-poor plasma (top layer)

Step 3: PRP Extraction

The concentrated platelet-rich plasma is carefully extracted. This golden-colored liquid contains 3-5 times more platelets than normal blood, packed with growth factors.

Step 4: Preparation

Before injection, the treatment area is thoroughly cleansed and a topical numbing cream is applied. Most clinics allow 20-30 minutes for the numbing to take effect, ensuring your comfort during the procedure.

Step 5: Injection

The PRP is injected into targeted areas of your face using very fine needles. Practitioners use precise techniques to deliver the plasma where it will be most effective—typically in areas with fine lines, wrinkles, scarring, or overall skin quality concerns.

Step 6: Aftercare

The entire process typically takes 60-90 minutes from start to finish. You'll receive specific aftercare instructions, but most people can return to normal activities immediately.

Benefits and Expected Results

One of the reasons PRP has gained such popularity in Korea is its impressive range of benefits. Unlike treatments that simply fill or freeze problem areas, PRP actually improves your skin's fundamental health.

Immediate to Short-Term Benefits (1-4 Weeks)

• Natural Glow: Many patients notice a healthier, more radiant complexion within the first week
• Improved Texture: Skin feels smoother and softer to the touch
• Reduced Inflammation: Any underlying redness or irritation often calms down
• Better Hydration: Enhanced moisture retention leads to plumper-looking skin

Medium-Term Results (1-3 Months)

This is when you'll see the most dramatic improvements as collagen production kicks into high gear:

• Wrinkle Reduction: Fine lines soften, and deeper wrinkles appear less pronounced
• Firmer Skin: Increased elastin production leads to noticeably tighter, more lifted skin
• Pore Minimization: Enlarged pores shrink as skin texture improves
• Scar Improvement: Acne scars and other depressions begin to fill in naturally
• Even Skin Tone: Dark spots, sun damage, and pigmentation become more uniform

Long-Term Benefits (3-6 Months)

With proper maintenance, PRP can deliver lasting improvements:

• Sustained Collagen Production: Effects can last 6-12 months or longer
• Preventative Aging: Regular treatments can slow the aging process
• Cumulative Results: Effects build with multiple sessions
• Overall Skin Health: Your skin's baseline quality improves permanently

Who Benefits Most from PRP?

PRP works exceptionally well for:

• Early signs of aging (fine lines, loss of elasticity)
• Acne scarring and textural irregularities
• Sun damage and hyperpigmentation
• Dull, tired-looking skin
• Enlarged pores
• Under-eye hollows and dark circles
• Post-procedure healing enhancement

PRP Treatment Prices in Korea 2025

One of the biggest advantages of getting PRP treatment in Korea is the exceptional value. Korean clinics offer world-class care at prices significantly lower than Western countries.

Price Comparison Table

Prices as of January 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 ≈ $1 USD. Actual costs may vary by clinic, treatment area, and additional services.

Package Deals

Most Korean clinics offer package deals that provide better value:

• 3 Session Package: Typically 10-20% discount (recommended for best results)
• 5 Session Package: Typically 15-25% discount (ideal for significant concerns)
• Combination Packages: PRP paired with laser treatments or other procedures at discounted rates

What's Included in the Price?

Korean clinics typically include:

• Initial consultation
• Blood draw and processing
• Topical anesthesia
• The PRP injection procedure
• Immediate post-treatment care
• Follow-up consultation (within 1-2 weeks)

Not usually included:

• Additional skin treatments on the same day
• Premium PRP kits or advanced processing methods
• Medications or special aftercare products

Best Clinics for PRP Treatment in Seoul

Seoul's Gangnam, Sinsa, and Apgujeong neighborhoods are home to some of the world's most advanced dermatology clinics. Here are some areas known for excellent PRP treatments:

Gangnam District

The epicenter of Korean medical aesthetics, Gangnam offers numerous clinics specializing in PRP:

• English Support: Most major clinics have English-speaking staff
• Price Range: Mid to premium ($100-$300+ per session)
• Specialization: Advanced PRP techniques, combination treatments
• Accessibility: Near Gangnam Station (Lines 2, Shinbundang)

Sinsa-dong / Apgujeong

Known for boutique clinics with personalized service:

• Atmosphere: More intimate, less clinical feel
• Price Range: $80-$250 per session
• Specialization: Natural-looking results, celebrity clientele
• Accessibility: Apgujeong Station (Line 3), Sinsa Station (Line 3)

Key Clinic Features to Look For

When choosing a clinic for PRP treatment:

✅ Certifications: Board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons ✅ Sterile Processing: FDA-approved or equivalent PRP processing systems ✅ Experience: Clinics performing hundreds of PRP treatments monthly ✅ English Support: Essential for international patients ✅ Portfolio: Before/after photos of actual patients ✅ Transparent Pricing: Clear price lists without hidden fees

What to Expect During Your PRP Treatment

Before Your Appointment

1-2 Weeks Before:

• Avoid blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen) unless prescribed
• Stop taking vitamin E and fish oil supplements
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
• Stay well-hydrated

Day Of:

• Eat a full meal before your appointment (helps with blood draw)
• Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face
• Bring sunscreen and a hat for after treatment
• Avoid caffeine (can increase sensitivity)

During Treatment

Most patients report that PRP is less uncomfortable than expected. Here's what you'll feel:

• Blood Draw: Similar to any blood test—a quick pinch
• Waiting Period: 20-30 minutes for numbing cream to work (you can relax in the waiting area)
• Injections: With numbing, most people feel only slight pressure and occasional pinching
• Duration: The actual injection process takes 15-20 minutes

Immediately After

Your face may look:

• Red and slightly swollen (like a mild sunburn)
• Have small injection marks
• Feel tender to the touch
• Slightly bruised in some areas (less common)

These effects are temporary and normal—they actually indicate your skin is responding to the treatment.

Recovery Timeline

Day 1-2:

• Redness and swelling peak, then begin subsiding
• Avoid makeup, intense exercise, and sun exposure
• Cleanse gently with mild products
• Sleep with head elevated to reduce swelling

Day 3-5:

• Most visible side effects resolve
• You can return to normal skincare and makeup
• Skin may feel slightly tight or dry

Week 1-2:

• Skin begins looking fresher and more radiant
• Texture starts improving
• Initial results become noticeable

Week 4-12:

• Collagen production accelerates
• Progressive improvement in skin quality
• Peak results typically visible at 3 months

Post-Treatment Care

Do:

• Keep skin clean and moisturized
• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily
• Drink plenty of water
• Use gentle, fragrance-free products
• Follow your clinic's specific aftercare instructions

Don't:

• Touch or massage treated areas for 24 hours
• Exercise heavily for 24-48 hours
• Use retinoids or harsh actives for 3-5 days
• Have facial treatments for 1-2 weeks
• Expose skin to extreme heat (saunas, hot yoga) for 1 week

PRP vs. Other Korean Skin Treatments

Wondering how PRP compares to other popular Korean treatments?

PRP's Unique Advantages:

• Uses your own biology (no foreign substances)
• Addresses multiple concerns simultaneously
• Builds long-term improvement (not just temporary)
• Extremely low risk of adverse reactions
• Can be combined with other treatments

Many Korean dermatologists recommend PRP as a foundation treatment, often combining it with lasers, micro-needling, or skin boosters for enhanced results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is PRP treatment painful? A: With topical numbing cream, most patients rate discomfort at 2-3 out of 10. The blood draw is typically more noticeable than the injections themselves. Korean clinics are excellent at keeping patients comfortable throughout the procedure.

Q: How many PRP sessions do I need? A: For optimal results, most dermatologists recommend 3-4 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart initially, followed by maintenance treatments every 6-12 months. However, even a single session can produce noticeable improvements.

Q: Can I get PRP if I'm only visiting Korea for a short time? A: Yes! Many international visitors get one or two sessions during their trip. While multiple sessions yield better results, even a single treatment provides benefits. Some visitors schedule one session at the beginning of their trip and a second toward the end.

Q: Are there any side effects or risks? A: Because PRP uses your own blood, serious side effects are extremely rare. The most common effects are temporary redness, swelling, and mild bruising at injection sites. These typically resolve within 2-5 days. People with blood disorders, active infections, or on blood-thinning medications may not be candidates.

Q: How long do PRP results last? A: Results typically peak at 3 months and can last 6-12 months or longer. Because PRP stimulates your body's natural collagen production, some improvements may be permanent. Regular maintenance treatments (1-2 times per year) help sustain and build upon results.

Q: Can I combine PRP with other treatments? A: Absolutely! PRP works exceptionally well in combination with:

• Micro-needling or laser treatments (PRP applied immediately after enhances healing)
• Skin boosters like Rejuran (addresses different aspects of skin health)
• Light chemical peels (with appropriate spacing)
• LED therapy (often offered immediately after PRP)

Korean clinics often create customized treatment plans combining multiple modalities for optimal results.

Q: Is PRP suitable for all skin types? A: Yes! One of PRP's greatest advantages is that it works for all skin types and tones. Because it uses your own blood, there's no risk of hyperpigmentation or other issues that can affect darker skin tones with some laser treatments.

Q: How do I book a PRP treatment in Korea? A: Many Seoul clinics accept online bookings through their websites or medical tourism platforms. You can also book through apps like KakaoTalk or Naver. Most major clinics in Gangnam have English-speaking coordinators who can assist with booking and answer questions.

Conclusion: Is PRP Treatment in Korea Worth It?

PRP skin rejuvenation represents the perfect intersection of natural beauty enhancement and advanced medical technology—exactly what Korean skincare is famous for. Whether you're dealing with early signs of aging, acne scars, uneven texture, or simply want to maintain healthy, radiant skin, PRP offers a scientifically-proven solution using your body's own healing mechanisms.

The combination of Korea's competitive pricing ($70-$250 vs. $500-$1,500+ elsewhere), cutting-edge techniques, and experienced practitioners makes Seoul an ideal destination for PRP treatment. You'll get the same high-quality care at a fraction of the cost you'd pay in Western countries, often with shorter wait times and more personalized attention.

Ready to experience PRP skin rejuvenation in Korea? Research clinics in your preferred Seoul neighborhood, check reviews, and don't hesitate to reach out with questions before booking. Most clinics offer free consultations where you can discuss your specific concerns and goals.

Your journey to healthier, more radiant skin could be just one vampire facial away.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about PRP skin rejuvenation treatment. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical consultation. PRP treatment results vary by individual, and not all candidates may be suitable for this procedure. Always consult with a qualified, board-certified dermatologist or medical professional before undergoing any cosmetic or medical procedure. Discuss your complete medical history, current medications, and specific concerns with your practitioner. The prices and information provided are estimates based on January 2025 data and may change.

Last Updated: January 6, 2025 Reading Time: 12 minutes