General Dermatology · Apgujeong, Seoul
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
Supervised oral isotretinoin for severe or stubborn acne, with careful monitoring at every step.
General Dermatology · Apgujeong, Seoul
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
Supervised oral isotretinoin for severe or stubborn acne, with careful monitoring at every step.
Quick answer
Medical dermatology at Oaro Dermatology Clinic is led by board-certified dermatologists who diagnose first and treat second. Korean National Health Insurance may apply to covered conditions for insured residents. Meet our doctors or book a same-week appointment .
At a glance
| Procedure time | Initial consultation 30 minutes; monthly reviews 10–15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | Not applicable |
| Downtime | None, though dry lips and skin are expected during the course |
| Sessions | Monthly reviews over a typical 4–8 month course |
| Results last | Many patients remain clear long term after a full course; some need a second course |
| Performed by | Board-certified dermatologist |
Overview
What is isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin is an oral retinoid that reduces oil-gland size and sebum production, normalises the shedding of cells inside pores, lowers the bacteria that drive inflammation and calms the inflammatory response itself. It is the only acne medicine that acts on all four causes at once, which is why it is reserved for severe nodular or cystic acne, acne that scars, acne causing significant distress, and moderate acne that has failed several months of antibiotics and topical therapy.
Because it is a potent medicine, it needs supervision. Expected effects include dry lips, dry skin and eyes, sun sensitivity and sometimes a temporary flare in the first weeks. Blood lipids and liver enzymes can rise, so they are checked before and during treatment. Mood changes have been reported, and your dermatologist will ask about them at every visit. Most importantly, isotretinoin causes serious birth defects: anyone who could become pregnant must use two reliable forms of contraception from one month before until one month after the course and must not be pregnant or breastfeeding. You should also avoid donating blood during and for a month after treatment.
How isotretinoin is prescribed at Oaro
At Oaro Dermatology Clinic in Apgujeong, Seoul, a board-certified dermatologist first confirms that isotretinoin is the right step, having considered alternatives and your medical history. Baseline blood tests and, where relevant, a pregnancy test are completed before the first prescription. The dose is calculated by body weight and often started low to limit the early flare, then adjusted monthly; a cumulative target dose guides the length of the course. Reviews in Apgujeong cover side effects, blood results and acne photographs. Supportive care runs alongside: a barrier-friendly routine for oily skin that becomes dry, and planning for post-acne marks or pore and scar treatment once the course is finished and the recommended waiting period has passed.
Why patients choose Oaro
- Board-certified dermatologists for medical and cosmetic skin care under one roof
- Dermoscopy, allergy and scalp assessment before any prescription
- Written treatment plan, home-care guidance and follow-up
- Private rooms in Cheongdam Tower, 8 minutes from Apgujeong Rodeo Station
- English-friendly coordination for visitors and expats
Treatment goals
Common goals for isotretinoin treatment
Clear severe or stubborn acne
A full course aims for durable clearance where other treatments have failed.
Prevent new scars
Stopping deep inflammatory lesions early limits permanent scarring and pigmentation.
Keep treatment safe
Scheduled blood tests, pregnancy prevention and side-effect checks are built into every course.
Plan what comes next
Scar, pore and pigmentation treatments are mapped out for the months after the course ends.
Your visit
What to expect
1. Consultation & diagnosis
Your dermatologist grades the acne, reviews previous treatments, medicines, mental health history and pregnancy plans, and explains the benefits and risks. Baseline blood tests for lipids and liver function, and a pregnancy test where applicable, are arranged.
2. Treatment
A weight-based dose is prescribed, usually taken with a meal containing fat for absorption. At Oaro Dermatology Clinic you return monthly for a side-effect check, photographs, repeat blood tests at the intervals your doctor sets, monthly pregnancy testing where relevant, and the next prescription. The dose is adjusted until the course reaches its target.
3. Aftercare & follow-up
After the course, contraception continues for one month and waxing, dermabrasion and ablative lasers are deferred for about six months. A review at three to six months checks for relapse and plans any scar treatment.
Cost & insurance
Isotretinoin treatment cost in Seoul
In Korea, acne medication is often classified as non-covered even for insured residents, although consultation and monitoring blood tests may be partly covered when a medical indication is recorded; your dermatologist will explain what applies. Visitors pay self-pay rates and receive itemised receipts.
| Option | Typical range (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Initial consultation (self-pay) | 30,000–60,000 |
| Isotretinoin, per month of medication | 50,000–150,000 |
| Monitoring blood tests, per set | 50,000–120,000 |
| Monthly review visit | 20,000–50,000 |
Exact pricing is confirmed at consultation after examination.
Home care
Aftercare
- Apply lip balm many times a day and a bland moisturiser morning and night; use eye drops if your eyes feel dry.
- Wear SPF 50 sunscreen daily and avoid sunbeds; the skin burns more easily on isotretinoin.
- Do not take vitamin A supplements, tetracycline antibiotics or share your tablets with anyone.
- Use two forms of contraception if you could become pregnant, and tell the clinic immediately if a period is missed.
- Avoid waxing, peels and resurfacing lasers during the course and for six months afterwards; report mood changes or severe headache promptly.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Chang-hyun Kim, M.D.
Board-certified dermatologist and Representative Director of Oaro Dermatology Clinic, Cheongdam. Full member of the Korean Dermatological Association, the Korean Society of Atopic Dermatitis, the Korean Society of Vitiligo & Pigmentation and the Korean Society of Acne & Rosacea.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is Accutane the same as isotretinoin?
Yes. Accutane was a brand name; the generic medicine isotretinoin is what is prescribed today under various brand names in Korea.
How long is a course?
Usually four to eight months, depending on body weight, dose and how quickly the acne clears.
Can I take isotretinoin if I might become pregnant?
Only with two reliable contraceptive methods and regular pregnancy tests, because the drug causes severe birth defects. It must never be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Will my acne come back afterwards?
Many people stay clear for years after a full course; a minority need a second course or maintenance topical therapy.
Can I start isotretinoin as a visitor to Seoul?
Monthly monitoring is essential, so it is best suited to people staying several months or able to continue supervision with a dermatologist at home.
Explore related care
Related conditions and treatments
- Medical Dermatology — the full range of medical skin care at Oaro
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation — fading the marks acne leaves behind
- Enlarged Pores — pore refinement after acne settles
- Oily Skin — managing sebum without isotretinoin
- LED Light Therapy — gentle support for inflamed skin
- Contact & Booking — book an acne consultation in Apgujeong
Same-week appointments
See a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Bring your questions, medication list and any photos of flare-ups. We will examine your skin, explain the diagnosis and give you a written plan. English-speaking coordinators are available for international patients and expats.