The staff via whatsapp was friendly and responsive to accommodate last min change request to my appointment. The place was clean and comfortable and the lady doctor was helpful to suggest what’s good for me based on my needs. I find the procedures reasonably priced as there were some promotional offers. I managed to get there by 5.30pm for a last consultation and finished my treatments by 7:30pm (clinic closes at 7pm) yet besides the lady doctor who performed the procedures, the lady assistant who helped to clean and prep my face and the male interpreter who stayed with her to explain in English to me step by step what she’s doing— were patient and thorough, I didn’t feel rushed at all. I feel very pampered. I’ll certainly come back again the next time I’m in Seoul!
2 months agoHow Excel V Works on Pigment and Melasma
Last updated:
Excel V is a laser often mentioned for sun spots and uneven skin tone, and many people with melasma ask whether it can help them too. The short version is that Excel V's light is absorbed by pigment, which is why it is used for sun spots, but melasma behaves differently and needs a more careful plan. This page explains how the laser works, how sun spots and melasma differ, and what to ask before treatment.
The short answer
Excel V uses a 532 nm wavelength that is absorbed by pigment, so it is used for sun spots and some uneven pigment. Melasma is different: it can last for years and can return, especially with sun exposure. For melasma, a laser is at most one part of a plan that also includes sun protection and other treatment chosen by a dermatologist. It is not a one-time cure.
How Excel V works
Excel V is a laser made by Cutera that combines two wavelengths, 532 nm (green light) and 1064 nm. Each wavelength is absorbed by different targets in the skin. The 532 nm light is absorbed by pigment and by blood vessels; the 1064 nm light is absorbed by blood vessels. When the light is absorbed, it turns into heat, which breaks down the target. Contact cooling on the skin surface is used during treatment to help with comfort.
Sun spots and melasma are not the same
| Point | Sun spots | Melasma |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Pigment spots linked to sun exposure | Patches of pigment that can last for years |
| How it behaves | Spots on sun-exposed skin | Sunlight can darken existing patches and cause new ones |
| Role of Excel V | One of the uses listed for its 532 nm wavelength | May be considered as one part of a wider plan |
| Key step first | Doctor confirms the spot type | Dermatologist confirms the diagnosis |
Melasma can look like other skin conditions, so the type of pigment needs to be confirmed by a doctor before any laser is chosen.
Why melasma needs a careful approach
Melasma does not usually go away after a single treatment. Sunlight makes the skin produce more pigment, which can darken existing melasma and bring new patches, so sun protection is the foundation of any melasma plan. Dermatology guidance describes laser and light treatments as something that can improve results when added to medication and sun protection, not as a replacement for them.
Not every pigment laser approach suits melasma, which is why the diagnosis and the plan come before the device. Your doctor decides whether Excel V has a place in your plan and how it is used.
Protecting your skin from the sun
Whether or not you have laser treatment, daily sun protection helps fade melasma and keep it from returning. That means a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 applied throughout the day, plus shade and a wide-brimmed hat when you are outdoors. Ask your doctor about any extra sun precautions after treatment.
Sessions, downtime and who should wait
Session length, how many sessions you need, what your skin looks like afterward and the reasons to wait all depend on what is being treated and on your skin. Ask your doctor for these details during the consultation, and mention your medical history and any medication you take.
If you are also weighing lifting, see how XERF and Excel V differ.
Getting a plan at Dami Skin Clinic
At Dami Skin Clinic in Yeouido, the doctor examines your skin to confirm what kind of pigment you have before recommending a treatment. English-fluent coordinators and interpretation support are available for international patients, so the diagnosis, the plan and the aftercare can be explained in a language you are comfortable with.
To have your pigment assessed, request a visit through the consultation page or message the clinic on WhatsApp.
FAQ
Can Excel V treat melasma?+
Excel V may be considered as one part of a melasma plan, but it is not a cure. Melasma can last for years and can return, so sun protection and other treatment chosen by a dermatologist are part of the plan.
Is Excel V used for sun spots?+
Yes. Its 532 nm wavelength is absorbed by pigment, and sun spots are one of the uses listed for the laser.
Can a laser make melasma worse?+
Not every pigment laser approach suits melasma, which is why a dermatologist confirms the diagnosis and plans the treatment before any laser is used.
How many sessions will I need?+
It depends on the type of pigment and your skin. Your doctor will recommend a plan after examining you.
Is there downtime?+
What your skin looks like afterward depends on what is being treated. Ask your doctor what to expect for your skin before booking.
Do I still need sunscreen afterward?+
Yes. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 helps fade melasma and keep pigment from returning, with or without laser treatment.
Book a Consultation
Ready to find out what kind of pigment you have and how to treat it? Dami Skin Clinic's consultation includes:
- Personalized skin assessment
- Custom lifting & skin booster plan review
- Multilingual coordinator support
Address: 9th Floor, ILEX Tower, 375 Yeouidaebang-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (near Saetgang Station)
Phone: +82-2-364-3323
WhatsApp: message the clinic on WhatsApp
Website: damiseoulskinclinic.com
Instagram: @damiclinic_yeouido
What Our Customers Say
While getting ready for my wedding, I started looking into different skin treatments and ended up getting a skin booster injection along with Pico toning. My skin is naturally very thin and sensitive, so I was worried because it tends to react easily if a treatment doesn't suit me. But they carefully checked my skin condition first during the consultation, which made me feel a lot more comfortable. There was a little redness on the day of the treatment, but once I put on makeup the next day, it was barely noticeable. I was especially happy during my wedding photoshoot because my makeup went on so well My skin just looked healthy and fresh without needing heavy coverage!
2 months agoLove this Clinic! My husband got lifting and his skin looks amazing now, plus they have some snaks and English translator for your consultation 🫶🏻.
9 months agoVisited here two times, I have a good experience here. Having a doctor consultation every time before treatments to make sure the most suitable treatments for me. Mr. Kim is very helpful and kind helping me with english communication. 🥰
2 weeks agoI recently visited Dami Clinic and had a really great experience! The staff were extremely kind and welcoming, which made me feel very comfortable from the beginning. The doctor was not only kind but also very professional, explaining everything clearly and carefully. I especially enjoyed my Sylfirm X treatment, which helps with redness and pores. The whole process was smooth. I would definitely recommend Dami Clinic to anyone looking for professional skin care with a warm and friendly atmosphere! 🌸
11 months agoWhat are you interested in:
Working Hours:
Monday/Wednesday/Thursday : 10:00 – 19:00
Tuesday/Friday : 10:00 – 21:00
Saturday : 10:00 – 15:00
Lunch Break : 13:00 – 14:00
Last appointment is one hour before closing.
When using the subway
From Saetgang Station (Line 9 or Sillim Line)
Walk straight out of Exit 2 until you reach a corner. It is the building on the other side of the street on your left. Got to the black door on the left of the Mammoth Coffee place and go up to 9TH FLOOR.