In the Realm of Skincare, Where Are the Dermatologists?

Korea’s skin care industry is booming, with a significant influx of international patients seeking cosmetic procedures. However, many local clinics are not equipped or willing to handle medical dermatology cases. Patients like Im and Kim report being turned away for medical skin issues, as these clinics primarily focus on cosmetic treatments, which are more profitable and not covered by national insurance.

A survey revealed that over half of dermatology clinics in a Seoul district couldn’t treat basic conditions like hives, highlighting the industry’s focus on cosmetics. This situation is exacerbated by the presence of many clinics run by non-board-certified specialists, often misleading patients about their qualifications.

Consumer groups and professional associations are calling for policy changes, such as better reimbursement rates for medical dermatology and stricter regulations on clinic advertising. They suggest implementing certification systems to help patients identify qualified dermatologists.

In the absence of immediate reforms, they advise patients to verify doctors’ credentials carefully before seeking treatment.