South Korea’s Potenza, also known as Gold RF Microneedling, has become a highly discussed anti-aging treatment in the Chinese-speaking community in recent years. POTENZA and Scarlet S are the two most frequently mentioned equipment platforms for this treatment. The problem is that the prices quoted by different clinics online vary greatly, ranging from over 100,000 South Korean won to nearly one million South Korean won. So, which price range is considered reasonable? In this article, I personally visited six clinics in Gangnam and Myeongdong to compile detailed information on the specific treatments and their fees, and to help everyone avoid the most common pitfalls associated with low prices.
The principle of Potenza is to use these tiny needles to deliver radiofrequency energy directly into the dermis, while simultaneously creating controlled micro-traumas that stimulate the production of new Collagen and elastin. Compared to traditional radiofrequency treatments or HIFU, Potenza’s advantage lies in its ability to precisely control the depth and intensity of the treatment, resulting in excellent improvements for acne scars, Pores, and fine lines. However, precisely because this technology requires a certain level of expertise, there are significant differences in the quality of services and pricing standards among different clinics. This is also the reason why I felt it was necessary to write this hands-on review article.
📊 The fundamental differences between POTENZA and red radio waves, as well as recommendations for making a choice
POTENZA is an RF microneedling system developed by the American company Candela. It offers a variety of probe options (insulated/non-insulated, monopolar/bipolar), allowing for parameter adjustments to suit different skin layers and issues. The greatest advantage of POTENZA lies in its “layered treatment” approach: it allows you to customize the needle length and energy level according to your specific skin concerns, resulting in more comprehensive improvements for complex problems such as acne scars, Pores, and fine lines.
Scarlet S is a South Korean-owned brand with a high market share in South Korea. Its user interface is more familiar to local physicians. The greatest advantage of Scarlet S lies in its “cost-performance ratio”. There is an abundance of clinical data from South Korea, and most Dermatology doctors there are well-versed in this technology, possessing extensive operational experience. Additionally, its price remains relatively stable.
Simply put, if you have more complex skin issues and have a sufficient budget, POTENZA offers greater flexibility. If this is your first time trying radiofrequency microneedling and you want to test the effects first, or if your budget is limited, red light therapy is a good starting point. However, the final decision should still be based on your skin condition and the results you expect to achieve. It is recommended that you discuss these details in detail with the clinic director during your consultation.
💰 Detailed price quotes from clinics in Gangnam/Myeongdong (based on actual measurements in April 2026)
The prices listed below are those I obtained through personal inquiries or by contacting the BeautsGO customer service. They are for reference only; the actual fees shall be subject to the rates quoted by the respective institutions.
POTENZA full-face treatment (1 session): Approximately 350,000 to 550,000 Korean won. The difference in cost mainly depends on the number of probes used (usually 400-600 probes for a full-face treatment) and whether post-treatment sedation is included. Some clinics also offer additional services such as post-treatment mask care and restorative serums, and these additional costs should also be taken into consideration when calculating the total price.
Red Wave Full-Face Treatment (1 session): Approximately 250,000 to 450,000 Korean won. Institutions in Gangnam, Seoul, generally charge 10-20% more than those in Myeongdong. However, some institutions in Gangnam offer sedative masks or post-treatment care packages, while some in Myeongdong provide more affordable options. If it is your first time undergoing this treatment, it is recommended to choose a package that includes post-treatment care, as proper after-care plays a crucial role in achieving the desired results.
The logic behind the choice between Gangnam and Myeongdong: Institutions in Gangnam generally have more experienced directors, but their services are more expensive; in Myeongdong, due to the large number of tourists, some institutions have specifically designed fast-track treatment packages suitable for those with limited time. If you plan to stay for an extended period and prioritize results, Gangnam is the better option; if you are just passing through Myeongdong, you might want to consider institutions with a better cost-performance ratio. However, it is important to note that some institutions in Myeongdong focus mainly on attracting tourists, so the quality of their services can vary greatly – be extra careful when making your choice.
🔍 Three common pitfalls in the high-priced medical beauty industry and ways to avoid them
Trap 1: The initial fee is low, but additional costs are hidden. Some clinics only list the “instrument rental fee” in their prices; in reality, additional charges for probes, anesthesia, and sedation management will be added, resulting in a total cost that may be twice as high as what is advertised. It is recommended to ask clearly before making an appointment about the “total cost of the full-face treatment including anesthesia and sedation management,” rather than relying solely on the “starting price” listed on the clinic’s website. If a clinic is unwilling to provide a complete quote, you should be alert.
Trap 2: Reduced number of injections. The typical number of Potenza injections for a full face treatment ranges from 400 to 600. Some low-cost clinics only administer 200 to 300 injections, resulting in significantly reduced effectiveness. It is advisable to ask the clinic directly how many injections will be used for a full face treatment; if they are vague in their response, you should be alert. Insufficient numbers of injections not only affect the outcome but may also require more frequent follow-up treatments, which is not cost-effective in the long run.
Trap 3: Non-original probes. Both POTENZA and Red Wave are available in the South Korea parallel import market, and there is a risk of using recycled or non-original probes. It is recommended to choose a BeautsGO-certified clinic and verify the integrity of the probe packaging before the treatment. If the packaging has been opened, you should raise doubts immediately. The performance and safety of original probes differ significantly from those of recycled ones; do not attempt to save money at the expense of quality.
In addition to these three situations, another common scenario is that the treatment is performed by a nurse rather than the director of the clinic. The energy settings and the depth of insertion of the radiofrequency microneedles both affect the effectiveness of the treatment. An experienced clinic director can adjust the parameters in real-time based on your skin’s reaction, something that a nurse is unable to do. Before making an appointment, be sure to confirm whether the treatment will actually be performed by the director personally; do not let vague statements such as “under the director’s supervision” mislead you.
💡 My practical recommendations and comprehensive treatment plans
If you have a sufficient budget and your skin issues are relatively complex (a combination of acne scars, Pores, and fine lines), it is recommended to use POTENZA with more than 500 hairs applied to the entire face, in conjunction with a treatment package that includes soothing and calming effects. Clinics in the Gangnam area that charge around 450,000 to 550,000 Korean won for this service are generally reliable.
If the main goals are to treat Pores and achieve mild anti-aging effects, red light therapy offers a better cost-performance ratio. Clinics in Gangnam or Myeongdong that charge around 300,000 to 400,000 Korean won for such treatments are worth considering.
One final reminder: The effects of Potenza usually become apparent gradually 4 to 6 weeks after the treatment. Do not rush to schedule additional sessions just because you do not see any results in the short term; give your skin a proper recovery period first. It is generally recommended to complete 3 sessions as a full treatment course, with each session spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. If your budget is limited, you can start with just one session and decide whether to continue based on the results you observe.
Postoperative care is also extremely important: avoid wearing makeup and engaging in strenuous exercise during the first 3 days; enhance sun protection and moisturization throughout the week; and refrain from using skincare products that contain alcohol or acids. Proper adherence to these care measures will help ensure that the results last longer.
✅ Summary of tips to avoid pitfalls: How to find institutions with reasonable prices and high quality services
Remember these three key figures: The number of effective hairs implanted across the entire face should be no less than 400; the total cost, including anesthesia and sedation, must not exceed 150% of the amount stated on the official website of the clinic; choosing a BeautsGO-certified clinic can help reduce risks.
If it is your first time undergoing Potenza treatment, it is recommended to start with a relatively conservative number of sessions. After observing how your skin reacts, you can then decide whether to increase the number of sessions instead of trying too much at once. The better you maintain moisture and protect your skin from the sun after the treatment, the longer the effects will last. Also, do not overlook the importance of daily skincare routines; instrumental treatments are merely supplementary – good living habits and skincare practices are what truly matter.
If you would like to inquire about the current prices of certified clinics in Gangnam or Myeongdong provided by BeautsGO, you can contact WeChat user s-sourire for assistance. They can recommend suitable clinics based on your requirements. Professional consultation and the right choice of clinic are crucial for a successful cosmetic treatment experience.
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