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Acne, Scars & Pores
Potenza RF Microneedling in Seoul for Pores, Acne and Texture
Quick answer
Potenza is a radiofrequency microneedling system that delivers RF energy through fine needles at adjustable depths to stimulate collagen, refine pores and improve acne-prone skin and scars. At The Heal in Jamsil, Seoul, a dermatologist selects Potenza's needle type, depth and RF mode for your skin. Expect a few days of redness. Send photos on KakaoTalk for a plan before you fly.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa , board-certified dermatologist · Updated October 2026
Procedure time
30–45 min incl. numbing
Downtime
1–3 days of redness
Results visible
4–12 weeks
Sessions
Usually 3+
What is Potenza?
Potenza is an RF microneedling platform made by Cynosure. Insulated or non-insulated microneedles enter the skin to a set depth and release radiofrequency energy at the tip. The heat triggers a wound-healing response that builds new collagen and elastin, while the tiny needle channels themselves add a mechanical renewal effect.
What makes Potenza versatile is its range of modes. It can deliver energy in monopolar or bipolar configurations and at different frequencies, letting the doctor choose between deeper volumetric heating and more superficial, concentrated treatment. Different tip types are available for acne-prone skin, scars, pores and general rejuvenation.
What can Potenza treat?
- Enlarged pores and oily skin: heat around the follicle helps tighten the surrounding tissue — see pore tightening
- Acne-prone skin: selected tips target the level of the oil glands as part of acne treatment
- Acne scars: collagen remodelling softens shallow boxcar and rolling scars, often combined with other methods in our acne scar treatment
- Rough texture and fine lines: gradual firming and smoothing of the skin surface
Potenza is a skin-quality treatment, not a lifting device. For sagging, see our lifting options instead. The doctor confirms which concern to prioritize first if you have several.
Who is a good candidate?
Potenza suits adults who want smoother texture, smaller-looking pores or improvement in acne and shallow scarring, and who can accept a few days of redness. Because energy is delivered beneath the surface, it is often considered for a wider range of skin tones than aggressive surface lasers, with settings adjusted accordingly.
Treatment is not recommended during pregnancy, over active infections or cold sores, on open wounds, or for people with a pacemaker or certain implanted electronic devices. Tell the doctor if you have recently taken oral isotretinoin, form keloid scars, or have metal implants in the treatment area.
Treatment day and recovery
Numbing cream is applied for around 30 to 40 minutes. The treatment itself takes about 15 to 30 minutes for the full face; most people feel prickling and warmth. Afterward, skin looks pink and may show tiny grid marks, with mild swelling for a day or two.
You can usually wear light makeup after 24 hours if the doctor agrees. Use a gentle moisturizer and sunscreen, and avoid saunas, strenuous exercise and active ingredients like retinoids for a few days. Results develop over the following weeks as collagen remodels. A course of around three sessions, four weeks apart, is common, and results vary. Flying the next day is generally fine; if you are visiting for a few days, share your travel dates with us so treatment lands early in your stay.
Potenza or Secret RF?
Both are RF microneedling devices, and both stimulate collagen beneath the surface. The doctor chooses between them based on your main concern, skin thickness, sensitivity and the depth that needs treatment. Potenza's multiple modes and tip options make it flexible for active acne and mixed concerns, while Secret RF is often chosen for focused pore and scar work.
In practice, the device matters less than the plan around it. Some patients alternate devices across a course or combine RF microneedling with boosters, lasers or skin Botox for a more complete result.
The Heal approach
We use Potenza's different modes deliberately, adjusting tip, depth and energy by zone so oily T-zones, scarred cheeks and delicate areas each get appropriate settings.
Expert review
Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa
Medical Director · Board-certified dermatologist · Seoul National University College of Medicine
Written for international patients and reviewed for medical accuracy. Individual results vary; your plan is decided in person after a skin assessment. Our review policy
Visit us
The Heal Dermatology Clinic Jamsil
4F, 329 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Korea
5 min walk from Jamsil Station (Line 8), Exit 9
Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00
Tue–Thu 10:00–19:30
Sat 09:30–16:00 · Sun & holidays closed
International patients
Visiting Seoul? Get your plan before you fly.
English consultations with a board-certified dermatologist, 5 minutes from Jamsil Station. Treatments are scheduled around your downtime and flights. International patient guide
1
Message us
Concerns, optional photos and travel dates via form or KakaoTalk.
2
Get your plan
Suggested treatments and timing around your flights.
3
Consult & treat
In-person assessment with Dr. Yang in English, then treatment.
Frequently asked
Potenza RF Microneedling: your questions answered
Does Potenza hurt?
Numbing cream makes treatment tolerable for most people. You will feel prickling, pressure and heat, especially over bony areas. The doctor can adjust settings if a zone feels too intense.
When can I fly after Potenza?
Flying the next day is generally fine, as there is no open wound. Expect mild redness and dryness, so keep skin moisturized and protected from sun during travel.
How many Potenza sessions do I need?
Many patients have around three sessions about four weeks apart, though deeper scars or very oily, acne-prone skin may need more. The doctor reviews your progress at each visit.
Can Potenza be done on active acne?
Certain settings are designed for acne-prone skin, but heavily inflamed or infected areas may need medication first. The doctor decides based on how active your breakouts are on the day.
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English consultations in Jamsil, Seoul
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