What it is
The Excimer Laser 308nm is a dermatological treatment that uses a specific wavelength of ultraviolet B (UVB) light — 308 nanometers — to target and treat skin conditions. Unlike broad-band phototherapy, which exposes large skin areas, the excimer laser allows precise, localized delivery of UVB light. This makes it highly effective for treating small, resistant patches without affecting healthy surrounding tissue.
Why it’s done
The excimer laser is chosen because it offers:
- Targeted therapy → Only diseased skin receives UV exposure.
- Faster results → Improvement is seen with fewer sessions compared to traditional phototherapy.
- Repigmentation support → Activates melanocytes in vitiligo to restore natural color.
- Anti-inflammatory action → Clears psoriasis plaques and reduces itching.
- Non-systemic alternative → Useful for patients who cannot tolerate systemic medications.
Alternatives
Other therapies may be considered based on severity and patient preference:
- Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) phototherapy → Broader but less precise.
- Topical medications → Corticosteroids, tacrolimus, vitamin D analogues.
- Systemic therapies → Biologics, methotrexate, cyclosporine for severe psoriasis.
- PUVA therapy (psoralen + UVA) → Less commonly used today due to side effects.
- Surgical options → Skin grafting or melanocyte transplantation (for stable vitiligo).
Preparation
Preparation before excimer laser treatment includes:
- Dermatologist consultation → Assess skin type, condition, and goals.
- Avoiding sunburn and tanning before sessions.
- Stopping photosensitizing medications (antibiotics, acne treatments, herbal supplements).
- Patch test or MED test → To determine safe and effective laser dosage.
- Moisturizing → Keeping skin healthy improves tolerance.
How it’s Done
A typical excimer laser procedure in Korea includes:
- Cleansing → The treatment area is cleaned.
- Mapping → Dermatologist identifies and marks patches to be treated.
- Laser exposure → The handheld device delivers UVB light precisely to lesions.
- Session length: a few seconds to minutes per patch.
- Energy is adjusted gradually for safety and efficacy.
- Protective measures → Goggles for eye protection, shielding of unaffected skin.
- Aftercare → Soothing ointment or calming packs may be applied.
Recovery
Recovery is usually fast and uncomplicated:
- Mild redness or irritation may occur for 1–2 days.
- No downtime — patients can resume daily life immediately.
- Pigmentation improvement is seen after 6–10 sessions, with stronger results after 20–30 sessions.
- Sun protection is mandatory to prevent sensitivity or uneven pigmentation.
Complications
Although safe, some side effects may occur:
- Temporary redness and swelling
- Dryness or mild peeling
- Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
- Rare blistering if energy is too strong
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea is known for advanced dermatology and aesthetics, and excimer laser treatment is widely available in hospitals and private skin clinics.
Key features of excimer laser therapy in Korea include:
- Personalized protocols → Doses tailored to individual skin tone and lesion type.
- Combination therapies →
- Vitiligo: Excimer + tacrolimus cream or Rejuran injection.
- Psoriasis: Excimer + biologic therapy for resistant cases.
- Alopecia areata: Excimer + PRP to encourage hair regrowth.
- High-frequency schedules → 2–3 weekly sessions to maximize results.
- Integration with K-beauty aftercare → Calming herbal serums, hydrating facials, and antioxidant-rich products.
- Long-term maintenance → Korean dermatologists emphasize ongoing light maintenance sessions for sustained improvement.
✅ Key Point: Excimer Laser 308nm in Korea is a precise, safe, and innovative therapy for skin conditions like vitiligo and psoriasis, offering faster and more localized results compared to traditional phototherapy, with the added benefit of aesthetic recovery care unique to Korean dermatology.
