Indulge in Luxury: Self-care and Pampering in South Korea

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Discover the Art of self-care and K-beauty Secrets.

I’m currently at a high-end clinic in Daegu, South Korea, about to experience something different – ten different spa treatments and self-pampering procedures over the next few hours, including an IV drip. But not for medical reasons. It’s a trendy self-care treatment choice. The modern clinic exudes a futuristic vibe, in hot pinks, blues, and greens. The ladies are very professional and gentle as they connect to the IV; anticipation fills the room. This isn’t your typical procedure; the liquid in the tubing isn’t just vitamins – it’s an innovative rejuvenation in skincare. The familiar hum of the IV pump turns into a melody of possibilities, blending traditional dermatology with a modern approach to well-being, lulling me into a deep sleep.

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Click here to find all my favorite K-beauty skincare products and how to use them.

My Skincare Routine

While the indulgent self-care experiences I enjoyed in South Korea can be found elsewhere, the cost disparity between the offerings in South Korea and other locations is substantial. The meticulous attention to detail and the wide array of pampering services, from nail sessions and facials to laser and acne treatments, reflects the country’s dedication to skincare and beauty. The affordability of these treatments in South Korea allowed me to seamlessly incorporate them into my weekly routine, creating a lifestyle centered around self-care.

One of the distinctive aspects of my pampering routine in South Korea was the diverse range of options available, including eyebrow tattooing, waxing, and threading, each executed with precision and care. The attention to these finer details contributed to the overall allure of the experience. Additionally, the exploration of herbal and homeopathic treatments such as teas, acupuncture, and cupping added a unique touch to my self-care rituals, presenting a holistic approach to well-being that was both refreshing and rejuvenating.

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The element of surprise in some treatments like Vitamin IV drips further heightened the overall allure of being pampered in South Korea. Whether it was discovering new and innovative skincare techniques or experiencing traditional healing practices, each session brought a sense of novelty and excitement. The option to share these experiences with friends, turning them into day-long outings that culminated in a leisurely lunch at one of the numerous cafes or a shopping spree for coveted K-beauty products, made the entire ritual a social and enjoyable affair.

Vitamin IV Drip

One of the latest treatments I’ve discovered is the Vitamin IV drip. This therapy involves the administration of a blend of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants, and electrolytes directly into the bloodstream. This infusion aims to quickly replenish hydration and restore vitamin and nutrient levels. The intended benefits include visible improvements in skin radiance and an overall revitalized feeling.

My clinic of choice is BL Surgery and Dermatology in Daegu.

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Multi Regimen Spa Treatments

I recently experienced a comprehensive skincare session at BL, which included an IV drip, botox spray, and red light therapy. During my vitamin facial, after a thorough face cleaning, I received a glute IV drip of anti-aging antioxidants, topical botox spray, and a red light treatment aimed at preventing future wrinkles. Additionally, I underwent my 10th toning laser treatment with acne shots.

Living in a society known for skincare products and dermatology, I, as a black woman, initially doubted whether my skincare needs could be met. However, I discovered that BL Plastic Surgery & Dermatology offers numerous opportunities for individuals with dark or black skin to receive laser and dermatology treatments targeting concerns such as hyperpigmentation, folliculitis, acne, and anti-aging.

I personally dealt with dark patches and scars on my chin due to contracting measles a few years ago. I also struggled with folliculitis, a common skin condition that became more pronounced as I aged, leading to inflamed hair follicles, itching, discomfort, and pain. Trying to alleviate the irritation with tweezers resulted in more scarring, skin damage, and hyperpigmentation.

For years, I relied on makeup to conceal the dark marks. But not anymore. After, just a few months of treatment at BL Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, including a 5-pack of toning laser sessions, helped me regain confidence and achieve my skincare goal of going makeup-free. The toning laser treatments significantly improved my complexion, providing a bright and even-toned result. And my doctor ended each session with free vitamin C shots when needed. They made me a believer, that even in a homogenous society like South Korea, I could enjoy a lot of self-care and pampering.

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R-Toning Laser Treatments

A few years ago, I contracted measles from my youngest child. As a result, I developed dark patches and scars on my chin. I also suffer from a form of folliculitis– a common skin condition. It occurs as we age and produce less estroven, Hair follicles become inflamed. Small bumps form around the hair follicles, causing itching, discomfort, and pain. It became hard to ignore, so I would try to alleviate the irritation using tweezers to pull out the hair. This, unfortunately, led to even more scarring, skin damage and hyperpigmentation.

I wore makeup to hide the dark marks for years. It took just a few months at BL Plastic Surgery & Dermatology to restore my confidence and help me achieve my skincare goal of going make-up-free. I purchased another 5-pack of toning laser treatments– they have given me the bright, even-toned complexion I’ve always wanted.

Some of the other treatments I love to get include: Aqua Peels, Oxygen Therapy, Dermaplaning, Collagen Induction Therapy, Galvanic Facial (microneedling), low-level electrical currents, and Radiofrequency (RF) Skin Tightening.

Suppose you’d like more information about BL Plastic Surgery and Dermatology. In that case, I’d be happy to answer questions about pampering in South Korea & connect you with Hwon Lee, the English Coordinator & Interpreter.

[KakaoMap] BL성형외과의원
95, Dongseong-ro 2-gil, Jung-gu, Daegu
http://kko.to/jAs9MSrKD

Although I received complimentary services at BL, all opinions are my own.

Acupuncture and Acupressure

Living next to a renowned center for Oriental Medicine provides us with unrestricted access to traditional medicines, treatments, and endless possibilities for pampering in South Korea. Two notable practices are acupuncture and acupressure. Both have been proven to offer a range of health benefits, from pain relief to assisting with diet and weight loss.

Recently, I visited the Gangyoungwoo Oriental Medical Clinic. It’s a well-known acupuncture facility in downtown Daegu. I was seeking relief for the residual numbness (neuropathy) under the ball of my foot following back surgery. The clinic accommodates insurance, but the service is so reasonably priced that I opted to pay in cash.

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After describing my issue to the doctor, I lay on what they jokingly call a comfy Korean bed. The doctor targeted my lower back with acupuncture pins, focusing on areas that relieved my foot. During the 10-minute session, electricity ran through the pins under a red light. Following the acupuncture, I was led upstairs for what I thought was a massage, but it was much more. My visit included a 15-minute relaxing sleeve massage and a session in the aerobic thermotherapy chamber.

So far, I remain hopeful. For the first time the night after, I experienced no noticeable discomfort while trying to sleep. I’m eager to see if this could be a new normal for me. Surprisingly, all these treatments cost only 30,000 KRW (approximately $23). Considering the reasonable price, I might make this a monthly spa visit. Although communication was challenging, bringing a local national may help. The Gangyoungwoo Oriental Medical Clinic accepts walk-ins Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 16:00. They break for lunch from 13:00 to 14:00. They are also open on Saturdays from 9:00 to 13:00 and on holidays.

Gangyoungwoo Oriental Medical Clinic
38, Yangnyeong-gil, Jung-gu, Daegu
Link to location

Jjimjibangs

And last but never least, there are Jjimjibangs or Korean Bath Houses. During my last visit to a Jinjjimjibang in Korea, I had quite an adventure. Most jjimjibangs boast an array of amenities – hot and cold pools, traditional saunas, massage tables, and more. The small, cozy jjimjibang I visited perfectly escaped the overwhelming crowds often associated with larger establishments. From the soothing aroma of bubbling herbs in the hot pot, I sat over. The highlight? A vigorous scrubbing session, in places unexpected and untouched by foreigners, where the scrubber’s loofah-glove-covered hands worked their magic. Despite the initial shock, the experience ended up being oddly calming, leaving me with a sense of rejuvenation that lingered long after I left the jjimjibang.

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