Dermatology

Dermatology has two sides — treatment and cosmetics — with completely different cost structures.

When to go

• Hives, eczema, atopic dermatitis — persistent itchy red rashes
• Acne — when severe or scarring
• Athlete's foot and ringworm — itching and discolouration of toes or nails
• Hair loss — sudden or in patches
• Changes to moles or warts — any change in size or colour needs review
• Shingles — a band of blisters and pain on one side. The sooner you go, the better.

The process

1. Note when symptoms began and what changed (detergent, cosmetics, food).
2. Register at a dermatology clinic. Walk-ins are usually fine.
3. After examination, tests (fungal, allergy, biopsy) may be done.
4. Finish the course of prescribed medication. Stopping topical treatment early invites recurrence.
5. If there is no improvement, go back or discuss referral to a larger hospital.

Insurance cover

• Treatment of disease — covered by health insurance, with a patient share.
• Cosmetic purposes — lasers, fillers, botox and some mole removal are non-covered, paid in full.
• The same procedure can fall either way depending on its purpose. Ask first.

Where to go

• Your local dermatology clinic
• 1644-2000 HIRA (compare non-covered charges)
• hira.or.kr hospital search
• Public health centre (advice on some conditions)

Questions people ask

Can I keep applying the ointment? Using steroid ointment long-term without guidance causes side effects. Follow the prescription and go back if it doesn't improve.

Cosmetic prices differ between clinics. Because they are non-covered. Compare on HIRA and confirm the total and any extra charges before the procedure.

Is shingles an emergency? Not an A&E matter, but see a doctor as soon as possible — urgently if it is near the eye.

Where do I take a child with atopic dermatitis? Paediatrics or dermatology both work. Moisturising is the foundation; if severe, get specialist care.

Take care

If a mole or patch changes in size, colour or shape, get it checked without delay. Don't self-diagnose from the internet or apply unverified products. For cosmetic procedures, get the side effects and total cost in writing.

Related

hospital-finder · hospital-bill-understand · otc-medicine · medicine-safety · orthopedic

Source

Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service www.hira.or.kr / As of 2026-08