Recently, a trend has emerged in some beauty circles: turning darker body parts such as nipples, groin, armpits, elbows, and even the vulva into a “pink tone.” This so-called “melanin care” treatment is heavily promoted by aesthetic shops.
But dermatologists warn that these procedures are not only ineffective but may also come with serious side effects.
What is “Melanin Care”?
At aesthetic shops, melanin care treatments are usually carried out as follows:
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Applying special ampoules and creams to darker areas
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Using LED devices for skin management
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Requiring customers to continue applying after-care creams at home
Prices vary by area, but intimate zones such as the nipple or groin can cost between $200–$700 per session. Despite not being performed by medical doctors, these treatments are marketed at luxury prices.
Experts: “It’s Just Chemical Peeling”
Dermatologists explain that melanin care is essentially a type of chemical peel.
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Acidic ingredients are applied to remove the outer skin layer where melanin is deposited
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If the concentration or exposure time is not controlled, it can cause chemical burns
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Inflammation after treatment often results in worsened hyperpigmentation
That pinkish tone some people see after treatment is not new, healthy skin. Instead, it’s simply damaged skin becoming thin enough to reveal underlying blood vessels.
Real Experiences: No Lasting Effect, Many Complaints
Online communities in Korea are filled with customer reviews about melanin care:
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“I spent hundreds of dollars but saw no effect.”
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“The area became extremely itchy after applying the after-care cream.”
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“The pink tone faded quickly once I stopped using the cream.”
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“I suffered burns and blisters in my groin after the treatment.”
Some customers even reported being pressured to purchase expensive after-care creams (around $80–$100 each, several per month), with shops blaming them if results did not appear.
Even Medical Lasers Can’t Guarantee “Pink”
The Korean Dermatological Association has stated that claims of turning brown areas into pink are false advertising.
Even with medical-grade pigment lasers (such as Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers), the most realistic result is a slight lightening of pigmentation—not a dramatic transformation from brown to pink.
Thus, the promises made by aesthetic shops are unrealistic and misleading.
Legal Concerns: Possible Illegal Medical Practice
Aesthetic shops argue that melanin care is “non-invasive” since no needles or lasers are used. But in reality:
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The skin often peels or blisters
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Pain and inflammation occur
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Long-term pigmentation and scarring may remain
When skin damage is this severe, the procedure can be classified as an invasive medical act. According to Korean law, such treatments performed by non-medical personnel may be considered illegal medical practice.
Conclusion: Is Melanin Care Safe?
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Results are minimal or temporary
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Side effects can be severe (burns, scarring, hyperpigmentation)
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Legal risks exist for both customers and practitioners
In short, melanin care treatments at aesthetic shops are not worth the risk.
If you are concerned about pigmentation in intimate areas, the safest option is to consult a certified dermatologist and consider proven, medical-grade treatments.