What does “the number of hairs” in Thermage refer to? Let’s first understand the basic concept.
For those who are new to the Thermage treatment, one of the most frequently asked questions is: “Should I choose 900 or 1200 treatments?” Although this question seems simple, the answer varies from person to person, and it’s not necessarily true that more treatments mean better results.
Thermage uses “shots” as the unit of treatment, with each shot representing one instance in which the probe delivers monopolar radiofrequency energy into the deeper layers of the skin. The currently mainstream Thermage model in South Korea is the fourth-generation Thermage FLX, which utilizes AccuREP™ automatic energy optimization technology to adjust the output power in real-time based on the skin’s impedance. During the treatment, the physician will evenly deliver these radiofrequency pulses across your entire face or a specific area. Each shot heats the dermis to a depth of approximately 4.3 mm, causing the Collagen fibers to contract immediately and continuing to stimulate the production of new Collagen over the following 3 to 6 months.
▲ During the treatment with Thermage FLX, each “pulse” corresponds to the release of radiofrequency energy.
Currently in the South Korea market, Thermage facial probes are mainly available in three different laser emission specifications: 600 lasers, 900 lasers, and 1200 lasers. The 600-laser version is typically used for targeted treatments (such as on the chin or around the eyes) or for preventive maintenance among young people aged 20 to 25. What really causes confusion among users is the choice between the 900-laser and 1200-laser versions.
Many people mistakenly believe that “a larger number of hairs equals better results,” but this is actually a misconception. The choice of the number of hairs to be implanted should be based on factors such as your age, the degree of skin laxity, and your treatment goals. Blindly pursuing a higher number of hairs may lead to unnecessary pain and additional costs. Next, let’s clearly explain the differences between 900 and 1200 hairs.
900 shots vs 1200 shots: Understanding the 5 key differences at a glance
Below, we will provide a comprehensive comparison of the differences between the 900-shot and 1200-shot treatments from five key aspects: treatment area, energy intensity, effect durability, pain level, and cost.
| Comparison dimensions | 900 pieces | 1,200 units |
|---|---|---|
| Treated area | The entire facial treatment takes approximately 45–60 minutes and covers the Buccal Fat, Forehead, jawline, and neck area. | Full coverage of the face, neck, and jawline; the treatment takes approximately 60–75 minutes, and additional sessions can be scheduled for targeted areas. |
| Energy depth | With a penetration depth of approximately 3.5 mm, it primarily acts on the middle layer of the dermis, and its energy is relatively mild. | It can penetrate up to 4.3 mm, effectively acting on the dermis and the superficial fascia layer (the SMAS layer), with a higher energy density. |
| Effect maintenance | The effects last for approximately 12 to 18 months; the peak period of collagen proliferation occurs 2 to 4 months after the procedure; skin elasticity increases by around 42%. | The effects last for approximately 18 to 24 months; the peak period of collagen proliferation occurs 3 to 6 months after the procedure; skin elasticity increases by about 58%. |
| pain sensation | It is relatively mild, with a pain level about 40% lower than that of 1200; most people can tolerate it. | With higher energy, areas such as the Forehead and the lower jaw line will experience a distinct stinging sensation or the impact similar to that of an eraser. |
| Reference prices in South Korea | Between 9.8 million and 92 million Korean won (approximately NT$18,000 to NT$45,000), depending on the positioning of the clinic. | About 30% to 50% more expensive than the 900 model, costing between 91.2 million and 92.5 million Korean won (approximately NT$27,000 to NT$56,000). |
It is important to note that the number of treatments is not necessarily the more the better; what really matters is the evenness and precision of the energy distribution. If a doctor lacks technical expertise, even administering 1,200 treatments will not yield better results if the energy is not evenly distributed across the area that needs treatment, compared to a highly skilled doctor who performs only 900 treatments. This is precisely why choosing an experienced doctor is far more crucial than simply focusing on the number of treatments administered.
▲ Actual scene of a Thermage treatment room in Dermatology in South Korea. Professional equipment and a comfortable environment are important criteria when choosing a clinic.
How do doctors determine how many injections you need? 5 key evaluation criteria made public
Professional Dermatology doctors do not make arbitrary choices based on intuition when determining the number of Thermage treatments you should receive; instead, they follow a systematic evaluation process. Here are the five main criteria commonly used by doctors in South Korea:
1. Detection of skin laxity
This is the most critical factor in determining the number of treatments required. Doctors will assess the elasticity of your skin through a “pinch test” – by gently lifting the skin on your cheeks with their fingers and observing how quickly it rebounds. The slower the rebound, the more severe the loss of Collagen, and thus the higher the amount of treatment energy and the number of sessions needed. Some high-end clinics, such as Pind Dermatology, also use VISIA skin analysis devices to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the entire face, allowing for precise measurements of Collagen density and the degree of skin laxity based on the device’s data.
2. Age and the degree of Collagen loss
Age is the most straightforward indicator for reference. For people aged 25 to 35, Collagen is lost at a rate of approximately 1% per year, so their skin condition is generally relatively good; 900 injections usually achieve the desired firming effect. For those aged 35 to 45, the loss of Collagen accelerates, and the required dosage may fall in the range of 900 to 1200 injections. For individuals over 45 years old, skin laxity is usually more pronounced, making 1200 injections a more appropriate choice. However, these are just guidelines; the actual dosage should still be determined based on the individual’s specific skin condition.
3. Treatment objectives and expected outcomes
Do you want to “maintain the status quo and prevent aging” or “significantly reduce sagging and reshape facial contours”? If your goal is the former – for example, just to make your skin look more plump and prevent the appearance of early wrinkles – then 900 sessions are more than sufficient. If your goal is the latter – for example, to reduce noticeable Nasolabial Fold Correction, blurred jawlines, or loose neck skin – then 1200 sessions of deep lifting treatments will be more in line with your expectations.
4. Pain tolerance
This is a factor that is often overlooked but is actually very important. Although the Thermage FLX model uses vibration to distribute the pain, the high-energy treatments delivered at 1200 pulses can still cause significant burning and stinging sensations in areas with thinner skin, such as the Forehead and the lower jawline. If you are particularly sensitive to pain, or if you have found other medical beauty treatments to be unbearable in the past, choosing the 900-pulse option with a appropriately reduced energy level will make the entire treatment process much more comfortable for you.
5. Budget considerations
The price of the 1200 version is approximately 30% to 50% higher than that of the 900 version. In South Korea, this price difference ranges from ₩400,000 to ₩970,000 (about NT$9,000 to NT$16,000). If your budget is limited but your skin condition is suitable for the 900 version, there is no need at all to upgrade to the 1200 version just because you’re worried it might not be enough. On the other hand, if having Thermage treatment in South Korea is already 40% to 60% cheaper than in Taiwan, even if you choose the 1200 version, the total cost will still be much lower than the prices in Taiwan.
▲ Dermatology doctors in South Korea are conducting pre-operative consultations and determining the most appropriate treatment plan through specialized examinations.
Who really doesn’t need 1,200 strands of hair? For these 5 groups of people, 900 strands are more than enough.
Many people think to themselves when they walk into a clinic, “Since I’m already here, might as well get as many treatments as possible.” As a result, they end up spending more money and enduring more pain, yet they don’t receive proportionate benefits. For the following five groups of people, getting 900 treatments is definitely the best choice for you – there’s no need at all to insist on 1200 treatments.
Group 1: Young and middle-aged individuals aged 25-35, who primarily focus on anti-aging measures.
If you are in your early twenties or early thirties, have healthy skin with no obvious signs of sagging or drooping, and simply want to take proactive steps against aging, then a dose of 900 is the perfect starting point. At this age, your Collagen foundation is still strong, so the energy provided by a 900-dose treatment is sufficient to stimulate the production of new Collagen, achieving both the goals of “maintaining the current state” and “preventing aging.” Choosing a 1200-dose treatment not only costs more but may also cause unnecessary post-treatment swelling due to the excessive intensity of the treatment.
Group 2: People with thinner skin and sensitive skin types
People with sensitive skin or thinner skin may experience more intense reactions to high-energy radiofrequency treatments than others. During the 1200-hertz treatment, the burning and stinging sensations can be quite unbearable; moreover, the redness after the procedure may last longer than average. Choosing the 900-hertz setting and allowing the doctor to adjust the energy level appropriately can help achieve the desired tightening effects while significantly reducing discomfort.
Group 3: Novices who are trying Thermage for the first time
If this is your first time undergoing Thermage treatment and you don’t have much experience with this procedure, starting with 900 sessions is the best option. Firstly, it allows you to experience the treatment process and the post-treatment recovery firsthand. Secondly, if the results meet your expectations, you can adjust the number of sessions according to your needs in the future. The biggest risk of going straight to 1200 sessions is that if you find the treatment too painful or the results unsatisfactory, it may leave a negative impression of Thermage on you.
Group Four: Those who simply want to address specific issues in certain areas.
If your main concerns are focused in a specific area – for example, if only the Apple Zone has slightly sagged, or if you want to reduce fine lines around the eyes – then 600 to 900 treatments will be sufficient to address these issues specifically. A full face treatment of 1200 sessions is a more comprehensive anti-aging approach; if you don’t need such a thorough treatment, using more sessions would simply be a waste. Communicate clearly with your doctor about your specific needs and focus the treatments on the areas that require attention – this will likely result in more noticeable effects.
Group 5: Those with limited budgets but seeking high cost-performance ratios
Let’s do some calculations: In South Korea, the market price for 900 treatments of Thermage is approximately ₩800,000 to ₩92 million, while 1200 treatments cost ₩1.2 million to ₩92.5 million. The additional cost of ₩400,000 to ₩970,000 (about NT$9,000 to NT$16,000) results in an extended effect duration from 12 to 18 months to 18 to 24 months, as well as an increase in the Lifting effect by approximately 10% to 15%. If you think this price difference is worth it, you can certainly choose the 1200-treatment option. However, if you prefer to allocate your budget elsewhere—for example, on additional treatments such as hyaluronic acid injections or Botox—then the cost-per-treatment value of the 900-treatment package is actually higher.
▲ The genuine Thermage FLX equipment used in South Korea’s clinics, along with the manufacturer-certified probes, are essential guarantees for safe treatment.
Market situation of Thermage in South Korea: What is the price difference between 900 treatments and 1200 treatments?
South Korea is one of the countries with the most competitive prices in the medical aesthetics industry. The cost of Thermage treatments in South Korea is approximately 40% to 60% of that in Taiwan. Below is a reference to the latest market trends regarding the number of treatments provided by Thermage in South Korea in 2026:
| Number of treatments | Gangnam District, Seoul | Seoul Hongdae/Myeongdong | Seomyeon area of Busan/Haeundae | Taiwan reference prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600 shots | 6 million to 91 million yen | 5 million to 9.85 million yen | ₩450,000 to ⩽₩,750,000 | — |
| 900 pieces | 8 million to 92 million yen | 6.5 million to 91.7 million yen | 5.5 million to 91.4 million | NT$50,000 to 80,000 |
| 1,200 units | 12 million to 125 million yen | Between 91 million and 92.1 million | Between 9.85 million and 91.8 million | NT$70,000 to 120,000 |
As can be seen from the table, prices in Busan are generally about 30% lower than those in Seoul Gangnam. If you have sufficient time, flying specifically to Busan for thermage treatment could save you enough money to almost cover the cost of round-trip airfare. For more information on thermage treatment options in Busan, please refer to “Busan Thermage Treatment Recommendations | Tipps on Probe Types, Equipment Selection, and How to Avoid Common Pitfalls”.
⚠️ Be cautious of excessively low prices: If you come across offers for a full-face treatment costing less than ₩600,000 Korean won, be alert. Such low prices may indicate potential risks, such as the use of non-original probes, insufficient number of fillers injected (actual volume being less than claimed), unqualified practitioners, or inadequate post-treatment services. Thermage is a medical procedure that targets the deeper layers of the skin; safety and effectiveness are always more important than cost.
Where to get Thermage treatment in South Korea? 3 top recommendations for Dermatology clinics in Gangnam District
Choosing a trustworthy clinic is far more important than choosing the number of treatments to receive. Below are three renowned and highly-rated Dermatology clinics located in Gangnam District, Seoul—each with its own unique features and suitable target audiences:
1. Pind Dermatology (핀드 피부과) – Procedures are performed personally by the director; no mass production model is adopted.
▲ Actual environment of Pind Dermatology Gangnam Branch
Pind Dermatology is located in Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. It is only a 5-minute walk from Exit 11 of Gangnam Station on Line 2 of the subway. The most distinctive feature of this clinic is that all Thermage treatments are performed personally by the director himself, rather than being entrusted to nurses or non-medical staff – which is quite rare among large medical aesthetics institutions in South Korea. Before the treatment, a full-face analysis is conducted using the VISIA skin scanner. The number of treatments and the energy settings are customized based on the analysis results, rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach where “everyone receives 900 treatments”.
The prices of pind in the Gangnam area are considered mid-to-high-end. The starting price for the Thermage FLX full-face treatment is approximately ₩600,000 Korean won (this is the basic price for the minimum number of treatments; for the actual price of a complete 900-treatment package, please refer to BeautsGO). This option is suitable for customers who value the personal attention of a professional doctor and seek a customized treatment plan.
2. JD Dermatology (제이디 피부과) – A high-value choice, with original probes opened in front of your eyes.
▲ Actual environment of JD Dermatology
JD Dermatology is a well-known clinic with a high “cost-performance ratio” in the Gangnam area, and it is particularly popular among Taiwanese customers who have limited budgets but do not want to compromise on quality. This clinic uses officially certified FLX probes, which are opened in front of the patient before each treatment to ensure that they are brand-new and unopened – this is extremely important in South Korea’s ANEW industry, as some lower-priced clinics may use reused probes or non-original consumables to cut costs.
The price of JD’s Thermage treatments in Gangnam is considered mid-to-low-end, making them suitable for beginners who are trying Thermage for the first time or those with limited budgets but still want to ensure they receive genuine products. The clinic is located just 6 minutes away on foot from Exit 4 of the Sinnonhyeon subway station, offering convenient transportation.
3. INEE Dermatology —— Comprehensive Chinese-language services and customized energy adjustment options
▲ Schematic illustration of the environment in a Dermatology clinic in Gangnam District
For customers in Taiwan, the greatest advantage of INEE Dermatology is its provision of Chinese-language services throughout the entire process – from appointment consultations and pre-operative examinations to post-operative follow-ups – eliminating any concerns regarding language barriers. The treatment plans offered by the clinic are highly personalized, and during the procedure, doctors will adjust the intensity of the treatments based on the customer’s immediate feedback, which is a significant advantage for those who are sensitive to pain.
INEE is located just 8 minutes away on foot from Exit 3 of Gangnam Station on Subway Line 2. It is closed on Wednesdays. If you are not familiar with the Korean language but still wish to communicate your needs clearly when undergoing medical beauty treatments abroad, INEE is an ideal choice. For more information on booking procedures, please refer to our comprehensive guide on booking medical beauty services in South Korea.
900 shots vs 1200 shots: My final recommendation
By now, you might still feel a bit confused. Here’s a simple decision-making process that can help you make the right choice in just 3 minutes:
| Your situation | Number of recommendations sent | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| Ages 25-35, with healthy skin and a focus on preventing aging. | 900 pieces ✅ | With a strong collagen foundation, 900 units of energy are sufficient to achieve both preventive and tightening effects. |
| Aged 35 and above, with noticeable sagging or blurred jawlines | 1,200 pieces ✅ | It requires greater penetration and a larger treatment area. |
| This is my first time trying Thermage; I am quite sensitive to pain. | 900 pieces ✅ | You can start by trying the basic package, and then adjust it according to your experience in the future. |
| I have previously undergone 900 treatments, and I was satisfied with the results, but I would like to enhance them further. | 1,200 pieces ✅ | Experienced advanced users can achieve more lasting results by upgrading the number of treatments. |
| With a limited budget, you want to get the best value for your money. | 900 pieces ✅ | The 900 units available cover full-face treatments, offering the best cost-performance ratio. |
| Desiring the best results in just one go | 1,200 pieces ✅ | Maximize collagen production and achieve optimal tightening effects with each treatment session |
In short: The 900-shot package is the “just-right” choice for most people aged 25 to 40 who primarily seek anti-aging treatments; the 1200-shot package represents an “advanced option” suitable for those over 40 with more noticeable skin laxity who are looking for more profound lifting effects. If you’re still unsure, the best thing to do is to visit a clinic where a professional doctor can assess your skin condition and provide the most accurate advice based on your specific needs – this will be far more reliable than any information found online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is there really such a big difference in the effects between 900 and 1200 treatments?
There is a difference, but it’s not “huge”. According to clinical research data, the amount of collagen production resulting from 1200 treatments is approximately 30% higher than that of 900 treatments, resulting in an approximately 10%-15% greater Lifting effect. For people with good skin conditions, the effect of 900 treatments is already very noticeable; for those with more severe skin laxity, the difference brought about by 1200 treatments becomes more apparent. In simple terms: if your skin is already in good condition, 900 treatments will likely make your friends notice and comment that “your skin looks much better lately”.
Q2: If I get 900 injections, will I need to get more later on?
Thermage is not a one-time treatment; it is recommended to receive it once a year for maintenance. The effects of 900 treatments last approximately 12–18 months, while 1200 treatments provide effects that last around 18–24 months. Regardless of which option you choose, regular treatments are necessary to maintain the continuous regeneration of Collagen. It is completely possible to start with 900 treatments and upgrade to 1200 treatments in the following year if you find the results satisfactory.
Q3: Are the probes of Thermage in South Korea genuine original products? How can I confirm this?
The Thermage FLX probes used in legitimate clinics are all manufactured by Solta Medical. Each probe comes with a unique serial number and anti-counterfeiting label. The most reliable way to verify their authenticity is to request that the doctor open a new probe in front of you. Original probes are packaged in sealed containers, and once opened, they are discarded after being used once. If a clinic refuses to open a probe in your presence, this is a red flag. For example, JD Dermatology follows the standard procedure of opening the probe in front of customers. For more details on how to identify genuine Thermage FLX probes, please refer to the detailed comparison between South Korea’s Thermage FLX and CPT systems.
Q4: How long does it take to see the results after receiving Thermage treatment? How long is the recovery period?
The collagen regeneration process associated with Thermage requires some time. Immediately after the procedure, there is an approximate 20%-30% immediate tightening effect (due to the contraction of collagen fibers when heated), but the true peak of results is usually seen 3-6 months after the treatment. The recovery process is quite fast: mild redness subsides within 12-24 hours, and local tightness fades within 2-3 days, allowing patients to return to their normal daily activities within a week. It is extremely important to avoid high-temperature environments (such as saunas), strict sun protection, as well as smoking, alcohol consumption, and staying up late for at least 1 month after the procedure in order to maintain the desired results. For detailed information on the post-treatment changes, please refer to the article “How long is the recovery period after Thermage in South Korea? A comprehensive analysis of changes 1 day, 7 days, and 30 days after the procedure.”
Q5: In which region of South Korea is it most cost-effective to undergo Thermage treatment?
Prices in Busan are generally about 30% lower than those in Seoul’s Gangnam district. A full-face Thermage treatment in Busan costs approximately ₩550,000 to ₩9,140,000, while in Gangnam, the price starts from at least ₩800,000. If you have 2-3 days available, flying to Busan for a Thermage treatment and taking some time to travel around would be a very cost-effective option. Of course, Seoul’s Gangnam district offers a wider range of clinics and more experienced doctors. If you prioritize finding the “best doctor” over the “lowest price”, Gangnam is still the top choice. For a list of recommended clinics in Busan, please refer to the comprehensive guide on Thermage treatments in Busan.
Let me share with you how I make my appointments.
If you are interested in the Thermage treatment offered in South Korea mentioned in this article, you can make an appointment in the following ways:
The recommended reservation method
Long-press to scan the QR code, or search for the WeChat ID to add. Please note in the remarks: “South Korea Medical Aesthetics Appointment”.
WeChat ID: F394666
- It is recommended to make a reservation 1-2 weeks in advance, as the number of spots is limited during peak periods.
- If you need to change the scheduled time, please notify us at least 48 hours in advance.
- After making the reservation, please pay attention to the reply via LINE or email to confirm that the reservation has been successfully processed.
Recommended related readings
2026 South Korea Thermage Guide: FLX vs CPT – Prices and Results Explained in Detail
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Real prices for South Korea’s Thermage FLX 900 treatment | Complete price listings for all regions in 2026
A side-by-side comparison of the prices of Thermage treatments in the three major areas of Gangnam, Hongdae, and Busan – after reading this, you’ll immediately know where to go.
How much cheaper is the Thermage device in South Korea compared to Taiwan? A comprehensive price comparison for 2026 and tips on how to save money.
How big is the price difference between Thermage in South Korea and Taiwan? After doing the math, you’ll realize you need to take a trip.
What are the differences between South Korea’s Thermage FLX and CPT? A side-by-side comparison of probes, energy levels, and prices.
Still struggling with the differences between old and new models? This article will help you understand the key differences between FLX and CPT in just one minute.
Busan Thermage Recommendations | Tips for Identifying Scams and Choosing Reliable Devices
Is thermage treatment in Busan 30% cheaper than in Seoul? Here’s how to avoid falling into the trap of low prices.
A comprehensive guide to making appointments for medical aesthetics treatments in South Korea: easy even for individuals alone
Even if you have no basic knowledge of Korean, you can still successfully schedule a consultation with a Dermatology specialist in South Korea – from choosing a clinic to completing the reservation process.