Scalp in Seoul
Choosing a clinic for scalp Seoul evaluation is often the first practical step for anyone concerned about thinning hair or a changing scalp condition. At Hairon Clinic, located on the 3rd floor of the Hongwoo Building at 373 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, the Scalp & Follicle Examination uses a 60x magnification microscope to quantitatively assess hair density per follicle, signs of scalp inflammation, and sebum status. This page explains what the exam involves, who may benefit, and what to expect before booking.
What it is
The Scalp & Follicle Examination is a diagnostic assessment rather than a treatment in itself. A magnified scalp camera or microscope is used to capture close-up images of the scalp surface and individual follicles. From these images, the examining doctor can estimate the number of hairs growing from each follicle unit, note redness or flaking that may indicate inflammation, and evaluate oil production levels. This data forms a baseline that can be compared against future exams if a patient chooses ongoing monitoring or treatment.
Because the exam is non-invasive and image-based, it is often used as a first consultation step for patients exploring options related to hair thinning, shedding, or scalp discomfort. Any recommendations that follow the exam are based on the doctor's clinical judgment and the specific findings for that individual.
Who it suits
This examination is generally appropriate for adults who have noticed changes in hair density, increased shedding, visible scalp irritation, or excess oiliness and want an objective look before deciding on further steps. It can also suit patients who are already undergoing treatment elsewhere and want a second opinion or updated scalp assessment while visiting Seoul. Because the exam is diagnostic, it does not require a specific hair loss diagnosis beforehand — many patients come simply out of curiosity or early concern.
Who should avoid it
There are few contraindications to a scalp and follicle examination itself, since it involves no injections, medication, or physical intervention beyond close visual imaging. However, patients with an active scalp infection, open wounds, or a recent scalp procedure may be advised to reschedule until the area has healed, so that the imaging is not uncomfortable and the findings are not affected by temporary irritation. Patients who are only interested in immediate treatment without any diagnostic step should discuss this directly with the clinic, as the exam is intended to inform any subsequent recommendations rather than replace them.
How the session goes
During a typical visit, a staff member will part sections of the hair and position a handheld magnification device against the scalp to capture images at various points. This is usually done without any anesthesia or preparation, and most patients feel nothing more than light contact with the device. The doctor then reviews the magnified images together with the patient, pointing out follicle density, hair shaft thickness variation, redness, or oil buildup as observed. At Hairon Clinic, this consultation may involve Son Hyong-gon, Chief Director, an Internal Medicine Specialist and Regular Member of the Korean Society for Hair Research, or Kwon Ha-nim, Advisory Director and Neurology Specialist, depending on scheduling and the nature of the concern. Both doctors can discuss findings and outline possible next steps based on what the images show, though any further treatment plan is a separate discussion from the exam itself.
Downtime and recovery
There is no downtime associated with this examination. Patients can resume normal activities, including washing their hair, immediately afterward. No sedation or numbing is used, so there are no restrictions on driving or working the same day. Because the exam does not alter the scalp physically, no recovery period is needed, and results are typically discussed on the same visit rather than requiring a follow-up appointment solely for reviewing images.
Pricing
Specific pricing for the Scalp & Follicle Examination is not published on this page. Patients considering a scalp Seoul consultation at Hairon Clinic should contact the clinic directly at 02.6949.2030 to confirm current fees, as costs may vary depending on whether the exam is combined with a broader consultation. As with most clinics, quoted amounts may or may not include VAT, and an in-person or phone consultation is recommended to confirm final costs before your visit.
Safety
Because this exam relies on external imaging rather than any invasive step, it carries minimal physical risk. The main consideration is accuracy of interpretation, which depends on the experience of the examining doctor and the quality of the imaging equipment. Results and observations can vary between visits depending on factors such as recent hair washing, styling products, or seasonal scalp changes, so a single exam should be understood as a snapshot rather than a definitive, unchanging diagnosis. Patients with ongoing scalp or hair concerns are generally advised to discuss any exam findings in the context of their broader medical history, and to ask the doctor directly about how confident the assessment is given individual variation in hair and scalp presentation.
Frequently asked questions
Is the scalp and follicle exam painful?
No, the exam involves a magnification device placed against the scalp and does not require needles, numbing, or incisions, so most patients report no discomfort.
How long does the exam take?
Duration is not specified here, but this type of magnified scalp imaging is generally brief, often completed within a single consultation visit along with time to review the images with the doctor.
Do I need a hair loss diagnosis before booking this exam?
No, the exam is often used as a first step for patients who simply want an objective look at their scalp and follicle condition before any diagnosis is made.
Will the exam tell me exactly why my hair is thinning?
The exam provides useful measurements such as hair density and signs of inflammation, but it is one part of a broader evaluation, and individual causes of thinning can vary, so further discussion with the doctor is usually needed.
Can I see the doctors mentioned on this page for my exam?
Availability depends on scheduling, and patients can ask when booking whether Son Hyong-gon or Kwon Ha-nim will be conducting or reviewing the examination on their visit date.