Kim Jae-joong says he does “this” once a year—what is the secret to his youthful look?

Singer Kim Jaejoong recently appeared on YouTube's ‘Yongtaro’ and candidly answered ‘Of course I should’ when asked whether he receives dermatology treatments. Premium procedures at Gangnam, Cheongdam and other clinics frequented by celebrities are no longer exclusively for idols and actors. Kim revealed his distinctive routine: ‘Every year, I make sure to have a health checkup and skin care. You absolutely have to.’ His view that skin needs regular checks like a health examination, not merely cosmetic attention, shows the secret behind his still idol-like appearance at 39.

Meanwhile, actress Gong Hyo-jin said in a Q&A video on her YouTube channel ‘For the Time Being, Gong Hyo-jin’ that she ‘doesn't usually go to dermatology clinics,’ but makes an exception for lifting treatments. Although this seems the opposite of Kim Jaejoong's approach, the two actually share the same message.

That message is that skin, like health, needs ‘checkups’ and ‘preventive care,’ and regular dermatology procedures help maintain a youthful appearance like theirs. In practice, not only many VIPs but also ordinary clients receive regular skin consultations and personalized procedures.

Why are skin checkups essential?

Just as regular health screening detects and prevents illness early, the key for skin is checking and caring for it before aging or damage appears. Yet many people visit a dermatologist only after changes occur. Once a dull tone, enlarged pores, reduced elasticity or wrinkles worsen, they are difficult and costly to reverse.

That is why preventive procedures and diagnosis ‘when the skin has no problems’ matter. Simply checking skin regularly at seasonal changes or once or twice a year and receiving personalized care can slow skin aging and keep its condition consistent.

Skin is an organ that can change rapidly with external irritation, ultraviolet exposure, fine dust, temperature shifts, stress and lack of sleep. Even if it looks fine, functions in the dermis, sebaceous glands and pigment cells gradually decline, suddenly showing up as wrinkles, pigmentation or reduced elasticity. Regular assessment and tailored care or procedures, even without major visible changes, are therefore the key to keeping skin youthful and healthy longer.

Above all, once skin is damaged, recovery is slow and care becomes more expensive. Established melasma or wrinkles are difficult to improve quickly and require time and money for intensive measures such as laser treatment. By contrast, when skin is stable, simple preventive clinic procedures can maintain its function and effectively delay aging.

Recommended skin care to prevent aging and maintain condition

Skin changes every day. Even the best cosmetics have limits when used only at home, making more reliable, systematic care through regular treatment necessary.

1) For skin regeneration: ‘Shining Rejuran’ injects a salmon-DNA-derived ingredient, PDRN, to encourage regeneration of damaged cells. Especially for delicate or easily irritated skin, repeating this procedure each season or once a quarter greatly helps preserve resilience and health.

2) For concerns about elasticity and lifting: HIFU-based ‘Ultherapy’ directly stimulates the dermis and SMAS fascial layer, with a single session providing lifting lasting six months to nearly a year. It is a self-care method used by many celebrities.

3) For radiance, vitality and hydration: ‘Super Miracle hydration injections’ provide deep moisture and glow from within using nutrient-rich combinations including hyaluronic acid. When skin is dry or lacks vitality, regular care once a month or once each season is especially recommended.

Skin, like health, needs a habit of advance care

Aging comes to everyone, but it is possible to slow it substantially. Like health checkups, skin needs regular assessment and systematic care. Consult a skin specialist once or twice a year to find out what help your skin needs. If unusual symptoms occur, it is especially advisable to visit a dermatologist promptly.

After examination, skin-care products or procedures are recommended according to the findings, and advice on lifestyle and diet is also available. It is important to understand your skin accurately through regular skin-health checks and receive suitable care; this greatly helps prevent skin aging and maintain healthy skin.

▼ For further details, please visit the official Dr. Seolreim YouTube channel.