Korean Skincare Treatment Prices 2025: Complete Price Guide & Budget Planner
Planning your Korean skincare journey but worried about costs? You're in the right place. This comprehensive 2025 price guide breaks down the actual costs of popular Korean skincare treatments, from injectable procedures to advanced laser technologies, helping you budget effectively for your Seoul beauty experience.
Why Korean Skincare Treatments Are More Affordable
Before diving into specific prices, it's important to understand why Korean skincare treatments offer exceptional value compared to Western countries. Korea's competitive medical aesthetics market, advanced technology adoption, and high volume of procedures allow clinics to offer premium treatments at surprisingly accessible prices—often 40-70% less than comparable treatments in the United States, Australia, or Europe.
The savings are significant enough that many international visitors find it cost-effective to combine Korean skincare treatments with their travel plans, even when factoring in flights and accommodation.
Understanding Korean Pricing Structure
Korean dermatology clinics typically price treatments based on several factors:
- Treatment area size - Larger areas cost more
- Product quantity - Measured in units (Botox) or cc (fillers, skin boosters)
- Equipment brand - Premium brands like Ulthera cost more than alternatives
- Clinic location - Gangnam premium clinics vs. neighborhood clinics
- Promotional periods - Significant discounts during events
Important Note: Prices listed in this guide reflect 2025 market rates in Korean won (₩) converted to USD using an approximate exchange rate of ₩1,300 = $1 USD. Actual costs vary by clinic, season, and individual treatment plans. Always confirm current pricing during consultation.
Injectable Treatments: Botox & Fillers
Botox (보톡스) Pricing
Botox remains one of the most popular and affordable treatments in Korea. Prices vary significantly based on treatment area and number of units required.
Average Prices (2025):
| Treatment Area | Korean Won | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Forehead Lines | ₩31,500-₩50,000 | $24-$38 |
| Square Jaw (Masseter) | ₩47,900-₩100,000 | $37-$77 |
| Crow's Feet | ₩40,000-₩80,000 | $31-$62 |
| Glabella (Between Eyebrows) | ₩35,000-₩70,000 | $27-$54 |
| Hyperhidrosis (Underarms) | ₩90,000-₩200,000 | $69-$154 |
Full Face Package: ₩200,000-₩400,000 ($154-$308)
The overall average for Botox treatments in Seoul is approximately ₩67,300 ($52) per area, making it one of the most budget-friendly aesthetic procedures available.
Budget Tips for Botox:
- First-time customer events often offer 30-50% discounts
- Package deals (3-5 sessions) reduce per-session costs
- Promotional periods (typically January-February and August-September) feature significant savings
- Some clinics offer "trial" prices starting as low as ₩8,900 ($7) for specific areas
Dermal Filler (필러) Pricing
Dermal fillers in Korea use various brands and formulations, with prices reflecting the filler type, amount (measured in cc), and injection area.
Average Prices by Area (2025):
| Filler Type/Area | Korean Won | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Nasolabial Folds (1cc) | ₩300,000-₩500,000 | $231-$385 |
| Lip Filler (1cc) | ₩350,000-₩600,000 | $269-$462 |
| Under-Eye (Tear Trough, 1cc) | ₩400,000-₩700,000 | $308-$538 |
| Cheek Volumizing (1-2cc) | ₩500,000-₩1,000,000 | $385-$769 |
| Nose Bridge (1-2cc) | ₩500,000-₩900,000 | $385-$692 |
| Chin Augmentation (1-2cc) | ₩400,000-₩800,000 | $308-$615 |
Important Considerations:
- Premium fillers (Juvederm, Restylane) cost more than Korean brands
- Skilled injectors may charge premium rates (worth it for safety)
- Results typically last 6-18 months depending on filler type
- Some areas require more product than others
Skin Boosters & Rejuvenation Injections
Rejuran (리쥬란) Treatments
Rejuran, the famous salmon DNA skin booster, is a Korean specialty treatment that has gained worldwide recognition for its skin regeneration properties.
Rejuran Healer Prices (2025):
| Treatment Type | Korean Won | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Rejuran Healer (2cc) | ₩165,500-₩320,000 | $127-$246 |
| Rejuran Healer (4cc) | ₩242,000-₩450,000 | $186-$346 |
| Rejuran Eye (1cc) | ₩110,000-₩220,000 | $85-$169 |
| Rejuran I (Dark Circles) | ₩150,000-₩280,000 | $115-$215 |
Event/Promotional Prices: As low as ₩89,000 ($68) for Rejuran Healer at select clinics
Rejuran treatments are typically recommended in a series of 3-4 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart for optimal results. Package deals often reduce the per-session cost by 20-30%.
Water Glow Injection (물광주사)
Also known as "glass skin injection," this hydrating treatment gives skin a luminous, dewy appearance.
Pricing:
- Single Session: ₩65,000-₩150,000 ($50-$115)
- Package (5 sessions): ₩250,000-₩600,000 ($192-$462)
- Package (10 sessions): ₩450,000-₩1,000,000 ($346-$769)
Water glow injections are excellent entry-level treatments for those new to Korean skincare procedures, offering visible results at accessible price points.
Collagen Skin Boosters
Various collagen-stimulating injections are available in Korea, each with different formulations and price points.
Average Prices:
- Basic Collagen Booster: ₩75,000-₩130,000 ($58-$100) per session
- Premium PN-Based Boosters: ₩450,000-₩800,000 ($346-$615) per session
- Radiesse (Collagen Stimulator): ₩350,000-₩650,000 ($269-$500) per syringe
Laser Treatments
Laser Toning (레이저토닝)
One of Korea's most popular maintenance treatments for brightening and skin tone evening.
2025 Pricing:
| Package | Korean Won | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Single Session | ₩70,000-₩120,000 | $54-$92 |
| 5 Sessions | ₩198,000-₩350,000 | $152-$269 |
| 10 Sessions | ₩343,000-₩900,000 | $264-$692 |
Average per-session cost: ₩90,000 ($69)
What's Included: Basic laser toning treatments typically cover the full face and take 15-20 minutes with no downtime.
Pico Laser Treatments
Pico laser technology offers advanced pigmentation removal and skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime.
Pico Toning Prices:
- Single Session: ₩165,000 ($127)
- 5 Sessions: ₩649,000 ($499)
- 10 Sessions: ₩770,000-₩1,210,000 ($592-$931)
Pico Fractional Prices:
- Single Session: ₩143,000 ($110)
- 5 Sessions: ₩583,000 ($448)
Pico laser treatments cost approximately 2-3x more than traditional laser toning but offer faster results with fewer sessions required.
Fraxel Laser (프락셀)
Popular for treating acne scars, large pores, and skin texture issues.
2025 Pricing:
- Average Price: ₩47,400 ($36) per session
- Price Range: ₩39,000-₩330,000 ($30-$254)
- Common Range: ₩140,000-₩200,000 ($108-$154) for quality treatments
Note: Ultra-low prices (under ₩50,000) may indicate promotional test spots rather than full-face treatments. Verify treatment coverage during consultation.
Lifting & Tightening Treatments
Ulthera (울쎄라) - Premium Ultrasound Lifting
Ulthera remains the gold standard for non-invasive face lifting in Korea, though it's one of the pricier treatments.
2025 Pricing:
| Treatment Plan | Korean Won | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 100 Shots (Partial) | ₩200,000-₩400,000 | $154-$308 |
| 300 Shots (Full Face) | ₩530,000-₩650,000 | $408-$500 |
| Full Face Premium | ₩650,000-₩1,300,000 | $500-$1,000 |
Average full-face Ulthera treatment: ₩750,000 ($577)
Results Duration: 4-6 months of peak satisfaction, with effects gradually fading over 12-18 months.
Thermage (써마지) - Radiofrequency Tightening
Thermage uses radiofrequency energy for skin tightening and is known for longer-lasting results than Ulthera.
Pricing:
- Full Face Treatment: ₩2,000,000-₩3,000,000 ($1,538-$2,308)
- Combination (Face + Neck): ₩2,500,000-₩4,000,000 ($1,923-$3,077)
Results Duration: 12-18 months of satisfaction
While significantly more expensive than other treatments, Thermage offers longer-lasting results, making it cost-effective when calculated per month of benefit.
Shurink (슈링크) - Budget-Friendly Alternative
Shurink, a Korean-made ultrasound device, offers similar technology to Ulthera at a much lower price point.
2025 Pricing:
- 500 Shots: ₩175,000-₩250,000 ($135-$192)
- 1000 Shots (500+500): ₩350,000-₩500,000 ($269-$385)
- Full Face Package: ₩400,000-₩600,000 ($308-$462)
Important Note: While Shurink costs 50-70% less than Ulthera, results may be less dramatic and shorter-lasting. It's ideal for younger patients (20s-30s) seeking preventative lifting or those on tighter budgets.
Thread Lifting (실리프팅)
Thread lifting offers immediate lifting results with collagen-stimulating long-term benefits.
2025 Pricing:
| Treatment Type | Korean Won | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Threading (8-10 threads) | ₩350,000-₩500,000 | $269-$385 |
| Mid-Range (20-30 threads) | ₩700,000-₩1,200,000 | $538-$923 |
| Premium PDO Threads | ₩1,000,000-₩2,700,000 | $769-$2,077 |
| Mint Thread Lifting | ₩360,000+ | $277+ |
Average thread lifting cost: ₩554,000 ($426)
Price Factors:
- Type of thread (PDO, PLLA, PCL)
- Number of threads used
- Treatment areas
- Thread brand (imported vs. Korean)
Budget Planning: Sample Treatment Plans
Budget-Conscious Plan ($300-$500 per visit)
Focus: Maintenance and prevention
-
Option 1: Laser Toning (₩90,000 / $69) + Water Glow Injection (₩100,000 / $77) + Basic Facial (₩50,000 / $38) = ₩240,000 ($185)
-
Option 2: Botox (2 areas, ₩130,000 / $100) + Rejuran Healer event price (₩89,000 / $68) + Laser Toning (₩90,000 / $69) = ₩309,000 ($238)
-
Option 3: Pico Toning (₩165,000 / $127) + Skin Booster (₩130,000 / $100) = ₩295,000 ($227)
Mid-Range Plan ($500-$1,000 per visit)
Focus: Visible improvement treatments
-
Option 1: Dermal Filler (1cc, ₩400,000 / $308) + Botox (3 areas, ₩200,000 / $154) + Laser Toning (₩90,000 / $69) = ₩690,000 ($531)
-
Option 2: Rejuran Healer (4cc, ₩400,000 / $308) + Fraxel Laser (₩200,000 / $154) + Water Glow (₩100,000 / $77) = ₩700,000 ($538)
-
Option 3: Thread Lifting (budget, ₩450,000 / $346) + Botox (₩150,000 / $115) + Skin Booster (₩130,000 / $100) = ₩730,000 ($562)
Premium Plan ($1,000-$2,000 per visit)
Focus: Comprehensive anti-aging
-
Option 1: Ulthera (300 shots, ₩600,000 / $462) + Dermal Filler (2cc, ₩800,000 / $615) + Botox full face (₩300,000 / $231) = ₩1,700,000 ($1,308)
-
Option 2: Mid-range Thread Lifting (₩1,000,000 / $769) + Rejuran (₩300,000 / $231) + Pico Toning (₩165,000 / $127) = ₩1,465,000 ($1,127)
-
Option 3: Premium Filler (face contouring, ₩1,200,000 / $923) + Botox (₩300,000 / $231) + Laser Treatment (₩200,000 / $154) = ₩1,700,000 ($1,308)
Luxury Transformation Plan ($2,000+ per visit)
Focus: Maximum results, premium treatments
-
Option 1: Thermage Full Face (₩2,500,000 / $1,923) + Botox (₩300,000 / $231) + Rejuran (₩300,000 / $231) = ₩3,100,000 ($2,385)
-
Option 2: Premium Thread Lifting (₩2,000,000 / $1,538) + Multiple Filler Areas (₩1,500,000 / $1,154) + Pico Laser (₩300,000 / $231) = ₩3,800,000 ($2,923)
Money-Saving Strategies
1. Leverage Promotional Periods
Korean clinics run aggressive promotions during slow seasons:
- January-February: New Year events (20-40% off)
- July-August: Summer slow season (30-50% off)
- First-time customer discounts: Often 30-50% off selected treatments
2. Package Deals
Buying multiple sessions upfront typically saves 20-30%:
- 5-session laser package vs. 5 individual sessions: Save ₩100,000-₩300,000 ($77-$231)
- Annual membership programs: Some clinics offer unlimited basic treatments for fixed annual fees
3. Combine Treatments
Many clinics offer combination packages at discounted rates:
- "Glass Skin Package": Laser + Water Glow + Booster (saves 15-20%)
- "Anti-Aging Package": Botox + Filler + Lifting treatment (saves 20-25%)
4. Consider Korean Brands
Korean-made equivalents of Western products can save 30-50%:
- Korean filler brands vs. Juvederm/Restylane: Save 30-40%
- Shurink vs. Ulthera: Save 50-60%
- Korean laser equipment: Generally 20-30% cheaper
5. Choose Location Wisely
Premium Gangnam clinics: Highest prices, celebrity doctors, luxury facilities
Neighborhood clinics: Same treatments, qualified doctors, 20-40% lower prices
University hospital dermatology: Excellent quality, often 30-50% less expensive, but longer wait times
Hidden Costs to Budget For
Don't forget to factor in these additional expenses:
Consultation Fees: ₩10,000-₩50,000 ($8-$38)
- Many clinics waive this if you proceed with treatment
Post-Treatment Products: ₩50,000-₩200,000 ($38-$154)
- Recommended creams, sunscreens, recovery serums
- Optional but can enhance results
Follow-Up Sessions:
- Some treatments require multiple sessions for full results
- Touch-ups may be needed (especially fillers/Botox)
Transportation in Seoul: ₩20,000-₩50,000 ($15-$38) per day
- Taxis between Gangnam clinics
- Subway is much cheaper (₩1,250-₩2,500 / $1-$2)
Translation Services: ₩50,000-₩150,000 ($38-$115) per day
- If clinic doesn't provide English-speaking staff
- Many Gangnam clinics have international coordinators included
International Cost Comparison
To put Korean prices in perspective, here's how they compare to the same treatments abroad:
| Treatment | Seoul | Los Angeles | London | Sydney | Savings in Seoul |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Botox (per area) | $40 | $250-400 | £200-350 | $300-450 | 70-85% |
| Filler (1cc) | $300 | $700-1,200 | £400-700 | $800-1,100 | 50-75% |
| Ulthera | $500 | $2,000-4,000 | £1,500-2,500 | $2,500-3,500 | 70-85% |
| Laser Toning | $70 | $200-400 | £150-300 | $250-400 | 65-80% |
| Rejuran | $150 | $500-800 | £350-600 | $600-900 | 70-80% |
Even after factoring in flight costs (approximately $800-$1,500 from most Western countries), many procedures remain significantly cheaper when done in Seoul, especially if combining multiple treatments.
FAQ
Q: Are Korean skincare treatments safe despite lower prices?
A: Yes. Lower prices reflect market competition and volume, not lower quality. Korea has strict medical regulations, and dermatology is a highly competitive field. Always choose licensed clinics with experienced doctors.
Q: Do prices include tax?
A: Most clinic prices are displayed including VAT. Medical services in Korea are generally exempt from VAT, but cosmetic procedures may include 10% tax depending on the clinic's business structure.
Q: Can I negotiate prices?
A: Direct negotiation is uncommon in Korea. However, clinics often offer discounts for:
- First-time customers
- Package deals
- Multiple treatments on the same day
- Referrals
- Event periods
Q: Should I book treatments in advance?
A: For premium clinics and famous doctors, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is recommended. Walk-in appointments are possible at many neighborhood clinics but may have limited time slots.
Q: How much should I budget for a week-long Seoul skincare trip?
A: Budget breakdown for 7 days:
- Budget: $1,000-$1,500 (treatments) + $500-$800 (accommodation) + $300-$500 (food/transport) = $1,800-$2,800 total
- Mid-range: $2,000-$3,500 (treatments) + $800-$1,200 (accommodation) + $500-$800 (food/transport) = $3,300-$5,500 total
- Luxury: $4,000-$8,000 (treatments) + $1,500-$3,000 (accommodation) + $1,000-$1,500 (food/transport) = $6,500-$12,500 total
Q: When is the best time to visit for the lowest prices?
A: January-February (after Lunar New Year) and July-August offer the best promotional pricing. Avoid October-December when demand peaks before the holiday season.
Conclusion
Korean skincare treatments offer exceptional value for international visitors, with prices 50-80% lower than comparable Western countries while maintaining high safety and quality standards. Whether you're planning a budget-friendly maintenance trip or a luxury transformation experience, Seoul's competitive dermatology market provides options for every budget level.
Key Takeaways:
- Research promotional periods for maximum savings
- Package deals significantly reduce per-session costs
- Mid-range treatments often provide the best value-to-results ratio
- Factor in all costs including consultation, products, and follow-ups
- Even with travel expenses, Seoul treatments remain cost-effective for multiple procedures
Ready to plan your Korean skincare journey? Use this guide to create a realistic budget, then book consultations with 2-3 reputable clinics to compare specific treatment plans and pricing for your individual needs.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general pricing information for cosmetic dermatology treatments in Korea. Prices are approximate and subject to change based on individual needs, clinic location, and market conditions. This information is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Individual results and experiences may vary.
Last Updated: January 12, 2025 Prices as of January 2025, subject to exchange rate fluctuations and clinic-specific pricing Exchange Rate Used: ₩1,300 = $1 USD (approximate)
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