Aegyo-Sal in Korea: Create Cute Under-Eye Bags - Prices 2025

Aegyo-sal (애교살)—those puffy under-eye "love bands" that appear when smiling—are a coveted Korean beauty feature. Unlike dark circles or eye bags, aegyo-sal creates a youthful, friendly appearance. Here's how to get them in Korea.

What is Aegyo-Sal?

Understanding the Look

Aegyo-sal literally means "cute/charming skin":

• Small, puffy rolls directly under the lash line
• Become more prominent when smiling
• Different from eye bags (which are lower and puffy)
• Associated with youthfulness and friendliness

Aegyo-Sal vs. Eye Bags

Why It's Desirable

• Makes eyes appear larger
• Creates "eye smile" effect
• Looks youthful and friendly
• Very popular in K-pop/K-drama aesthetics
• Softens facial appearance

Why Korea for Aegyo-Sal?

Korea invented this trend:

• Originated here: Korean beauty standard
• Technique expertise: Most experience
• Natural results: Understand the aesthetic
• Multiple options: Various approaches
• Competitive pricing: Affordable treatments

Treatment Options

1. Hyaluronic Acid Filler (Most Popular)

How it works: Soft filler injected along lower lash line

Products used:

• Juvederm Volbella
• Restylane Touch/Vital
• Korean HA fillers (Revolax, etc.)

Price: $310-$540 (₩400,000-₩700,000) Duration: 6-12 months

Pros:

• Quick procedure
• Immediate results
• Reversible
• Minimal downtime

Cons:

• Temporary
• Need maintenance
• Risk of lumps if poorly done

2. Fat Grafting

How it works: Your own fat transplanted to under-eye area

Price: $1,155-$1,925 (₩1,500,000-₩2,500,000) Duration: Long-lasting (60-70% survival)

Pros:

• Natural material
• Longer lasting
• Soft, natural feel

Cons:

• More involved procedure
• Swelling recovery
• Variable survival rate

3. Implant (Rare)

How it works: Small silicone implant placed

Price: $1,540-$2,310 (₩2,000,000-₩3,000,000)

Pros:

• Permanent

Cons:

• Surgical procedure
• Less popular
• Risk of complications

4. Makeup (Non-Permanent)

How it works: Shimmer and shadow create illusion

Best for: Testing the look before treatment

Cost: Makeup products only

Treatment Comparison

The Filler Procedure

Before Treatment

• Consultation and assessment
• Discuss desired look
• Review photos (reference images)
• Mark injection sites

During Treatment (15-30 min)

1. Cleansing area
2. Optional numbing cream
3. Small injections along lash line
4. Gentle molding
5. Symmetry check

Pain Level

• Pain: 2-3/10 (minimal)
• Sensation: Small pinch
• Numbing: Usually used

After Treatment

Immediately:

• Visible aegyo-sal
• Minor swelling
• Possible tiny bruises

Next few days:

• Swelling settles
• Final shape emerges
• Bruising fades (if any)

Results

What to Expect

Duration

• HA filler: 6-12 months
• Touch-ups: Every 6-12 months
• Fat grafting: Years (variable)

The Look

• Natural puffy roll
• More prominent when smiling
• Softer when resting
• Should look youthful, not overfilled

Who is a Good Candidate?

Ideal Candidates

✅ Good for:

• Flat under-eye area
• Want more youthful appearance
• Desire "eye smile" effect
• Understand the Korean aesthetic
• Realistic expectations

May Not Be Suitable

❌ Consider carefully if:

• Significant existing eye bags
• Heavy dark circles (address first)
• Very puffy lower eyelids
• Eye conditions

Combining Treatments

Often combined with:

• Dark circle treatment (if present)
• Tear trough filler (different area)
• Eye area rejuvenation

Before & After Considerations

Bringing Reference Photos

• K-pop idol photos are helpful
• Show what you like
• Discuss natural vs. dramatic
• Set realistic expectations

Starting Conservative

• Better to start with less
• Can add more later
• Overfilling looks unnatural
• Trust experienced injector

Risks and Considerations

Potential Risks

Avoiding Problems

• Choose experienced injector
• Start conservative
• Follow aftercare
• Return for adjustments if needed

Choosing a Clinic in Seoul

What to Look For

• Aegyo-sal experience: Understand the look
• Korean aesthetic sense: Know the trend
• Before/after photos: Similar results
• Conservative approach: Not overfilling
• Good reviews: Satisfied patients

Questions to Ask

• How much filler do you typically use?
• Can I see before/after photos?
• What if I want adjustment?
• How long will it last?

Red Flags

• Overfilled results in photos
• Inexperience with this specific treatment
• Pressure for excessive treatment
• No consultation

Aftercare

First 24 Hours

• Don't rub or press area
• Avoid makeup
• Sleep elevated
• Ice if needed (gently)

First Week

• Gentle cleansing only
• Avoid strenuous exercise
• No eye makeup for 24 hours
• Attend follow-up if scheduled

FAQ

Q: How is aegyo-sal different from eye bags? A: Aegyo-sal is a small roll RIGHT under the lashes (cute). Eye bags are lower, puffier, and look tired.

Q: Does it hurt? A: Minimal discomfort with numbing. Most describe it as a small pinch.

Q: How long does filler aegyo-sal last? A: Typically 6-12 months depending on filler type and metabolism.

Q: Can aegyo-sal make me look younger? A: Yes, it's associated with youthfulness and creates a friendly appearance.

Q: What if I don't like it? A: HA filler can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed.

Q: Will it look natural? A: With the right amount from an experienced injector, yes—it should look like a natural feature.

Q: Can I still wear eye makeup? A: Yes, after 24 hours. Many continue using aegyo-sal makeup to enhance the look.

Q: Is one session enough? A: Usually yes for filler. May need touch-up after swelling settles.

Conclusion

Aegyo-sal creation in Korea offers the authentic treatment for this beloved Korean beauty feature. Whether through quick filler or longer-lasting fat grafting, you can achieve the youthful "eye smile" look that makes eyes appear larger and friendlier.

Want that adorable aegyo-sal? Consult with a Korean clinic experienced in this signature treatment.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about aegyo-sal treatments. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified professionals.

Last Updated: January 2025 Prices as of January 2025. Actual costs may vary by clinic.