Hyperhidrosis Treatment in Korea: Complete Guide to Botox for Excessive Sweating (2025)
Excessive sweating can be more than just an inconvenience - it can significantly impact your confidence and daily life. If you're struggling with hyperhidrosis, Korea's advanced dermatology clinics offer some of the world's most effective and affordable treatments. From Botox injections to permanent solutions like miraDry, this comprehensive guide covers everything international visitors need to know about treating excessive sweating in Seoul.
Understanding Hyperhidrosis Treatment Options in Korea
Korea has become a leading destination for hyperhidrosis treatment due to its combination of medical expertise, cutting-edge technology, and competitive pricing. Korean dermatologists specialize in treating excessive sweating in multiple areas including underarms, hands, and feet using FDA-approved methods that deliver proven results.
The two primary treatment options available are:
Botox Injections (Temporary): Quick, minimally invasive treatment lasting 3-6 months miraDry (Permanent): Non-surgical microwave technology for lasting sweat reduction
Botox for Hyperhidrosis: How It Works
Botulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox) is the most popular first-line treatment for hyperhidrosis in Korea. The procedure works by temporarily blocking the nerves that activate sweat glands, effectively reducing perspiration in the treated area by up to 82-87%.
Treatment Process
The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on the treatment area:
- Consultation: The dermatologist assesses your sweating patterns and recommends appropriate dosage
- Marking: Treatment areas are mapped for precise injection placement
- Injection: Multiple small injections are administered throughout the affected area
- Post-care: You can return to normal activities immediately with minimal restrictions
Treatment Areas
Korean clinics commonly treat three main areas for hyperhidrosis:
Underarms (Axillary Hyperhidrosis)
- Most common treatment area
- Recommended dosage: 100 units per session
- Results visible within 2-4 weeks
- Lasts 3-6 months on average
Hands (Palmar Hyperhidrosis)
- Ideal for those with sweaty palms affecting work or social interactions
- Recommended dosage: 50-100 units per hand
- May cause temporary mild weakness (usually resolves within 2-4 weeks)
- Duration: 3-5 months
Feet (Plantar Hyperhidrosis)
- Effective for excessive foot sweating
- Recommended dosage: 50-100 units per foot
- Similar results to hand treatment
- Duration: 3-5 months
Botox Prices for Hyperhidrosis in Korea (2025)
One of the biggest advantages of getting hyperhidrosis treatment in Korea is the cost savings compared to Western countries. Here's a breakdown of current prices:
Korean-Made Botox
- 50 units: ₩47,000 (~$36 USD)
- 100 units: ₩80,000 (~$62 USD)
Popular Korean brands include Nabota and Meditoxin, both approved by Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS).
Coretox (Korean Premium)
- 50 units: ₩89,000 (~$68 USD)
- 100 units: ₩150,000 (~$115 USD)
Coretox is a second-generation Korean botox with refined purification processes.
Xeomin (German Premium)
- 50 units: ₩125,000 (~$96 USD)
- 100 units: Approximately ₩250,000 (~$192 USD)
Xeomin is marketed as reducing antibody resistance, making it ideal for those concerned about developing tolerance to Botox.
Typical Treatment Costs
For a standard underarm hyperhidrosis treatment (100 units):
- Korean Botox: $62-75 USD
- Premium Brands: $115-192 USD
This represents savings of 60-75% compared to similar treatments in the United States, where underarm Botox for hyperhidrosis typically costs $500-1,200 per session.
What's Included
Most Korean clinics include:
- Pre-treatment consultation
- Topical numbing cream (if requested)
- The injection procedure
- Post-treatment care instructions
- Follow-up consultation if needed
Note: Some clinics advertise prices excluding VAT (10%), so always confirm the final price during your consultation.
Results Timeline and Maintenance
Understanding what to expect after your hyperhidrosis Botox treatment:
Week 1-2: Gradual reduction in sweating begins Week 3-4: Full effects become noticeable (up to 82-87% reduction) Months 3-6: Effects gradually diminish as the body metabolizes the Botox Maintenance: Repeat treatments every 3-6 months for continued results
Individual results vary based on:
- Personal metabolism
- Treatment area
- Units administered
- Lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, stress levels)
- Environmental conditions
Many patients find that with regular treatments, they can extend the duration between sessions as sweat glands become less active over time.
miraDry: The Permanent Solution
For those seeking a more long-term solution, Korea offers miraDry - an FDA and KFDA-approved non-surgical treatment that permanently eliminates sweat glands in the underarm area.
How miraDry Works
miraDry uses precisely controlled electromagnetic energy (microwave frequency between 300MHz-300GHz) to target and destroy sweat glands beneath the skin's surface. Because these glands don't regenerate, results are permanent.
Treatment Process:
- The underarm area is numbed with local anesthesia
- The miraDry handpiece is applied to deliver controlled energy
- Sweat glands are heated and eliminated
- Cooling protects the surface skin throughout the procedure
Session Duration: 60-90 minutes Number of Treatments: 1-2 sessions typically needed Downtime: Minimal - most return to work the next day Results: 90% of patients report significant sweat reduction Effectiveness: Clinically proven to reduce underarm sweating by an average of 82%
miraDry Pricing in Korea
Based on 2025 market research, miraDry treatment in Korea ranges:
Single Treatment: ₩1,500,000 - 2,500,000 (~$1,150 - 1,920 USD) Package Deals: Many clinics offer discounted rates for 2-session packages or repeat treatments
Compared to the U.S. where miraDry costs $2,500-3,500 per treatment, Korean clinics offer significant savings while maintaining the same high standards of care.
Important Notes:
- Price varies based on treatment area size and required energy levels
- miraDry is not covered by Korean national health insurance
- International health insurance policies may partially cover the procedure - check with your provider
Choosing the Right Treatment for You
When deciding between Botox and miraDry for hyperhidrosis treatment in Korea, consider:
Choose Botox if you:
- Want to try treatment before committing to permanent solutions
- Have a limited budget ($62-192 per session)
- Need treatment for hands or feet (miraDry only treats underarms)
- Prefer minimal to no downtime
- Want flexibility to adjust treatment areas
Choose miraDry if you:
- Desire a permanent solution for underarm sweating
- Want to avoid repeated treatments every 3-6 months
- Can afford the higher upfront cost ($1,150-1,920)
- Primarily struggle with underarm hyperhidrosis
- Prefer one-time investment over ongoing maintenance
Many patients start with Botox to assess their response to treatment, then transition to miraDry if they're satisfied with reduced sweating in the underarm area.
Finding Reputable Clinics in Seoul
Korea's major medical districts offer numerous options for hyperhidrosis treatment:
Gangnam District
Seoul's premium medical hub with the highest concentration of dermatology clinics. Expect slightly higher prices but cutting-edge technology and English-speaking staff.
Apgujeong
Known for cosmetic dermatology expertise, many clinics here specialize in Botox treatments with competitive pricing and package deals.
Myeongdong
Central location convenient for tourists, with several clinics catering specifically to international patients.
What to Look For
When selecting a clinic:
- Board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons
- English-speaking staff or translation services
- Clean, modern facilities
- Transparent pricing (get written quotes)
- Positive reviews from international patients
- Use of genuine, approved Botox products
Recommended Platforms: Gangnam Unni (강남언니) and ModooDoc (모두닥) are popular Korean medical tourism platforms where you can compare prices from 75+ clinics offering hyperhidrosis treatments.
Booking Your Treatment as an International Visitor
Before You Visit
- Research: Compare prices across multiple clinics via medical tourism platforms
- Contact: Email 2-3 clinics with photos of treatment areas and your concerns
- Quote: Request detailed pricing including all fees
- Schedule: Book appointments allowing 2-3 days in Seoul (for potential follow-up)
During Your Visit
- Bring your passport for registration
- Payment is typically cash (Korean won) or international credit cards
- Request English receipts for insurance claims if applicable
- Take photos of product vials to verify authenticity
After Treatment
- Follow all post-care instructions provided by your doctor
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours
- Keep treatment areas clean and dry
- Monitor for any unusual reactions
- Contact the clinic immediately if you have concerns
Safety Considerations and Side Effects
Hyperhidrosis treatments in Korea are generally safe when performed by qualified practitioners, but awareness of potential side effects is important.
Common Botox Side Effects (Usually Temporary):
- Mild pain or swelling at injection sites
- Temporary bruising
- Mild weakness in hands (for palmar treatment)
- Compensatory sweating in other areas (rare)
miraDry Side Effects:
- Swelling and tenderness (1-2 weeks)
- Temporary altered sensation in underarm
- Temporary bumps or lumps under the skin
- Rare cases of prolonged swelling or pain
Who Should Avoid Treatment:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Those with neuromuscular disorders
- People with skin infections in treatment areas
- Those allergic to botulinum toxin products
Medical Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Hyperhidrosis treatments should only be performed by qualified, licensed medical professionals. Results vary by individual, and no treatment is guaranteed to work for everyone. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss your specific condition, medical history, and treatment expectations. The prices mentioned are estimates based on 2025 market research and may vary by clinic and treatment specifics.
Final Thoughts: Is Korea Right for Your Hyperhidrosis Treatment?
Korea offers an exceptional combination of medical expertise, advanced technology, and affordability for hyperhidrosis treatment. Whether you choose temporary Botox injections starting at just $62 or permanent miraDry solutions around $1,150-1,920, you'll receive world-class care at a fraction of Western prices.
For international visitors, combining hyperhidrosis treatment with a Seoul vacation provides excellent value. Many patients schedule their procedures early in their trip, allowing recovery time while exploring the city's vibrant culture, shopping, and cuisine.
With proper research, clinic selection, and realistic expectations, treating excessive sweating in Korea can be a life-changing decision that boosts your confidence and quality of life - all while experiencing one of Asia's most dynamic cities.
Ready to stop excessive sweating? Start researching reputable clinics on Gangnam Unni or ModooDoc, compare prices, and take the first step toward a sweat-free future in Seoul.
Have questions about hyperhidrosis treatment in Korea? Share your concerns in the comments below, and our team will help guide you toward the best solution for your needs.
