Skin Boosters in Korea: Complete Guide to Types, Prices & Comparison 2025
Skin boosters have revolutionized the Korean skincare industry, offering deep hydration and rejuvenation that topical products simply cannot achieve. From the famous Rejuran Healer to the luxurious Chanel Injection, Korea leads the world in skin booster innovation. Here's your complete guide to choosing the right skin booster in Seoul.
What are Skin Boosters?
Skin boosters are injectable treatments that deliver active ingredients directly into the dermis (middle layer of skin). Unlike fillers that add volume to specific areas, skin boosters improve overall skin quality by:
- Providing deep hydration
- Stimulating collagen production
- Improving skin texture and tone
- Strengthening the skin barrier
- Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
Think of skin boosters as an "internal moisturizer" that works from within.
Popular Types of Skin Boosters in Korea
1. Water Light Injection (물광주사)
Main Ingredient: Hyaluronic Acid
One of Korea's oldest and most popular skin boosters. The name means "water glow" because it gives skin a dewy, radiant appearance.
- Best for: Dehydrated skin, first-time patients
- Results: Immediate hydration, lasting 2-3 months
- Price: ₩80,000-150,000 ($60-115)
2. Chanel Injection (샤넬주사/Filorga 135)
Main Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid + 54 active ingredients
Premium skin booster nicknamed after the luxury brand for its high-end results.
- Best for: Anti-aging, overall skin health
- Results: Improved elasticity and radiance
- Price: ₩150,000-300,000 ($115-230)
3. Rejuran Healer (리쥬란힐러)
Main Ingredient: PN (Polynucleotide) from salmon DNA
Korea's signature skin booster that regenerates skin cells and improves texture.
- Best for: Damaged skin, acne scars, sensitive skin
- Results: Skin regeneration, anti-inflammatory benefits
- Price: ₩200,000-400,000 ($155-310)
4. Exosome Booster (4th Generation)
Main Ingredient: Exosomes (cell-derived vesicles)
The latest generation of skin boosters using cutting-edge biotechnology.
- Best for: Advanced anti-aging, comprehensive rejuvenation
- Results: Enhanced regeneration and repair
- Price: ₩300,000-500,000 ($230-385)
5. Profhilo
Main Ingredient: High-concentration hyaluronic acid
Italian technology popular in Korean clinics for bio-remodeling.
- Best for: Severe dehydration, skin laxity
- Results: Deep hydration + mild lifting
- Price: ₩300,000-500,000 ($230-385)
Skin Booster Comparison Chart
| Product | Main Ingredient | Best For | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water Light | Hyaluronic Acid | Hydration | 2-3 months | $60-115 |
| Chanel (Filorga) | HA + 54 actives | Anti-aging | 3-4 months | $115-230 |
| Rejuran | Salmon PN | Regeneration | 6-12 months | $155-310 |
| Exosome | Exosomes | Comprehensive | 6-12 months | $230-385 |
| Profhilo | High-conc HA | Hydration + Lift | 6 months | $230-385 |
How to Choose the Right Skin Booster
By Skin Concern
Dehydrated, Dull Skin:
- Start with: Water Light Injection
- Upgrade to: Profhilo
Early Aging (Fine Lines, Loss of Elasticity):
- Best choice: Chanel Injection
- Alternative: Exosome Booster
Damaged/Sensitive Skin:
- Best choice: Rejuran Healer
- Alternative: Exosome Booster
Acne Scars & Uneven Texture:
- Best choice: Rejuran Healer
- Combine with: Laser treatments
Comprehensive Anti-Aging:
- Best choice: Exosome Booster
- Alternative: Rejuran + Chanel combo
Treatment Process
Before Your Appointment
- Avoid blood thinners for 1 week
- No alcohol 24 hours before
- Come with clean, makeup-free skin
During Treatment (30-45 minutes)
Step 1: Consultation and skin analysis
Step 2: Numbing cream application (15-20 minutes)
Step 3: Skin booster injection using:
- Manual injection (traditional)
- Meso-gun (faster, more uniform)
- Microneedling device
Step 4: Soothing mask or LED therapy
After Treatment
- Mild redness for 24-48 hours
- Small bumps at injection sites (resolve in hours)
- No makeup for 12-24 hours
- Avoid saunas and intense exercise for 2-3 days
Recommended Treatment Schedule
For optimal results, most dermatologists recommend:
Initial Phase:
- 3-4 treatments
- 3-4 weeks apart
Maintenance Phase:
- 1 treatment every 3-6 months
- Depending on skin condition and booster type
Skin Booster Prices in Korea (2025)
| Treatment | Per Session | 3-Session Package |
|---|---|---|
| Water Light | $60-115 | $150-300 |
| Chanel Injection | $115-230 | $300-600 |
| Rejuran Healer | $155-310 | $400-800 |
| Exosome | $230-385 | $600-1,000 |
Prices as of January 2025. Actual costs vary by clinic.
Korea vs. International Pricing
| Skin Booster | Seoul | Los Angeles | London |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rejuran | $155-310 | $500-800 | $400-600 |
| Profhilo | $230-385 | $700-1,000 | $500-800 |
KFDA-Approved Products
When choosing a clinic, ensure they use officially approved products:
KFDA-Approved Skin Boosters:
- Rejuran Healer
- SkinVive (Allergan)
- Juvelook
- Sculptra
- Radiesse
Be cautious of unregistered products marketed as "cosmetics."
Side Effects and Safety
Common (Temporary)
- Redness and mild swelling
- Small bruises at injection sites
- Slight tenderness
Rare
- Infection (with improper technique)
- Allergic reaction
- Nodules or bumps
Minimizing Risks
- Choose clinics using KFDA-approved products
- Verify doctor's credentials
- Follow all aftercare instructions
FAQ
Q: Are skin boosters painful? A: With numbing cream, most patients feel only mild pressure. Very tolerable.
Q: How soon will I see results? A: Immediate hydration glow, with full results at 2-4 weeks.
Q: Can I wear makeup after treatment? A: Wait 12-24 hours to allow injection sites to close.
Q: How long do results last? A: 3-12 months depending on the product.
Q: Are skin boosters safe for all skin types? A: Yes, but those with active acne or autoimmune conditions should consult first.
Conclusion
Skin boosters represent the future of Korean skincare, offering deep rejuvenation that topical products cannot match. Whether you choose the classic Water Light injection or advanced Exosome therapy, Korean clinics offer world-leading expertise at competitive prices.
Ready to experience the Korean glass skin secret? Consult with a qualified Seoul dermatologist to find the perfect skin booster for your needs.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about skin booster treatments. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.
Last Updated: January 2025