Skin Botox in Korea: Complete Guide to Micro-Botox for Pores, Oil Control & Glow

While most people associate Botox with wrinkle reduction and facial muscle relaxation, Korea has pioneered a different approach: skin botox (also called micro-botox or 스킨보톡스). Instead of targeting deep facial muscles, this technique involves tiny injections of diluted botulinum toxin into the skin's superficial layers to address texture, pores, oil production, and overall radiance.

Skin botox has become increasingly popular among millennials and Gen Z in Korea—not for anti-aging, but for achieving that coveted glass skin effect with refined pores and controlled shine. This comprehensive guide covers everything international visitors need to know about skin botox in Korea, including how it differs from regular botox, realistic pricing, expected results, and important safety considerations.

What is Skin Botox (Micro-Botox)?

Skin botox, also known as micro-botox, intradermal botox, or "스킨보톡스" in Korean, is a cosmetic treatment that injects very small amounts of diluted botulinum toxin into the superficial layers of the skin rather than the underlying muscles.

How It Works

The treatment works on multiple levels:

Sebum Regulation: Botulinum toxin temporarily inhibits the activity of sebaceous (oil) glands in the dermis, reducing oil production and shine.

Pore Minimization: By controlling sebum secretion and relaxing the tiny muscles around pores (arrector pili muscles), pores appear visibly smaller.

Fine Line Smoothing: Micro-contractions of superficial facial muscles that create fine lines are relaxed, resulting in smoother skin texture.

Skin Quality Improvement: The treatment can reduce facial redness, improve skin tone, and create an overall smoother, more refined appearance.

The Science Behind It

Your skin contains numerous tiny structures in the dermal layer:

• Sebaceous glands: Produce oil that can enlarge pores
• Sweat glands: Contribute to skin moisture and shine
• Arrector pili muscles: Tiny muscles attached to hair follicles
• Blood vessels: Can contribute to facial redness

Skin botox targets these superficial structures without affecting the deeper facial muscles responsible for expression.

Skin Botox vs. Regular Botox: Key Differences

Understanding the distinction between traditional botox and skin botox is crucial:

Can You Get Both?

Yes! Many patients combine regular botox for specific wrinkle areas (like the forehead or crow's feet) with skin botox for overall skin refinement. Your dermatologist can create a customized treatment plan targeting both concerns.

Expected Results: What Skin Botox Can and Can't Do

What You CAN Expect

✅ Visible pore reduction: Especially effective for those with enlarged pores ✅ Oil control: Significant reduction in facial shine and sebum production ✅ Smoother skin texture: Refinement of rough or uneven texture ✅ Fine line softening: Improvement in superficial lines and creases ✅ Reduced facial redness: Helps with mild rosacea or general redness ✅ Matte, refined finish: Creates a "filtered" skin appearance ✅ Natural-looking results: No "frozen" face effect

What You CAN'T Expect

❌ Deep wrinkle removal: Not effective for established static wrinkles ❌ Skin tightening or lifting: No anti-gravity effects ❌ Acne treatment: Doesn't cure active acne (though may help prevent new breakouts) ❌ Permanent results: Effects are temporary ❌ Complete oil elimination: Reduces but doesn't eliminate sebum ❌ Pore removal: Makes pores smaller, doesn't eliminate them

Timeline for Results

Week 1: Minimal visible changes; treatment begins to take effect Week 2: Noticeable reduction in oil production and pore appearance Weeks 3-8: Peak results; skin appears most refined Weeks 8-12: Gradual return to baseline as effects wear off

Most dermatologists recommend retreatment every 3-4 months for maintained results.

Skin Botox Prices in Korea (2025)

Based on current market data from Seoul dermatology clinics:

Price Breakdown by Area

Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD.

Price Variables

Several factors influence pricing:

Brand of Botulinum Toxin:

• Korean brands (Coretox, Nabota, Dermotoxin): ₩120,000-₩149,000 ($92-$115)
• US brands (Botox, Dysport): ₩180,000-₩250,000 ($138-$192)
• German brands (Xeomin): ₩160,000-₩200,000 ($123-$154)

Clinic Location:

• Gangnam/Apgujeong premium clinics: 20-40% higher
• Mid-range Seoul clinics: Standard pricing
• Neighborhood clinics: 10-20% lower

Treatment Coverage:

• Full face requires more product and costs more
• Targeted zones (just T-zone or cheeks) cost less
• Package deals often available

Package Deals

Many clinics offer:

• 3-session packages: 10-15% discount
• Combination packages: Skin botox + laser toning or glass skin injection
• First-time visitor promotions: Often 20-30% off

The Skin Botox Procedure: Step by Step

Before Your Appointment

Consultation (15-20 minutes): Your dermatologist will:

• Assess your skin type, concerns, and goals
• Examine pore size, oil production, and texture
• Discuss realistic expectations
• Review any contraindications
• Explain the specific technique they'll use

Preparation (5 minutes):

• Your face is thoroughly cleansed
• Makeup and oil are removed
• A topical numbing cream may be applied (optional—many patients skip this as discomfort is minimal)

During Treatment

Injection Process (15-30 minutes):

1. Marking: Some practitioners mark injection points on your face
2. Dilution: The botulinum toxin is diluted more than for regular botox
3. Technique: Multiple tiny injections (often 50-100+ for full face) are placed in a grid pattern across the treatment area
4. Depth: Very superficial—just below the skin's surface, not into muscle
5. Sensation: Feels like tiny pinpricks; generally well-tolerated

Injection Patterns: Dermatologists use various techniques:

• Grid pattern: Systematic coverage of entire area
• Strategic placement: Focused on areas with largest pores or most oil
• Combined approach: Both grid and strategic targeting

After Treatment

Immediate Post-Care (5 minutes):

• Ice or cooling packs may be applied
• No occlusive products or makeup immediately after
• You can leave immediately—no recovery time needed

Visible Signs:

• Small bumps at injection sites (disappear within hours)
• Mild redness (resolves quickly)
• Possibly tiny pinpoint marks (fade same day)

Post-Treatment Care and Restrictions

First 24 Hours

✅ DO:

• Keep your face clean and hydrated
• Use gentle, non-irritating skincare
• Sleep with your head slightly elevated
• Apply ice if any swelling occurs

❌ AVOID:

• Touching, rubbing, or massaging treated areas
• Makeup application (wait at least 4-6 hours, preferably 24)
• Strenuous exercise
• Alcohol consumption
• Hot environments (saunas, hot yoga, steam rooms)

First Week

✅ DO:

• Resume normal skincare routine after 24 hours
• Use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
• Stay hydrated
• Maintain gentle facial care

❌ AVOID:

• Facial massages or aggressive rubbing
• Intense heat exposure (saunas, very hot showers)
• Facial treatments (facials, peels, lasers)
• Face-down sleeping positions

Why These Restrictions Matter

Botulinum toxin can migrate to unintended areas if the treated zones are massaged or heated excessively. This could:

• Reduce treatment effectiveness
• Cause unwanted effects in adjacent muscles
• Lead to asymmetry

Potential Side Effects and Risks

Skin botox is generally safe when performed by qualified professionals, but it's important to understand potential side effects:

Common (Usually Mild and Temporary)

• Injection site bumps: Small raised areas that disappear within hours
• Mild redness: Usually resolves same day
• Pinpoint bruising: Tiny bruises at injection sites (uncommon)
• Temporary dryness: Some patients notice increased skin dryness initially

Uncommon but Possible

• Facial expression changes: If injected too deeply or in wrong areas, can affect muscle movement
• Asymmetry: Uneven results if technique isn't precise
• Excessive dryness: Over-inhibition of oil glands
• Tolerance development: Reduced effectiveness with repeated treatments

The Tolerance Issue

One important consideration with skin botox is tolerance (내성):

What is it?: With frequent, repeated treatments, your body may develop antibodies to botulinum toxin, making it less effective over time.

Risk factors:

• Treatments more frequent than every 3-4 months
• Excessive dosing
• Starting treatments at a very young age
• Using different brands inconsistently

Prevention:

• Stick to recommended treatment intervals (3-4 months minimum)
• Use consistent, appropriate dosing
• Take occasional breaks from treatment
• Work with experienced providers who understand proper protocols

Rare but Serious

⚠️ Allergic reactions: Very rare but possible ⚠️ Drooping or weakness: If product migrates to facial muscles (rare with proper technique) ⚠️ Breathing difficulties: Extremely rare, more associated with improperly administered injections

Who Should Avoid Skin Botox?

Skin botox is not suitable for everyone. Avoid if you:

❌ Are pregnant or breastfeeding ❌ Have active skin infections or inflammation in treatment areas ❌ Have neuromuscular disorders (myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome) ❌ Are allergic to botulinum toxin or any ingredients ❌ Have unrealistic expectations about results ❌ Are under 18 years old ❌ Have very thin or fragile skin

Proceed with caution if you:

• Take blood thinners (increased bruising risk)
• Have a history of facial nerve issues
• Have very dry skin (may worsen temporarily)
• Are prone to keloid scarring

Finding the Right Clinic in Seoul

Recommended Areas for International Visitors

Gangnam District (강남)

• Pros: Most English-speaking staff, latest techniques, international-friendly
• Cons: Higher prices
• Best for: Those prioritizing communication and premium service
• Price range: ₩150,000-₩250,000 ($115-$192)

Apgujeong (압구정)

• Pros: Upscale clinics, celebrity dermatologists, cutting-edge treatments
• Cons: Premium pricing
• Best for: Those wanting top-tier expertise
• Price range: ₩160,000-₩220,000 ($123-$169)

Myeongdong (명동)

• Pros: Central location, tourist-friendly, competitive pricing
• Cons: Variable English proficiency
• Best for: Convenient location combined with treatment
• Price range: ₩120,000-₩180,000 ($92-$138)

Hongdae/Sinchon (홍대/신촌)

• Pros: Budget-friendly, younger demographic understands international clients
• Cons: Less English support, fewer luxury amenities
• Best for: Budget-conscious visitors
• Price range: ₩100,000-₩150,000 ($77-$115)

Essential Qualities to Look For

✅ Board-certified dermatologist: Not just nurses or aestheticians ✅ Authentic products: Verify they use genuine, properly stored botulinum toxin ✅ Experience with skin botox: Ask how many treatments they perform weekly ✅ Clear communication: English support or professional translation ✅ Transparent pricing: No hidden fees or pressure tactics ✅ Before/after portfolio: Real patient results ✅ Proper consent process: Detailed explanation of risks and benefits

Questions to Ask Before Treatment

1. "What brand of botulinum toxin do you use?"

   • Look for: Coretox, Nabota, Botox, Dysport, Xeomin

2. "How many units will be used for my treatment?"

   • Full face typically: 50-100 units (depending on dilution)

3. "What is your injection technique for skin botox?"

   • Should explain superficial dermal injection approach

4. "How often do you recommend retreatment?"

   • Correct answer: 3-4 months

5. "What happens if I'm not satisfied with results?"

   • Should have a clear follow-up policy

6. "What are the specific risks for my skin type?"

   • Should provide personalized risk assessment

Combining Skin Botox with Other Treatments

Skin botox works synergistically with many other Korean skincare treatments:

Excellent Combinations

✅ Glass Skin Injection: Skin botox (texture + pores) + glass skin (hydration + glow) = comprehensive skin quality improvement

✅ Laser Toning: Laser addresses pigmentation while skin botox handles texture and oil—complementary benefits

✅ LED Light Therapy: Often included immediately after skin botox to reduce inflammation and enhance results

✅ Chemical Peels (with spacing): Can alternate treatments—peel one month, skin botox the next

✅ Dermaplaning: Can be done 1-2 weeks before skin botox for better product penetration

Treatments to Space Out

⚠️ Regular Botox: Can be combined but requires skilled injector to avoid overlap

⚠️ Microneedling: Wait 2 weeks between microneedling and skin botox

⚠️ Intense lasers (fractional, CO2): Space at least 2-4 weeks apart

⚠️ Facial fillers: Can be done same day but in different zones

Maximizing Your Results

To get the best outcomes from skin botox:

Before Treatment

2 weeks prior:

• Avoid blood thinners if medically safe (aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E)
• Stay well-hydrated
• Maintain consistent skincare routine

1 week prior:

• Avoid alcohol consumption
• Get adequate sleep
• Skip harsh exfoliants or retinoids 2-3 days before

After Treatment

First month:

• Maintain gentle skincare
• Use oil-free, non-comedogenic products
• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily
• Stay hydrated (drink plenty of water)
• Avoid picking or squeezing pores

Long-term maintenance:

• Schedule regular treatments every 3-4 months
• Use quality skincare between treatments
• Consider complementary treatments
• Monitor oil production and adjust skincare accordingly

Optimizing Results with Skincare

Best products to use with skin botox:

• Hyaluronic acid serums (for hydration without oil)
• Niacinamide (complements pore-minimizing effects)
• Gentle exfoliants (AHA/BHA) used sparingly
• Lightweight, oil-free moisturizers
• Mineral sunscreens

Products to avoid immediately after:

• Heavy occlusive creams
• Aggressive active ingredients
• Oil-based products (initially)
• Physical exfoliants or scrubs

Real Patient Experiences

What Patients Love

✔ "My T-zone doesn't get oily anymore—I barely need blotting papers!" ✔ "Pores on my nose are visibly smaller, like I used a filter IRL" ✔ "Skin looks smooth and refined without looking 'done'" ✔ "No downtime—got it during lunch, back to work after" ✔ "Foundation applies so much smoother now" ✔ "Natural glow without the grease"

Common Concerns

✘ "Effects don't last as long as regular botox" ✘ "Need to maintain regular appointments—not a permanent fix" ✘ "Skin felt tight and dry for the first week" ✘ "Expensive to maintain every few months" ✘ "Results were subtle—not the dramatic change I expected"

Setting Realistic Expectations

Best candidates see:

• 30-50% reduction in visible pore size
• Significant decrease in oil production
• Smoother, more refined texture
• Subtle but noticeable improvement

Results are:

• Gradual (peak at 2 weeks)
• Temporary (2-3 months)
• Subtle (natural-looking)
• Cumulative (improve with repeated treatments)

FAQ

Q: Does skin botox hurt? A: Most patients rate discomfort at 2-4 out of 10. It feels like tiny pinpricks. Some clinics offer numbing cream, but many patients skip it as the treatment is quick.

Q: Will skin botox make me look frozen or unnatural? A: No. When properly performed, skin botox doesn't affect facial expression because it's injected superficially, not into facial muscles. You'll look like yourself, just with refined skin.

Q: How long until I see results? A: Initial effects start within 3-7 days, with peak results at 2 weeks. Full benefits last 2-3 months.

Q: Can I get skin botox if I have acne? A: It depends. If you have active inflammatory acne or infections, wait until it clears. For non-inflammatory acne or post-acne concerns, skin botox may actually help by reducing oil production.

Q: Is skin botox the same as "Botox facials" or "Micro botox"? A: Yes, these are different names for the same technique—superficial injections of diluted botulinum toxin for skin quality rather than wrinkle reduction.

Q: Can men get skin botox? A: Absolutely! Skin botox is popular among Korean men for oil control and pore reduction. The treatment is gender-neutral.

Q: What's the youngest age to start skin botox? A: Most dermatologists recommend waiting until at least mid-20s. Starting too young increases the risk of developing tolerance. Focus on skincare first.

Q: Can I exercise after skin botox? A: Wait 24 hours before intense exercise. Light walking is fine, but avoid activities that significantly raise your heart rate or body temperature.

Q: What if I don't like the results? A: Unlike fillers, botulinum toxin effects can't be reversed. However, if you're unhappy, effects will naturally fade within 2-3 months. Discuss concerns with your provider for potential touch-ups.

Conclusion

Skin botox represents a innovative approach to skin quality improvement that aligns perfectly with Korean beauty philosophy: subtle, natural-looking enhancements that make your skin look healthier rather than dramatically altered.

For those struggling with enlarged pores, excessive oil production, or uneven texture, skin botox offers a viable solution with minimal downtime and natural-looking results. With prices ranging from $92-$161 for full-face treatment in Seoul, it's relatively accessible compared to many other cosmetic procedures.

Key takeaways:

• Different from regular botox: Targets skin quality, not wrinkles
• Best for: Pore reduction, oil control, texture refinement
• Results: Subtle, natural, temporary (2-3 months)
• Maintenance: Every 3-4 months for sustained results
• Safety: Generally safe with qualified providers, but watch for tolerance development

Is skin botox right for you? If you're seeking refined, matte skin with minimized pores and you can commit to regular maintenance, it's worth considering. However, if you have very dry skin, want permanent results, or are looking for dramatic transformation, explore alternative treatments.

Seoul offers world-class dermatologists with extensive experience in skin botox technique. Choose a reputable clinic, communicate your goals clearly, maintain realistic expectations, and follow all aftercare instructions for optimal results.

Ready for refined, poreless skin? Consult a board-certified dermatologist in Seoul to determine if skin botox is the right treatment for your skin concerns and goals.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about skin botox treatments for educational purposes. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Individual results vary based on skin type, treatment technique, product used, and many other factors.

Skin botox involves off-label use of botulinum toxin products. While generally safe when performed by qualified professionals, all medical procedures carry risks. Potential side effects include but are not limited to: injection site reactions, facial expression changes, allergic reactions, and tolerance development.

Always consult with a qualified, board-certified dermatologist or physician before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Discuss your complete medical history, expectations, all potential risks and benefits, and alternative treatments. Never undergo procedures based solely on blog articles or marketing materials.

Prices, techniques, and availability described are current as of November 2025 but may change. Verify all information directly with clinics before booking.

If you experience adverse reactions from skin botox, seek immediate medical attention.

Last Updated: November 11, 2025 Reading Time: 18 minutes