Pores cannot be erased, but they can look noticeably smaller. Here is an honest guide to which Korean dermatology treatments help, why, and what results to expect from a visit to Seoul.
Dermatology procedures cannot remove pores, but they can make them look smaller by reducing oil, firming the surrounding skin and smoothing texture. In Korea, common options include skin Botox to reduce shine, pico fractional and Potenza RF microneedling to rebuild collagen, and boosters such as Rejuran or Juvelook to improve skin quality. Most plans combine methods over several sessions. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong in Seoul, skin Botox starts from ₩129,000, pico fractional from ₩149,000 and Potenza from ₩299,000 for the full face (KRW, excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
Why pores look large
Pores are the openings of hair follicles and oil glands. Everyone has them, and their size is largely set by genetics. However, several factors make them look larger than they are, and these are what dermatology treatments target.
- Excess oil. Oily skin stretches and highlights the pore opening. This is common on the nose, forehead and central cheeks.
- Clogging. Blackheads and sebaceous filaments fill pores and make them more visible.
- Loss of firmness. As collagen declines with age and sun damage, the skin around pores loosens and pores can appear elongated or teardrop-shaped, especially on the cheeks.
- Scarring and texture. Past acne can leave enlarged or irregular pores alongside shallow scars.
Understanding which of these applies to you is the key to choosing the right treatment. See our large pores concern page for an overview.
What can dermatology procedures realistically achieve?
It helps to be clear from the start. No treatment can permanently shrink pores to a new, smaller size or make them disappear. What procedures can do is reduce the factors that make pores look large: they can cut shine, clear congestion, firm and thicken the surrounding skin, and smooth texture so light reflects more evenly. Together, these changes can make pores look noticeably smaller and skin look more refined.
Results vary depending on the cause. Pores that look large because of oil often improve quickly with treatments that reduce sebum, while pores stretched by loss of firmness respond more slowly to collagen-building treatments. Maintenance is usually needed because oil production and aging continue.
Large pore treatments used in Korea
| Treatment | How it helps pores | Downtime | Typical plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Botox | Reduces oil and shine; smoother surface | Small bumps for a few hours | Repeat about every 2–3 months |
| Pico fractional | Micro-remodeling to firm and refine texture | 1–3 days of redness | 3–5 sessions, about 4 weeks apart |
| Potenza RF microneedling | Deep collagen around pores; helps acne-prone skin | 2–4 days of redness | About 3 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart |
| Rejuran Healer | Supports skin repair and thickness | Small bumps for 1–3 days | 3 sessions, 2–4 weeks apart |
| Juvelook | Stimulates collagen to refine texture | Small bumps for 1–3 days | 2–3 sessions |
| Hydrafacial / Aqua Peel | Clears congestion for a temporary refinement | None | As maintenance |
Skin Botox for oily, shiny pores
Skin Botox places diluted toxin in tiny droplets just under the surface. It reduces oil and sweat activity in the treated area, which can make pores look smaller and skin less shiny, without freezing expressions. Effects last about two to three months. See skin Botox.
Pico fractional and Potenza for firmness and texture
Both work by stimulating new collagen around the pores. Pico fractional is gentler with shorter downtime; Potenza reaches deeper and suits pores combined with acne scars or active acne. See pico fractional and Potenza.
Skin boosters for skin quality
Boosters such as Rejuran Healer and Juvelook improve thickness, hydration and texture over a series. They are often combined with energy-based treatments. See our guide to skin boosters explained.
Who is a good candidate for pore treatment?
Usually a good fit
- Oily skin with visible pores on the nose and cheeks
- Elongated pores from loss of firmness
- Pores combined with shallow acne scars
- People who can commit to a short series and maintenance
Talk to the doctor first
- Active, inflamed acne (often treated first)
- Recent isotretinoin use
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pacemakers or metal implants (for RF)
- Expectation that pores will disappear completely
How a pore treatment plan is built
- Doctor assessment. A licensed doctor examines whether your pores are driven by oil, laxity, scarring or a combination.
- Choosing a primary treatment. For oil, skin Botox may come first; for laxity or scars, a collagen-building device.
- Adding support. A booster may be added to improve overall skin quality.
- Scheduling. The plan is matched to your time in Seoul and how often you can return.
- Home routine. Gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic products and sunscreen help maintain results.
Results timeline
Skin Botox usually shows reduced shine within about a week. Collagen-based results from pico fractional or Potenza appear gradually, from around four weeks after a session, and build over a series. Booster effects on skin quality also build over several weeks. Taking consistent photos in the same light helps you see the change, because pore improvements are often gradual and easy to miss in a mirror. See Potenza results for an example timeline.
Daily habits that make pores look smaller
Clinic treatments work best when the skin is looked after in between. A few habits make a noticeable difference to how pores look day to day:
- Cleanse gently, twice a day. Over-cleansing and harsh scrubs can trigger more oil and irritation.
- Use non-comedogenic products. Heavy, occlusive creams and some makeup can clog pores.
- Consider a doctor-recommended active. Ingredients such as retinoids or salicylic acid can help keep pores clear, but introduce them slowly and pause them around treatments as advised.
- Wear sunscreen daily. Sun damage breaks down collagen, which makes pores look larger over time.
- Do not squeeze. Picking at blackheads can stretch pores and leave marks.
Regular professional cleansing, such as an Aqua Peel every few weeks, can also help keep pores clear between collagen-building sessions. See our Hydrafacial and Aqua Peel page.
Risks and side effects
Each treatment has its own profile. Skin Botox can cause small temporary bumps and, rarely, subtle changes in expression if placed too deeply. Pico fractional and Potenza cause redness for one to four days and carry a small risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and temporary breakouts. Injectable boosters can cause small bumps, bruising and, rarely, nodules. A doctor-led plan that matches technique to your skin minimizes these risks.
Short trip? Skin Botox and a Hydrafacial can be done the same week with little or no downtime. If you choose Potenza, book it early in your stay. See combining treatments in one visit.
How much do large pore treatments cost in Seoul (2026)?
| Option | Coverage | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Botox, Korean toxin | Full face | ₩129,000 |
| Pico fractional, 1 session | Full face | ₩149,000 |
| Potenza, 1 session | Full face | ₩299,000 |
| Rejuran Healer, 2cc | Full face | ₩259,000 |
| Juvelook, 2cc | One zone, such as both cheeks | ₩299,000 |
| Aqua Peel, 1 session | Full face | ₩69,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026 — see VAT refund on cosmetic procedures. See our full price list.
Planning pore treatment around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Share your dates and skin concerns through our consultation form.
- Avoid your arrival day. Day two is ideal for a consultation and first treatment.
- Start with low-downtime options. Skin Botox or a booster fits most itineraries; schedule RF microneedling early if chosen.
- Getting here. Dernia is near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2). See location and directions.
Frequently asked questions
Can large pores be permanently shrunk?
No. Pore size is largely genetic, but treatments can make pores look smaller by reducing oil, clearing congestion and firming the surrounding skin. Maintenance is usually needed.
What is the best treatment for large pores in Korea?
It depends on the cause. Skin Botox suits oily pores, while pico fractional or Potenza suit pores stretched by loss of firmness or acne scarring.
How long does skin Botox for pores last?
Usually about two to three months, so many people repeat it several times a year.
Is there downtime after pore treatment?
Skin Botox and facials have little or none. Pico fractional causes 1–3 days of redness and Potenza 2–4 days.
How many sessions do I need for large pores?
Collagen-building treatments usually need a series of about three sessions or more, with gradual improvement over months.
How much do pore treatments cost in Seoul?
At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, skin Botox starts from ₩129,000, pico fractional from ₩149,000 and Potenza from ₩299,000 for the full face, excluding 10% VAT.
Want smaller-looking pores?
Tell us about your skin and travel dates. A doctor works out what is making your pores look large and recommends a realistic plan and price in English.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.