Profhilo is a high-concentration hyaluronic acid injectable that spreads through the skin to hydrate and firm it, rather than to add shape. Here is how it works, what remodeling really means and how to plan it on a trip to Seoul.
Profhilo is a high-concentration hyaluronic acid (HA) injectable made by IBSA. It combines high and low molecular weight HA stabilized by heat rather than chemical cross-linkers, so it spreads through the skin to improve hydration, softness and firmness instead of adding volume. The standard plan is two sessions about four weeks apart, using five injection points on each side of the face, with results lasting about six months. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong in Seoul, Profhilo starts from ₩390,000 for one 2ml syringe (KRW, excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
What is Profhilo?
Profhilo is an injectable made by the Swiss-Italian company IBSA. It contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid (HA) in two forms: high molecular weight HA and low molecular weight HA. Instead of being linked together with chemical cross-linkers, as in most fillers, the two are combined using a heat-based process. The result is a fluid gel that spreads easily through the skin after injection.
That spreading quality is the key to how Profhilo is used. It is not designed to fill a hollow or shape a feature. Instead, it aims to improve the overall quality of the skin: hydration, softness, bounce and firmness. Read more on our Profhilo treatment page.
How does Profhilo hydrate the skin?
Hyaluronic acid is a molecule your skin already produces. It holds large amounts of water, which keeps skin plump and supple. Natural HA levels decline with age, sun exposure and dehydration, and skin starts to look flatter and less elastic.
When Profhilo is injected, its HA spreads through the dermis and binds water there. Many people notice softer, more hydrated skin within the first couple of weeks. Because the HA is concentrated, the hydration effect is stronger and longer-lasting than simple surface moisturizers can achieve.
What does skin remodeling mean with Profhilo?
Profhilo is often described as a bio-remodeling treatment. In simple terms, the idea is that the HA, released gradually into the skin, supports the cells that maintain the skin's structure, including those that produce collagen and elastin. Over time, this may help skin feel firmer and more resilient, not just more hydrated.
It is important to keep expectations realistic. Remodeling here refers to subtle improvements in skin quality and firmness. Profhilo is not a lifting treatment and does not replace devices or threads for sagging. Compare it with polynucleotide boosters in Rejuran Healer vs Profhilo.
Profhilo vs other hydrating boosters in Korea
Korean clinics offer many hydrating injectables, so it helps to see where Profhilo fits. A basic HA skin booster uses many small injections of lighter HA for a quick glow that usually lasts one to three months and is often repeated as a series. Skinvive uses microdroplets of HA for smoothness and glow in a single session. Profhilo uses far fewer injection points and relies on its high HA concentration to spread, with a two-session plan aimed at hydration and firmness together. None is universally better; the right choice depends on your skin, your schedule and whether you mainly want glow, smoothness or firmness. Read skin boosters explained for a wider comparison.
Profhilo is also commonly used on the neck, where skin is thin and crepey lines show early. Because the product spreads rather than sitting in one spot, it suits areas where filler could look lumpy. The décolletage and backs of the hands are other areas some doctors treat. Your doctor will suggest which areas are worth treating based on your skin.
Who is a good candidate for Profhilo?
Usually a good fit
- Dry, dull or dehydrated skin that lacks bounce
- Early laxity and crepey texture on the face or neck
- People who want improvement without volume or shape change
- Those who can return for a second session after about 4 weeks
Talk to the doctor first
- Allergy to hyaluronic acid products
- Active acne, cold sores or skin infection
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Main concern is volume loss or significant sagging
What happens on treatment day
- English consultation. A licensed doctor examines your skin and confirms how many syringes you need.
- Cleansing. The skin is cleaned; numbing is often not needed because there are few injection points, but it can be applied.
- Injection. Small amounts are placed at five points on each side of the face, a technique sometimes called BAP (bio aesthetic points).
- Settling. Small bumps appear at each point and the gel begins to spread. You receive written aftercare.
The injection itself typically takes around 15 minutes. The neck, décolletage and hands can also be treated with additional syringes.
Profhilo results timeline
| When | What you may notice |
|---|---|
| Day 0–1 | Small bumps at injection points that flatten within about 24 hours |
| Week 1–2 | Skin feels softer and more hydrated |
| Week 4 | Second session to build on the first |
| Weeks 6–8 | Best hydration and firmness for most people |
| About 6 months | Effect gradually fades; maintenance as advised |
These are typical ranges rather than promises. See Profhilo results for more detail.
Recovery and aftercare
Recovery is quick. The small bumps at the injection points are the main visible sign and usually settle within about 24 hours as the gel spreads.
- Avoid makeup for the rest of the treatment day.
- Skip saunas, jjimjilbang, hot baths, intense exercise and alcohol for a day or two.
- Do not massage the injection points unless your doctor advises it.
- Pause retinol and exfoliating acids for a few days.
- Use sunscreen daily to protect skin quality.
Is Profhilo safe? Side effects and risks
Profhilo has a good safety record when performed by a trained doctor. Common side effects include small bumps, redness, tenderness and occasional bruising at injection points, usually short-lived.
Less common effects include longer-lasting swelling or small lumps. As with any HA injection in the face, there is a rare risk of injection into a blood vessel, which is why anatomy knowledge and careful technique matter. Infection and allergic reactions are rare. If you notice increasing pain, skin color changes or spreading redness, contact the clinic straight away. Read side effects and when to contact us.
How much does Profhilo cost in Seoul (2026)?
| Plan | Typical coverage | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 syringe (2ml) | Face, one session | ₩390,000 |
| 2 syringes | Face and neck | ₩740,000 |
| 3 syringes | Face, neck and décolletage or hands | ₩1,050,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The standard plan is two sessions, so budget for one syringe per area at each session. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026. Full details on the Profhilo price page.
Planning Profhilo around your Seoul trip
The two-session schedule is the main planning challenge for visitors. If you stay in Seoul for four weeks or more, both sessions can fit into one trip. Otherwise, many people have the first session in Seoul and the second on a return visit or with a trusted doctor at home.
- Book ahead. Send your dates through our consultation form so we can plan session timing around your stay.
- Avoid your arrival day. Treat from day two onward.
- Allow a day before events. Bumps are visible for up to 24 hours.
- Getting here. Dernia is in Myeongdong, near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2). See location & directions.
Flying home? Most people can fly the next day after Profhilo. Drink water on the plane and avoid touching the injection points. If you cannot return for session two, read what if I cannot finish a series.
Frequently asked questions
Is Profhilo a filler?
No. Profhilo is made of hyaluronic acid, but it spreads through the skin to improve hydration and firmness rather than adding volume or shape.
How many Profhilo sessions do I need?
The standard plan is two sessions about four weeks apart, followed by maintenance around every six months.
How long does Profhilo last?
Results usually last about six months after the initial two sessions.
Does Profhilo hurt?
Most people find it tolerable because there are only five injection points on each side of the face. Numbing cream can be applied if you prefer.
Can I do only one Profhilo session?
You may notice some improvement after one session, but the full effect is designed around two. Your doctor can advise on the best option for your travel schedule.
How much is Profhilo at Dernia?
Profhilo starts from ₩390,000 for one 2ml syringe, and ₩740,000 for two syringes covering the face and neck, excluding 10% VAT.
Considering Profhilo in Seoul?
Share your skin concerns and travel dates. A doctor examines your skin in person, explains in English how to fit both sessions into your plans, and confirms the price first.
Book a consultation View 2026 pricesRelated reading
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.