Skin Botox, often called microbotox, is a Korean favorite for smaller-looking pores, less shine and smoother texture. Here is what it costs in Seoul, how brand and area change the price, and how to budget for maintenance.
Skin Botox (microbotox) in Korea is priced by area and toxin brand. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, full-face skin Botox costs ₩129,000 with a Korean toxin, ₩199,000 for the face and neck with a Korean toxin, ₩259,000 with Xeomin and ₩349,000 with Allergan Botox (KRW, excluding 10% VAT). Treatment takes 20–30 minutes plus numbing, small bumps settle within a few hours, and the smoother, less oily look usually lasts two to three months. A doctor confirms suitability and price before treatment.
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
What is skin Botox (microbotox)?
Skin Botox, also known as microbotox, micro Botox or derma Botox, uses a diluted botulinum toxin placed in many tiny droplets just under the surface of the skin. Regular wrinkle Botox goes deeper into the muscle to relax expressions; skin Botox stays superficial. The aim is to reduce oil production and the activity of tiny muscles attached to the skin, which can make pores look smaller, reduce shine and give a smoother, more refined finish.
Because it does not target the main expression muscles, skin Botox is designed to leave your expressions natural. It is popular in Korea as part of a glass skin routine and as a pre-event treatment. Learn more on our skin Botox treatment page.
How much does skin Botox cost in Korea (2026)?
| Toxin | Area | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Korean toxin | Full face | ₩129,000 |
| Korean toxin | Full face and neck | ₩199,000 |
| Xeomin (Germany) | Full face | ₩259,000 |
| Botox (Allergan, USA) | Full face | ₩349,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed at consultation. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026. Full details are on the skin Botox price page.
What affects the price of microbotox?
- Toxin brand. Korean toxins are the most affordable. Imported Xeomin and Allergan Botox cost noticeably more for the same area.
- Area covered. Full face is the standard; adding the neck uses more product and costs more.
- Combination with other treatments. Skin Botox is often paired with boosters or lasers, which changes your overall budget.
- VAT. Prices in Korea are often quoted before 10% VAT.
Unlike lifting devices, skin Botox does not involve shot counts or cartridges, so quotes are fairly simple to compare. Make sure you are comparing the same area and the same brand.
Korean toxin or imported for skin Botox?
Because skin Botox uses a diluted toxin spread across a wide area, Korean toxins are a common choice and keep the treatment affordable enough to repeat. Some people prefer Xeomin, a purified toxin without complexing proteins, particularly if they have regular toxin treatments on several areas. Others choose Allergan Botox because it is the brand they know from home. The doctor can explain the trade-offs, but for most people the technique and dilution matter more than the brand. Read Korean Botox brands explained for background.
Checking value when you compare quotes
When comparing clinics, ask what the price covers. Is it the full face, or only the cheeks or T-zone? Is numbing included? Which toxin is used, and is the vial opened in front of you? A clear, written plan agreed with a doctor before treatment is the simplest way to know what you are paying for.
How often do you need skin Botox, and what is the yearly budget?
Skin Botox usually lasts about two to three months, which is shorter than wrinkle Botox. People who want a consistent result typically repeat it three to four times a year. With a Korean toxin on the full face at Dernia, that is about ₩387,000–₩516,000 per year before VAT. Many visitors simply have it before special trips or events rather than on a strict schedule.
Skin Botox vs skin boosters: which should you choose?
Skin Botox and hyaluronic acid skin boosters are often confused, but they work differently. Skin Botox targets oil and pore appearance, while HA boosters add hydration. For dry skin, a booster may help more; for oily, shiny skin with visible pores, skin Botox is often the better match. Many people combine both.
| Point | Skin Botox | HA skin booster |
|---|---|---|
| Main effect | Less oil, smaller-looking pores, smoother finish | Hydration, plumpness and glow |
| Best for | Oily, shiny or large-pored skin | Dry or dehydrated skin |
| Results last | About 2–3 months | About 1–3 months |
| Dernia price from | ₩129,000 (full face) | ₩99,000 (2cc) |
Compare them in more depth in skin Botox vs HA skin booster.
Who is a good candidate for skin Botox?
Usually a good fit
- Oily skin with visible shine through the day
- Enlarged-looking pores on the cheeks, nose or forehead
- Fine crepey lines or a rough surface
- Visitors who want a refined look before an event
Talk to the doctor first
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Neuromuscular conditions
- Active acne flare or skin infection in the area
- Very dry skin, where a booster may suit better
If pores are your main concern, also see large pore treatments, which explains lasers and RF options that work on pore structure.
What happens during skin Botox treatment
- English consultation. A doctor checks your skin type, oil level and pore pattern, and agrees the area, brand and price with you.
- Numbing. Numbing cream is applied for about 20–30 minutes, because skin Botox uses many small injection points.
- Injection. Tiny droplets of diluted toxin are placed evenly across the area, either by hand or with an injector.
- Soothing. Small bumps appear and usually settle within a few hours. You receive written aftercare in English.
Skin Botox results and side effects
Most people notice a smoother, less oily finish within about a week, with the full effect around two weeks. Results are subtle: pores look more refined rather than disappearing, and shine reduces rather than stopping completely.
Common effects are small bumps, redness and occasional pinpoint bruising. Because the toxin is placed superficially, it is designed not to affect expressions, but if placed too deep or in too high a concentration, some people notice a slightly stiff smile or weakness around the mouth, which is temporary. Allergic reactions are rare. Choosing a doctor experienced with this technique reduces the risk. See the skin Botox results timeline.
- Avoid makeup over injection points for the rest of the day.
- Do not massage or rub the treated area for several hours.
- Skip saunas and intense exercise on treatment day.
Flying home? Bumps from skin Botox usually settle within a few hours, so most people can fly the next day. Avoid lying flat or rubbing your face for about four hours after treatment. See flying after Botox and fillers.
Planning skin Botox around your Seoul trip
- Book early. Results take about a week to show and two weeks to peak, so treat early in your stay if you want to see them before you leave.
- Avoid your arrival day. Schedule for day two or later.
- Combine sensibly. Skin Botox pairs well with boosters or toning; ask the doctor how to sequence them. The Glass Skin package is one ready-made option.
- Book ahead. Send your dates through our consultation form.
- Getting here. Dernia is in Myeongdong, near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
Skin Botox is a quick appointment that fits easily around shopping and sightseeing in central Seoul, which is why it is often part of a first visit for international patients.
Frequently asked questions
How much is skin Botox in Korea?
At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, full-face skin Botox costs ₩129,000 with a Korean toxin, up to ₩349,000 with Allergan Botox, excluding 10% VAT.
Is skin Botox the same as microbotox?
Yes. Skin Botox, microbotox and micro Botox are names for the same technique of placing diluted toxin superficially in the skin.
How long does skin Botox last?
Usually about two to three months, which is shorter than wrinkle Botox.
Will skin Botox freeze my face?
It is designed not to, because it is placed superficially rather than into the main expression muscles. Rarely, a slightly stiff smile can occur and is temporary.
Is skin Botox good for large pores?
It can make pores look smaller and reduce shine, especially in oily skin. For deeper pore structure, lasers or RF microneedling may be added.
Can I combine skin Botox with a skin booster?
Yes, this is a common combination. Your doctor will advise on timing and products for your skin.
Planning skin Botox in Seoul?
Tell us about your skin and your travel dates. A doctor will check whether skin Botox suits you, recommend a brand and confirm the price before treatment.
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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.