How Much Does Skin Botox Cost in South Korea?

Skin Botox (Dermatoxin) in South Korea typically ranges from $40 to $150 USD per area, with full-face treatments costing between $200 and $450 USD. This price is generally 60-70% lower than in the US or Europe. The final cost depends on the brand used (Korean brands like Botulax are cheaper than imported Xeomin) and the clinic's location. Most packages in Seoul or Busan include consultation, numbing cream, and post-procedure cooling masks.

Key Takeaways: Skin Botox in Korea

•  Huge Savings: Domestic Korean toxin brands offer high quality at 30-50% less than imported brands.
•  Specific Benefit: Unlike regular Botox, Skin Botox targets pores and oil production to create a "glass skin" effect without freezing facial expressions.
•  Quick Procedure: The treatment takes only 15-20 minutes with minimal downtime, making it perfect for short medical tourism trips.
•  VAT Refund Alert: As of 2026, the tax refund for cosmetic procedures is uncertain; travelers must confirm eligibility directly with their clinic.

Comprehensive Guide to Skin Botox in South Korea

What is the difference between Skin Botox and Regular Botox?

Understanding this distinction is crucial for setting expectations. Regular Botox is injected deep into the muscle layer to temporarily paralyze the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, such as frown lines or crow's feet. Its primary goal is to stop movement to smooth out deep lines.

Skin Botox (also known as Dermatoxin or Mesotox) is injected superficially into the dermis—the skin layer itself—rather than the muscle. It targets the sebaceous (oil) glands, sweat glands, and the erector pili muscles connected to pores. This results in tightened pores, significantly reduced oil production, and a smoother skin texture, often described as the "glass skin" glow. Importantly, it does not "freeze" your face, allowing you to retain natural facial expressions.

Why is Skin Botox so much cheaper in Korea than in the West?

The price difference is driven by competition and domestic manufacturing. South Korea is a global powerhouse in manufacturing botulinum toxin. Domestic brands such as Botulax, Nabota, and Coretox are produced locally, eliminating import tariffs and shipping costs. These brands are approved by the KFDA (Korea's FDA equivalent) and have safety profiles comparable to Western brands.

Additionally, the sheer volume of procedures performed in districts like Gangnam allows clinics to operate with lower margins per patient. While you might pay $400-$800 for a full-face micro-Botox treatment in the US, the same procedure with a high-quality Korean brand can cost as little as $200 in Seoul.

How do prices compare between Seoul and Busan?

Seoul (Gangnam, Apgujeong): As the capital of medical tourism, Seoul offers the widest range of options. "Factory-style" clinics here are incredibly affordable, sometimes offering single-area Skin Botox for under $40 USD. However, premium "boutique" clinics that offer private rooms and doctor-led consultations will charge significantly more, often $250+ for a full face.

Busan (Seomyeon Medical Street): Busan is generally 10-20% cheaper than premium Seoul clinics. It is an excellent destination for those who want a more relaxed atmosphere. The quality of care in Seomyeon is on par with Seoul, but the clinics may be less crowded, offering a more personalized experience for the price.

Is the tax refund for cosmetic procedures still available in 2026?

This is a critical update for all medical tourists. Historically, foreign tourists could claim a ~7-10% VAT refund on cosmetic procedures. However, government policies regarding this incentive have been under review for 2026. The status is currently uncertain and may have been discontinued for specific aesthetic treatments.

You should not assume you will automatically receive a refund. It is mandatory to ask your chosen clinic two questions before booking: "Are you a certified tax-refund provider?" and "Is the VAT refund program currently active for this specific procedure?" If eligible, you will need your passport and a dedicated refund slip from the clinic to claim your money at the airport.

Does the procedure hurt, and is there downtime?

Skin Botox involves dozens of tiny micro-injections across the face, which can be uncomfortable. To ensure patient comfort, almost all Korean clinics apply a strong topical numbing cream for 20-30 minutes before the procedure. With this anesthesia, most patients describe the sensation as mild pricking or pressure, not acute pain.

Regarding downtime, you may experience small raised bumps (wheals) at the injection sites immediately after the treatment, resembling mosquito bites. These typically disappear within 2 to 4 hours. Minor bruising is possible but rare. Most tourists are back to exploring the city the same evening, though makeup should be avoided until the next day.

How long do the results last?

Because Skin Botox is injected superficially and often in a more diluted form than muscle Botox, the duration is shorter. You will typically see the "glow" and pore reduction within 3-5 days, with peak results at 2 weeks. The effects generally last 2 to 3 months.

Many medical tourists view this as a quarterly maintenance treatment. To extend the results, many patients combine Skin Botox with skin boosters like Rejuran Healer (PN) or Hyaluronic Acid, which can improve skin health at a cellular level alongside the pore-tightening effects of the toxin.

Are there any side effects I should worry about?

Skin Botox is generally very safe, but it requires a skilled hand. If the injector goes too deep, the toxin can affect the underlying muscles, potentially leading to an asymmetrical smile or a stiff expression. This is why choosing a reputable clinic is vital.

Common, temporary side effects include redness, mild swelling, and the aforementioned bumps. In very rare cases, patients may experience a headache for 24 hours post-procedure. Because the toxin is injected into the skin, the risk of "droopy eyelids" (ptosis) is significantly lower than with traditional forehead Botox.

Can I combine this with other treatments?

Absolutely. In fact, "stacking" treatments is the norm in Korean dermatology. A very popular combination is the "Glass Skin Package," which often includes Skin Botox + Rejuran Healer + a hydration filler. Another common pairing is Skin Botox with energy devices like Shurink (HIFU) or InMode.

Combining treatments during one visit is efficient for medical tourists and can often lead to package discounts. However, always consult with the doctor to ensure that the combination is safe for your specific skin type.

What is the difference between Factory and Boutique clinics?

Factory Clinics: High volume, fast turnover, and very low prices. You will likely consult with a coordinator rather than a doctor, and the doctor enters only to perform the injection. These are efficient and cost-effective for standard procedures if you know exactly what you want.

Boutique Clinics: Lower volume, higher prices (often double). You get a 1-on-1 consultation with the doctor, a customized facial mapping, and a more private experience. For first-time medical tourists or those with specific concerns, a boutique clinic often provides better peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions