Guide

How can skin Botox help acne?

Acne develops when oil, dead skin cells and bacteria block the pores, triggering inflammation. Excess sebum is one of the main drivers. Skin Botox, also called micro Botox or intradermal Botox, places tiny amounts of diluted toxin in the upper dermis rather than in the muscle. There, it is thought to reduce the activity of sebaceous glands and the small muscles around pores.

The result for many patients is less shine, a smoother surface and fewer oil-related breakouts. It does not kill acne bacteria or treat deep cysts on its own, so it usually works as one part of a broader plan. Learn more on our Skin Botox (Micro Botox) page.

Who is skin Botox for acne suitable for?

Adults with oily skin, especially on the forehead, nose and cheeks
People with frequent small, oil-related breakouts and enlarged pores
Those whose skin feels greasy again within hours of cleansing
Patients wanting a smoother makeup base

It is usually less helpful for hormonal cystic acne, acne driven mainly by medication or friction, or acne that needs prescription treatment first. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, neuromuscular conditions, active infection and isotretinoin use are reasons to discuss timing carefully with the doctor.

What to expect at Re:berry Hongdae

Skin diagnosis: the doctor looks at acne type, oil levels, scarring and current skincare or medication.
Plan: skin Botox may be recommended alone or combined with other options.
Numbing: cream is applied for comfort, usually for around 20–30 minutes.
Injection: many tiny, shallow injections or a microinjection device are used across the oily zones.
After: small raised bumps may appear and typically flatten within hours.

How does it feel?

After numbing, most people describe a series of quick, light pricks. Areas with thinner skin, such as near the nose, may feel slightly sharper. The whole injection step usually takes 15–30 minutes, and you can wash your face gently that evening.

How many sessions are needed?

Many patients notice less oil within one to two weeks. A single session commonly lasts around three to four months, after which oil production gradually returns. Some people repeat every three to four months during periods when their skin is oiliest, such as Seoul's humid summer. Results vary by individual.

What can it be combined with?

Because acne has several causes, combination planning is central to Re:berry's approach. Options your doctor may discuss include:

HydraFacial: deep cleansing and extraction to clear congested pores. See HydraFacial for acne.
Laser treatments: such as Genesis laser for redness and post-acne marks.
Skin boosters: for barrier support once active inflammation is controlled.
Medical skincare: appropriate cleansers, topical treatments and sunscreen.

What are the side effects?

Side effects are usually mild: redness, tiny bumps, pinpoint bruising and temporary tenderness. Because the dose is very diluted, the risk of affecting expression is low, but slight changes in facial movement can occur, particularly near the forehead or around the mouth. Avoid rubbing the skin, saunas and intense exercise for the rest of the day.

How to support results at home

Skin Botox reduces oil, but daily habits still matter. A gentle, low-pH cleanser, a lightweight non-comedogenic moisturizer and daily sunscreen help keep pores clear without stripping the barrier. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can increase inflammation, and try not to pick at spots, since this raises the risk of marks and scarring. If you exercise in Hongdae's summer heat, cleanse soon afterward.

What are the alternatives?

Prescription topicals or oral medication for moderate to severe acne
Regular professional cleansing and extraction
Light- or laser-based treatments for inflammation and marks
Scar-focused treatment once acne is controlled, covered on our acne scars page

Skin Botox vs other oil-control options

Compared with topical products, skin Botox acts from within the dermis and does not depend on daily application, which some people find convenient. Compared with oral acne medication, it is localized and does not affect the whole body, but it is also less powerful for moderate or severe inflammatory acne. Many patients use it as a bridge: oil control from skin Botox, with medical skincare handling the rest.

Booking in Hongdae

Pricing depends on the treated area, dose and plan, and is confirmed in writing at consultation. Find the address and opening hours on our Location & Hours page, and book through our Booking page.

Does skin Botox stop acne completely?

No. Skin Botox may reduce oil production, which helps some people with oil-related breakouts, but acne has several causes, including bacteria, hormones and clogged pores. Most patients get better results when it is combined with good skincare and, if needed, medical acne treatment. Results vary by individual.

Can I use skin Botox while on isotretinoin?

Tell the doctor if you take isotretinoin or have taken it recently. Many clinics adjust the timing of procedures for people on this medication because the skin can be more fragile. The doctor will decide whether skin Botox is appropriate now or should wait until your course is complete.

Will skin Botox make my face look frozen?

It is not intended to. Skin Botox uses very diluted toxin placed superficially, so it mainly affects the skin rather than expression muscles. Some people notice slight changes in movement, especially on the forehead. The doctor adjusts placement and dose to keep expressions natural.