Skin Botox, also called micro Botox, places tiny diluted doses of botulinum toxin into the upper skin rather than the muscle. At Re:berry Hongdae, it may be used to reduce oil output and make enlarged pores look smaller on the cheeks, nose and forehead. Effects typically appear within one to two weeks and last about 2 to 4 months.
Re:berry Clinic Hongdae · Information reviewed for accuracy · Results vary by individual.
Why do pores look enlarged?
Pores do not open and close, but they can look larger. The main drivers are excess sebum stretching the pore opening, loss of skin elasticity around the pore with age, buildup of dead cells and oil, and genetics. Oily skin types, common among younger adults and in Seoul's humid summers, tend to show pores most on the nose, inner cheeks and forehead. Our Enlarged Pores page covers all causes and options.
How does skin Botox reduce pore size?
Skin Botox uses a diluted botulinum toxin injected in many tiny points into the dermis. At this depth, the toxin is thought to reduce activity of the sebaceous glands and the tiny muscles attached to hair follicles. The practical effects many patients report are:
- Less shine through the day
- Pores that look smaller and smoother
- A finer skin texture that makes makeup sit more evenly
Because it is placed superficially, the aim is not to freeze expressions. Your doctor adjusts dilution and placement to avoid affecting facial movement. For the treatment itself, see Skin Botox (Micro Botox).
Who is skin Botox suitable for?
It may suit you if:
- Your pores are enlarged mainly because of oiliness
- You want a low-downtime option before an event or trip
- You have mild texture issues and want smoother-looking skin
It is less effective when pores look large mainly because of age-related laxity or scarring. In those cases, collagen-stimulating treatments usually do more.
Who should avoid it?
Skin Botox is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in people with certain neuromuscular conditions, with infection at the treatment site and in those allergic to botulinum toxin products. Tell the doctor about any medications, including some antibiotics, that may interact.
What to expect during treatment
- The doctor examines pore distribution and oil levels across your face.
- Numbing cream is applied for about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Many shallow micro-injections are placed across the selected zones.
- Small wheals appear and usually flatten within a few hours.
Avoid rubbing the face, lying flat for a few hours and intense exercise the same day. For more on how this differs from muscle Botox, read What is skin Botox?
How long does it last and how often is it repeated?
Most people notice a change within one to two weeks, with effects lasting about 2 to 4 months. Maintenance is usually planned every 3 to 4 months if you like the result. Results vary by individual and depend on oil levels, skin type and season.
What can be combined with skin Botox?
Re:berry often recommends pairing skin Botox with treatments that address other pore drivers:
- HydraFacial: Clears congestion first so the pore opening is cleaner.
- Collagen-stimulating devices: Thermage FLX or Sofwave can improve laxity around pores.
- Skin boosters: Rejuran Healer or CellREDM may support texture over a course.
- Laser toning or Genesis: Can refine texture and tone in the same plan.
Combination timing is set by your doctor; some treatments are done on the same day, others spaced a week or two apart.
What are the alternatives?
If laxity is the main cause, Thermage FLX for Enlarged Pores or Sofwave for Enlarged Pores may be more relevant. For congestion and active breakouts, medical-grade skincare, HydraFacial or acne-focused treatments come first. Many patients end up with a layered plan rather than a single solution.
Side effects to know
Common effects are pinpoint bruising, temporary bumps and mild redness. Uncommonly, toxin placed too deep or spread can temporarily weaken nearby muscles, which can affect a smile; this usually resolves as the product wears off. Some people notice slightly drier skin, so a lighter hydrating moisturizer can help.
Planning skin Botox at Re:berry Hongdae
With minimal downtime, skin Botox can fit into a short Seoul visit. Pricing depends on areas and plan and is confirmed in writing at consultation. Visit Location & Hours for branch details and request an appointment on the Booking page.
Key facts
- Treatment time: About 15 to 20 minutes after numbing
- Downtime: Small bumps and redness for a few hours; occasional bruising
- Results seen: Usually within 7 to 14 days
- Lasts: Roughly 2 to 4 months
- Sessions: Single treatment, repeated as maintenance
- Best for: Oily skin with enlarged-looking pores on the T-zone and cheeks
Frequently asked questions
Does skin Botox make pores disappear?
No treatment makes pores disappear, because pores are a normal part of skin. Skin Botox can make them look smaller and less noticeable, mainly by reducing oil. The change is temporary, so maintenance is needed if you want to keep the effect.
Will skin Botox change my facial expressions?
It is designed not to. The toxin is diluted and placed superficially in the skin rather than into muscles. Occasionally, a smile can feel slightly different for a short time if product reaches muscle, which usually settles as it wears off.
Is skin Botox good for men's pores?
Many men have oilier skin and larger pores, so skin Botox is a common choice. Thicker male skin and beard areas may affect planning, and the doctor will adjust zones and dosing. It is often combined with a HydraFacial or texture-focused laser.
Keep reading
Before you book
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Suitability, dose, number of sessions and expected results are decided by a doctor at consultation, and results vary by individual. Possible side effects include redness, swelling and bruising. Pricing is confirmed in writing before any treatment. See our medical disclaimer.
Start with a diagnosis, not a package
Re:berry Clinic Hongdae designs your plan after a one-to-one skin assessment. Multilingual consultation support is available.