Treatment

What is skin Botox?

Skin Botox is a technique, not a different product. It uses the same botulinum toxin type A as wrinkle Botox, but diluted further and injected in very small amounts into the superficial layers of the skin. The goal is to influence skin structures such as sebaceous glands, sweat glands and the fine muscle fibers that attach to the skin, rather than to stop facial expressions.

The technique is also called micro Botox, intradermal Botox or mesobotox. In Korea it is a popular way to refine skin texture for people who want smoother-looking skin without a frozen look.

How does skin Botox work?

Oil control: Toxin may reduce signaling to sebaceous glands, which can lower visible shine for many patients. See Does skin Botox reduce oil?
Pore appearance: With less oil and slightly relaxed surface fibers, pores can look smaller and tighter.
Fine texture: Tiny crepey lines, for example on the cheeks or neck, may look smoother.
Jawline definition: Placed along the lower face and neck, it can soften fine bands for a slightly crisper outline.

Skin Botox vs regular Botox

Both use the same family of products, but the approach differs in purpose, depth and pattern.

Regular Botox for wrinkles: Fewer injections into specific muscles to relax expression lines such as frown lines or crow's feet.
Skin Botox: Many shallow injections spread across an area, using a diluted solution, to improve skin quality while keeping normal movement.
Jaw Botox: Deeper injections into the masseter muscle to slim a square jaw over several weeks.

These approaches can be combined in a single visit when the doctor considers it appropriate.

Who is skin Botox suitable for?

Skin Botox tends to suit adults who are bothered by:

A shiny T-zone or oiliness that returns within hours of cleansing
Pores that look prominent on the nose, cheeks or forehead
Fine crepey texture or a slightly rough surface
Mild facial flushing, as a supporting option alongside other treatments
An upcoming event where smooth-looking skin is a priority

It is not a treatment for active inflammatory acne on its own, deep acne scars or significant sagging. Those concerns usually need lasers, boosters or lifting. It is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and in people with certain neuromuscular conditions or an allergy to toxin ingredients.

What happens during the treatment?

Consultation: The doctor examines your skin type, pore pattern and oil level, and decides on areas and dilution.
Numbing: Topical numbing cream is typically applied for around 20–30 minutes.
Injection: Small droplets are placed in a grid with a fine needle or a multi-needle injector. This usually takes 10–15 minutes.
Finish: Small raised bumps appear at the injection points and typically settle within a few hours.

Results and how long they last

Many patients notice less shine and a smoother surface within a few days, with the full effect usually visible at one to two weeks. Results commonly last three to four months, sometimes a little shorter on very oily skin. Maintenance is optional and spaced according to how your skin responds. Results vary by individual.

Side effects and risks

Small bumps, redness and pinpoint bleeding at injection sites, usually short-lived
Occasional bruising, more likely if you take blood-thinning supplements
Rarely, temporary changes to smile or expression if product spreads to nearby muscles
Very rarely, allergic reaction

Choosing an experienced injector and appropriate dilution helps reduce the risk of unwanted effects on expression.

Aftercare

For the rest of the day, avoid pressing or massaging the treated area, strenuous exercise, saunas and alcohol. You can usually wash your face gently the same evening and apply light makeup the next day. Our Botox and filler aftercare guide has more detail.

Which areas can be treated?

Skin Botox is flexible in where it is placed. Common areas at Re:berry Hongdae include:

T-zone: Forehead and nose, where oil and pores are usually most visible.
Cheeks: For enlarged pores and fine crepey texture across the mid-face.
Jawline and neck: For a slightly sharper lower-face outline and smoother-looking neck skin.
Full face: For overall refinement before an event.

The doctor may leave out areas around the mouth or adjust dilution there to protect natural movement when you smile and speak.

Is skin Botox popular with men?

Yes. Men often have thicker skin, larger pores and higher oil production, so skin Botox is a common request from male patients in Hongdae. The technique and aftercare are the same, although dosing may be adapted to skin thickness.

Combining skin Botox

Skin Botox is often paired with treatments that address different layers. For pores, it may be combined with energy-based tightening; for texture and glow, with a booster or HydraFacial. Because Re:berry designs combinations rather than single procedures, the doctor will suggest an order that makes sense for your skin and schedule.

Pricing and booking

Pricing depends on the area, the amount of product and the overall plan, and is confirmed in writing at consultation. Book through our Booking page.

Will skin Botox freeze my face?

Skin Botox is designed to stay in the superficial skin layers using a diluted solution, so normal expressions are usually preserved. Occasionally, product near the mouth or cheeks can slightly affect a smile for a few weeks. An experienced injector chooses depth and placement to reduce that risk, and effects wear off as the toxin is metabolized.

Is skin Botox good for acne?

Skin Botox may help oily, acne-prone skin by reducing sebum, which can be one factor in breakouts. It does not treat bacteria or inflammation directly, so it is usually used alongside other acne treatments rather than alone. Active, painful acne should be assessed by a doctor first.

How often can I get skin Botox?

Many patients repeat skin Botox every three to four months when the effect fades. Repeating too frequently is generally avoided, as it may increase the chance of the body developing resistance to the toxin over time. Your doctor will suggest an interval based on your response.

Can I fly after skin Botox?

Most people can fly the same day or the next day after skin Botox. Bumps usually settle within hours. Avoid rubbing your face, wearing tight eye masks over treated areas and drinking alcohol on the flight, and keep your skin hydrated in dry cabin air.