Skin Botox distributes small amounts of Botox widely in the superficial skin to reduce sebum secretion and fine muscle movements.
Instead of physically shrinking pores, this method focuses on controlling sebum and oil production, which makes pores appear less noticeable.
Therefore, if the goal is to improve the structure of the pores themselves, other approaches may also be necessary.
➊What is a skin botox procedure?
SkinBotox involves injecting a very small amount of Botox into the superficial layers of the skin, over a wide area, rather than into the muscles.
Because it spreads shallowly near the skin surface rather than directly targeting the larger muscles that move facial expressions, it is known as a way to influence sebum secretion, fine lines, and pore visibility while maintaining natural expressions.
Many people seeking skin Botox near Cheongdam feel that their pores look large or that excess oil causes their makeup to break down easily.
Skin Botox is often mentioned for these concerns, but it is important to understand exactly how it works.
➋How does skin Botox affect pores?
SkinBotox is not a procedure that physically narrows pores.
It has been reported to act around sebaceous glands to reduce sebum secretion; the effect is closer to easing the appearance of pores enlarged by oil.
Therefore, it's more accurate to understand that the pores are not actually shrinking, but rather that they appear less noticeable due to the regulation of oil.
Additionally, the subtle muscle contractions in the superficial layers of the skin decrease, resulting in a smoother appearance.
| Category | Anticipated changes |
|---|---|
| Sebum secretion | A tendency to decrease temporarily |
| Pore size | Less noticeable appearance rather than structural shrinking |
| Skin texture | Reported improvement in the appearance of smoothness |
If the pores are fundamentally enlarged, it is unlikely that using only skin botox will produce significant results.
I will explain this in more detail later.
➌What's the difference between general Botox and skin Botox?
Conventional Botox targets specific muscles at depth, such as those of the forehead, between the brows, or around the eyes, to reduce movement itself.
However, because Skin Botox is injected in small amounts throughout the face, primarily into the superficial layers of the skin, it doesn't typically cause significant changes in facial expressions.
Since the two procedures differ in terms of depth and purpose, it's more accurate to consider them as having different applications depending on the nature of the problem being addressed, rather than one being superior to the other.
| Category | Standard Botox | Skin Botox |
|---|---|---|
| Injection depth | Muscle layers | Superficial layers of the skin |
| Main objective | Reduction of expression lines | Improvement in sebum, pores, and skin texture |
| Facial expressions | Some change | Hardly noticeable |
"Skin Botox is more like a treatment that focuses on managing the oil and texture of the skin's surface, rather than a procedure that freezes facial expressions."
➍When do the effects begin to be felt, and how long will they last?
Reports indicate that the effects of Skin Botox are typically noticeable within 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure.
The effect tends to develop more gradually than conventional Botox. It is generally known to last around 2–3 months, although this varies with skin condition and oil production.
Because the effects are not permanent, many people choose to undergo the treatment repeatedly over a period of time to maintain the desired state.
Since the optimal interval varies from person to person, it is recommended to discuss this with your doctor during your consultation.
➎What are the potential side effects and precautions to be taken?
"Skin Botox" is known as a relatively safe procedure, but it is not without potential side effects.
Swelling, bruising, and temporary redness may occur at the injection sites. Rarely, facial expressions may feel slightly awkward.
If the dosage is excessive or the injection is performed at an incorrect depth, it can result in unnatural facial expressions or affect muscle control, so it is essential to undergo treatment with qualified medical professionals who have sufficient experience to ensure safety.
Please inform the doctor or nurse about any medications you are taking or any allergies you have before the procedure.
➏Who is this suitable for, and who needs to reconsider?
The patients I typically recommend Skin Botox to are those who primarily experience issues such as makeup fading quickly or having rough-looking skin due to excessive oil production.
For people who want to refine the skin surface while minimizing changes to their expressions, this procedure alone often produces a satisfying change.
On the other hand, if you have naturally wide pores or experience hollowing, and are hoping for a change in the size of your pores themselves, then the situation is different.
In such cases, it's more appropriate to recommend a combination of treatments targeting pores and skin texture, rather than just Skin Botox, as that allows for a more accurate and honest assessment in the clinic.
- ✓ Excess oil or makeup breaking down: consider skin Botox as the main approach
- ✓ Pore structure is a concern: Combination therapy may be necessary.
- ✓ Want to minimize changes to facial expressions: skin Botox may be suitable
The role of a doctor is to determine the appropriate course of treatment by considering factors such as the cause of pores, the amount of oil, and skin thickness.
Results may vary from person to person.
"Having concerns about pores doesn't mean everyone needs the same treatment. It's important to first identify the underlying cause."
QFrequently asked questions
The effects are temporary.
Over time, as sebum production returns to its previous level, pores may gradually become noticeable again. Regular care tailored to individual differences is therefore needed.
Traditional Botox targets specific muscles to reduce movement, while Skin Botox spreads more broadly and superficially, preserving facial expressions while also addressing issues related to sebum, oil, and elasticity.
If the size of the pores is already large or if there is accompanying hollowing, Skin Botox alone may not be sufficient.
In such cases, it would be worthwhile to consider combining treatments for pore and skin texture management.
Because the injections are administered in multiple areas using a fine needle, there may be a slight stinging sensation. However, it is possible to return to normal daily activities without a separate recovery period.
However, some swelling or minor bruising may occur and last for a few days.
After examining the skin condition and the size and oiliness of the pores, the appropriate injection area and depth are determined.
This involves a consultation process to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the patient's individual condition, and the results can vary from person to person.
"Skin Botox" is not a procedure that eliminates pores, but rather a treatment that aims to improve skin texture by regulating sebum, which is one of the factors that causes pores to appear enlarged.
It is important to understand that "Skin Botox" primarily focuses on improving oil and skin texture rather than significantly reducing pores.
You can determine the underlying cause of your pore concerns and whether Skin Botox is an appropriate treatment by consulting with a doctor.
Please consult with LUNN Clinic.
Dr. Park Hyungkwon, Director and Dermatologist at LUNN Clinic
As disclosed under Article 56 of the Medical Service Act, this procedure may cause side effects, including swelling, bruising, redness, and temporarily unnatural facial expressions.
Treatment and procedure results may vary depending on the individual’s condition.
This column is intended to provide medical information.
