Wrinkles & Fine Lines — Treatment Options in Seoul
Wrinkles and fine lines are one of the most common concerns that bring international visitors to clinics in Seoul. Static wrinkles that remain visible even at rest, and dynamic lines that appear with facial movement, both tend to become more noticeable with age, sun exposure, and repeated muscle contraction. For patients researching a deep wrinkles treatment Seoul clinics offer, Botox-based injectables are typically the first option discussed, since they target the underlying muscle activity or superficial skin texture that contributes to line formation. This page explains how these treatments work, who they tend to suit, and what a typical visit involves.
What the Treatment Involves
At DERNA Clinic, two Botox-based options are commonly used to address wrinkles and fine lines. Face Botox is injected into specific facial muscles after an assessment of individual muscle movement patterns, which helps the doctor decide placement across areas such as the forehead, glabella, crow's feet, and masseter region. It is available in Allergan, Xeomin, and Coretox formulations. Skin Botox, sometimes called micro-Botox, is injected more superficially into the skin layer itself rather than into muscle. This approach is generally used to address pore appearance, oil control, and fine surface texture rather than deeper expression lines. Both are offered as part of a broader approach to a deep wrinkles treatment Seoul patients may consider alongside other skin care routines.
Who It Suits
Face Botox is generally considered by adults who notice expression lines forming on the forehead, between the brows, or around the eyes, particularly when these lines are still responsive to muscle relaxation rather than fixed by long-term skin changes. Skin Botox tends to suit patients whose main concern is skin texture, enlarged pores, or oiliness rather than deep folds. Because individual anatomy, skin thickness, and muscle strength vary, results and suitability differ from person to person, and a consultation is used to determine which option, or combination, may be appropriate.
Who Should Avoid It
Botox injections are not suitable for everyone. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those with certain neuromuscular disorders, or those with active skin infections in the treatment area are generally advised against these procedures. People taking blood-thinning medication may be asked to discuss this with the doctor beforehand, as it can affect bruising risk. Anyone with a known allergy to botulinum toxin products should not proceed. This information is general; a full medical history review during consultation is the appropriate way to confirm suitability for any individual.
How the Session Goes
A typical visit begins with a consultation where the doctor reviews the patient's concerns, examines facial muscle movement, and discusses realistic expectations. For Face Botox, the doctor marks the injection sites and administers the product using a fine needle, with the procedure itself generally taking between five and fifteen minutes. Skin Botox involves a series of shallow micro-injections across a broader area of skin rather than into specific muscle points, which can take a similar or slightly longer amount of time depending on the treatment zone. No general anesthesia is required for either treatment, though topical numbing cream may be offered if needed.
Downtime and Recovery
Most patients return to daily activities immediately after treatment. Mild redness, small bumps at injection sites, or minor bruising can occur and usually settle within a few days. Full effects of Face Botox are not immediate; visible softening of muscle-related lines generally develops gradually over one to two weeks as the product takes effect. Skin Botox results, related to pore appearance and texture, may also take a similar period to become apparent. Results vary between individuals and are not permanent, with effects typically diminishing over time, which is why repeat sessions are often part of an ongoing routine. Patients are usually advised to avoid vigorous exercise, saunas, and lying flat for several hours after injection, and to avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area.
Pricing
Listed prices reflect the treatment cost in Korean won at DERNA Clinic; VAT and any additional consultation fees may vary and should be confirmed before booking.
| Treatment | Price (KRW) | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Face Botox | 33,000 | 5–15 minutes |
| Skin Botox | 99,000 | Varies by area treated |
Safety Considerations
Botox treatments are widely used and generally considered low-risk when administered by a trained physician, but no injectable procedure is entirely free of risk. Possible side effects include temporary bruising, swelling, headache, or, less commonly, asymmetry or eyelid drooping if the product diffuses beyond the intended muscle. These effects are usually temporary and resolve as the product wears off. Choosing a licensed clinic and disclosing full medical history helps reduce avoidable risks. DERNA Clinic's team includes doctors such as Ko Bumjun, an otolaryngologist and nose and face contour specialist who is English fluent, along with other physicians on staff, some of whom are noted as English conversational, which can be relevant for international patients coordinating consultations in English.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to see results after Botox for wrinkles?
Most patients begin to notice changes within a few days, with fuller effects typically visible after one to two weeks, though timing can vary between individuals.
Is deep wrinkles treatment in Seoul painful?
Discomfort is usually minor and brief, often described as a light pinching sensation; topical numbing cream can be requested if a patient prefers additional comfort during injection.
How long do the effects of Face Botox typically last?
Effects generally last several months before gradually fading, though this varies by individual muscle strength, metabolism, and the treated area, so repeat sessions are commonly part of ongoing maintenance.
Can Skin Botox be combined with Face Botox in the same visit?
Combining treatments is something the doctor can evaluate during consultation based on the patient's specific concerns, skin condition, and treatment goals.
Do I need a follow-up appointment after treatment?
Many clinics recommend a follow-up check within a couple of weeks to review results and address any concerns, and this can be discussed directly with the treating doctor during the initial visit.