Quick answer: Botox (botulinum toxin) relaxes targeted muscles to soften expression lines or slim areas such as the jaw. In Korea, foreigners can be treated at any registered clinic without Korean insurance. Wrinkle results appear in three to seven days, peak at about two weeks and usually last three to four months; jaw slimming lasts longer. Clinics offer both Korean-made and imported toxins.
How botulinum toxin works
Botulinum toxin type A temporarily blocks the signal from a nerve to a muscle. The treated muscle contracts less, so the skin above it creases less, or a bulky muscle such as the masseter gradually shrinks. The effect wears off as the nerve endings recover, which is why treatment needs repeating.
Common treatment areas and typical doses
Doses vary by product, muscle strength and the look you want. Typical starting ranges for Botox-equivalent units are:
- Frown lines (glabella): about 20 units
- Forehead lines: about 6 to 20 units, kept lighter to avoid a heavy brow
- Crow's feet: about 12 to 24 units for both sides
- Jaw (masseter) slimming: about 20 to 50 units per side
- Skin botox (micro-botox): diluted toxin injected superficially for pores, oil and fine lines
- Trapezius ("trap botox"): larger doses to soften the shoulder line
Units are not interchangeable between every brand, so compare like with like when reading prices.
Korean vs imported toxins
Korean clinics stock several Korean-made toxins, such as Botulax and Nabota, as well as imported products such as Botox (Allergan) and Xeomin (Merz). Korean toxins are usually cheaper. Xeomin contains no complexing proteins, which some doctors prefer for patients who have frequent treatments, because it may carry a lower risk of developing resistance. Ask which product will be used and see the vial if you want to.
What happens at the appointment
- A short consultation about the areas and the result you want
- Cleansing, optional numbing cream or ice
- A few quick injections, usually under 15 minutes in total
Many visitors combine Botox with lasers or skin boosters on the same visit.
Aftercare
- Stay upright for about four hours and avoid lying face down
- Do not rub or massage the treated areas that day
- Skip saunas, hot baths, intense exercise and alcohol for 24 hours
- Small bumps settle within an hour; pinpoint bruises are possible
How long does it last?
- Expression lines: three to four months
- Masseter slimming: four to six months, often longer after repeated sessions
- Skin botox: about two to three months
Risks
Side effects are usually mild: bruising, headache or temporary asymmetry. Less commonly, toxin can affect a nearby muscle, causing a heavy brow, drooping eyelid or uneven smile for a few weeks. Choose a clinic where a doctor injects, and avoid treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you have a neuromuscular condition.
Price
Botox in Korea is priced per area or per unit, and Korean toxins are much cheaper than imported ones. Very low "event" prices may use fewer units or more dilution. Ask how many units you will receive. See our
price guide for current ranges, and our
Botox treatment page for more detail.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a prescription or Korean insurance?
No. A doctor at the clinic assesses you on the day. Cosmetic Botox is not covered by insurance, so everyone pays the same self-pay price.
Can I fly after Botox?
Yes, usually the same or next day.
When should I come back for a touch-up?
About two weeks after treatment, once the result has fully settled.
This article is general information and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Last reviewed: October 2026.
