If you want to get hyaluronic acid injections but see ads everywhere claiming “10,000 Hong Kong dollars to ensure your skin gets enough glow”, would you believe them? To be honest, when I first went to Seoul for such treatments, I also fell into a trap – I spent a lot of money, but after just a five-minute consultation, I was immediately taken into the injection room. The nurse was even busier than the doctor, and my face became red and swollen for three days afterwards. As for the results… they were just average. Only later did I realize that there are so many pitfalls in the hyaluronic acid injection industry; just choosing the right type of injectable can lead to problems.
I wrote this article by combining my own experience with interviews conducted with several sisters who have been getting injections at clinics in Gangnam for a long time. I tried to be as straightforward as possible, avoiding unnecessary details, and covered everything from the types of injectables to their price ranges, as well as how to choose a clinic.
What exactly is injected during hyaluronic acid injections?
“The so-called ‘hyaluronic acid glow injection’ is not actually a specific product, but rather a method of injection: active ingredients are directly injected into the dermis using microneedle devices (or by manual injection), bypassing the stratum corneum and allowing the skin to directly absorb these nutrients.”
The main components of injectables can be categorized into several major groups:
| Types of injections | Core ingredients | Main benefits | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filler glow treatment | Hyaluronic acid (HA) | Instantly hydrates the skin, fills in fine lines, and brightens the complexion | Dryness, dullness, and the first appearance of fine lines |
| PDRN Hydrating Treatment | Polydeoxyribonucleotides (fish DNA fragments) | Repairs damaged skin, promotes collagen regeneration, and has a soothing effect. | Sensitive skin, postoperative recovery, improvement of acne scars |
| Collagen glow therapy | Small molecule Collagen | Improve sagging and enhance elasticity | Slight sagging in individuals over 25 years of age |
| PRX-T33 | TCA + H₂O₂ + Kojic acid | Skin rejuvenation without the need for a recovery period | Seeking rapid brightening effects is not suitable for pregnant women. |
| Asce+ Exosomes glow therapy | Mesenchymal Asce+ Exosomes | High-concentration formula for repair, anti-inflammation, and promotion of skin regeneration | Postoperative restoration and anti-aging treatments |
To put it simply, if you want “soft, supple skin with a glow”, choosing Filler for hydration is sufficient; if your skin is prone to sensitivity, or if you have acne scars, PDRN is the better option; if you notice your skin starting to loose, adding Collagen will help; and if you want instantly softer and brighter skin, simply opt for PRX-T33.
Prices of glow injection treatments in Gangnam, Seoul, in 2026
Just state the price directly. The figures are based on my recent consultations at several clinics in Gangnam (the exchange rate is calculated using the recent rate of Korean won to RMB and is for reference only):
| Types of injections | Average price in Gangnam, Seoul (in Korean won) | Agreed on the amount in RMB | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Filler Glow Treatment (1 centum core) | 150,000–250,000 | ¥800–¥1,350 | The most common option offers a lower price during promotional periods. |
| Restylane Hydrating Injection (2 centum cores) | 280,000 – 400,000 | ¥1,500–¥2,200 | Imported brands offer more long-lasting results. |
| PDRN Hydrating Therapy (PN) | 200,000 – 350,000 | ¥1,080–¥1,900 | Repair is the preferred option. |
| Asce+ Exosomes glow therapy | 400,000 – 800,000 | ¥2,160 – ¥4,300 | High-end restoration; excellent results after the procedure |
| PRX-T33 skin replacement therapy | 200,000 – 350,000 | ¥1,080–¥1,900 | No needle injection, quick recovery |
| Collagen glow therapy | 300,000–500,000 | ¥1,620 – ¥2,700 | Anti-aging and firming effects |
Price information: The above amounts refer to a one-time fee. For multiple treatments, package discounts are usually available (a 3-treatment package is typically offered at a discount of 25% to 30%). During promotional periods (such as the clinic’s anniversary or when App coupons are in use), the price can sometimes drop as low as 40% of the official rate. It is recommended to check BeautsGO in advance for the latest promotions.
What are the differences in the experience of hyaluronic acid injections at different clinics?
To be honest, there is indeed a difference between the “machine-assisted” and “manual” methods of using glow injections in South Korea.
Machine-based glow treatments (such as Vital Injector): These methods are fast, deliver even distribution of the treatment substance, and allow for precise control over the depth of needle insertion. They are ideal for those who value efficiency – the entire procedure can usually be completed in about 15–20 minutes. However, some models use thicker needles, which may cause noticeable redness after the procedure, requiring 1–2 days to recover.
Doctors performing glow injections manually: The injection sites can be more precisely targeted, allowing for enhanced treatment of specific areas such as the Nasolabial Fold Correction or the lower eyelids. The cost is usually 20–30% higher. This service is only offered by senior practitioners at high-end clinics and requires prior reservation.
Furthermore, the quality of skin cleansing and the anesthetic cream used before the procedure has a significant impact on the outcome. At legitimate clinics, you will be waited for 30–40 minutes to ensure that the anesthetic takes full effect; however, in places that are eager to complete procedures quickly, the anesthetic may be applied just 10 minutes before the treatment begins – you know what I mean.
How long does the effect of hyaluronic acid injections last?
This is the question that is asked most frequently. The direct answer is as follows: The effects of a single Filler treatment last for 1 to 3 months, while the improvements brought about by collagen/PDRN treatments last for 3 to 6 months. The skin repair effects promoted by Asce+ Exosomes treatments are, in theory, long-lasting.
But to be honest, the duration of the effects is influenced by many factors: an individual’s metabolic rate, post-injection care, the environment (dryness/pollution), sun protection habits, and so on. The most reliable way is to undergo maintenance treatments every 2–3 months, treating it as part of a regular skin care routine rather than a one-time solution.
Several key criteria for selecting a clinic
Not every establishment labeled as “Dermatology” is reliable; the following criteria can be used as a basis for selection:
- Whether you hold a license as a Dermatology specialist: In South Korea, dermatologists must complete four years of specialized training before they can practice. This requirement differs from that for general practitioners.
- Consultation time: At regular clinics, doctors spend no less than 10 minutes conducting a consultation. During this time, they will ask about any history of allergies and the current condition of the skin before determining a treatment plan.
- Whether the procedure is performed personally: In some clinics, the “physicians” only conduct consultations, while the actual injections are carried out by nurses. This is also considered illegal in South Korea, so it is important to be aware of this.
- Whether the injection is to be used immediately after opening: It should be used as soon as the bottle is opened. Some cost-saving clinics may divide a single bottle so that it can be used by multiple people, which poses a risk of infection.
- Post-operative care package: Reputable clinics will provide medical masks and restorative products. After the treatment, you will be advised to apply cold compresses and rest, rather than being rushed out immediately.
How can I calculate the cost effectively for getting glow treatments in Seoul?
If you are traveling and taking the opportunity to get glow treatments, the cost-effectiveness of a single treatment is actually average at best. It is better to plan 2–3 treatment sessions in advance and opt for a package deal, as this can save you 15–25% on the total cost. Moreover, the improvement achieved after 3 treatments in a row is significantly more noticeable than after just one treatment every six months.
Some clinics offer “free initial consultation,” allowing you to undergo skin tests and consultations first. If you’re not satisfied, you don’t have to proceed with the treatment. Make sure to take advantage of this. On the BeautsGO platform, some clinics provide exclusive discount coupons. You can book your appointment and secure the discounted price in China, and then just go to Seoul to receive the treatment – this saves you the embarrassment of haggling on-site.
Frequently Asked Questions – Quick Answers
Q: What is the difference between hyaluronic acid glow injections and Filler injections? A: Hyaluro
nic acid glow injections are administered in the superficial dermis in small amounts, primarily for hydrating the skin; whereas Filler injections are delivered at a deeper layer in larger doses, mainly to restore contours that have become sunken, such as the Tear trough correction and Nasolabial Fold Correction areas. These are two completely different procedures – the former carries virtually no risks, while the latter requires greater caution.
Q: Can pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding receive glow treatments? A:
Most brands do not recommend the use of standard Filler for glow treatments during pregnancy. Although some studies have indicated that PDRN-based products may be relatively safe, there is a lack of large-scale clinical data to support this. As a precaution, it is advised to wait until after breastfeeding is over before undergoing such treatments.
Q: Can I take a flight on the same day after the treatmen
t? A: Yes, but it is not recommended. The dry environment in the airplane is not good for skin that has just undergone hyaluronic acid injections. It is suggested to wait at least one day after the treatment before flying.
Q: Are there any recommended ways to make appointments when going to South
Korea?
A: You can directly make appointments through the BeautsGO platform. All the clinics listed on the platform have passed qualification inspections, and they also offer Chinese-language consultation services to help avoid potential problems due to language barriers. 👇
✔ Onlin
e access to discount coupons
✔ Chinese-speaking
consultations; you can receive treatment on the same day of your arrival in Korea
The content of this article is based on actual medical experiences in South Korea and publicly available information. The prices of injections may vary depending on the clinic and promotional activities, and are provided for reference only. For specific treatment plans, it is recommended to consult with the physicians at the clinic on-site.