Skin Botox and Lifting Botox: What Is the Difference?
Both are botulinum toxin treatments, but the injection depth and purpose differ. Skin Botox injects small amounts of toxin in a scattered pattern into the shallow dermis to improve the skin's own texture, pores and fine lines. Lifting Botox is injected in a concentrated way into specific muscles such as the masseter, forehead and eye area to relax muscle tension, aiming to change the facial contour or soften expression lines as a result.
In short, skin Botox is about "improving skin texture," while lifting Botox is about "correcting contour and wrinkles by controlling muscles." Many people mix the two up when asking for a consultation, partly because both names include the word "Botox."
Which Skin Concerns Suit Skin Botox?
Skin Botox is chosen when the main concerns are fine lines on the skin surface, enlarged pores or a dull complexion. When botulinum toxin is injected shallowly and spread within the dermis, oil gland activity is suppressed and tension on the skin surface is evened out. As a result, pores look smaller and fine texture looks more refined, an effect that is generally reported.
It is often applied to areas with heavy oil secretion and prominent pores, such as the forehead, nose and cheeks. If the main issue is not lifting or lost volume but the "skin texture itself," skin Botox is the more direct approach.
Which Skin Concerns Suit Lifting Botox?
Lifting Botox aims to correct wrinkles and contour changes caused by muscle action.
Because the key to lifting Botox is "which muscle, and how much," the dose and the placement design directly affect the result.
Can the Two Be Done Together?
Skin Botox and lifting Botox act at different layers, so in some cases they can be done at the same time. However, when botulinum toxin is used in several areas on the same day, the total dose and injection sites need to be designed carefully. Repic Clinic in Gangnam analyzes skin condition as data through Meta View and Mark-Vu diagnosis before treatment, and then the doctor directly designs the treatment plan.
Precautions when both are done together include the following.
- Do not lie down or lie face down for at least 4 hours after treatment (to prevent the injected product from shifting)
- Avoid vigorous exercise, alcohol and saunas on the day of treatment
- Do not rub or massage the injection area with your hands
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a neuromuscular condition, generally tell the clinic beforehand
How Does Botox Differ From Device-Based Lifting?
When you want lifting, device-based lifting is an option in addition to Botox. Ulthera lifting focuses ultrasound energy on the fascia (SMAS) layer to improve sagging of the jawline, cheeks and cheekbone area, and it is performed while checking depth with DeepSee™ real-time imaging. InMode lifting delivers RF energy down to the fascia layer, aiming to reduce fat, stimulate collagen and tighten at the same time, and it is an FDA-cleared device. ONDA lifting uses Coolwave™ microwave technology to minimize damage to the epidermis while targeting the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer together.
Whereas Botox focuses on muscle control, device lifting applies energy to the structural layers of the skin itself to encourage firmness and volume. The two approaches can often be designed to complement each other, and Repic Clinic in Gangnam offers an integrated lifting approach that combines Ulthera, Thermage, thread lifting, EMFACE, lifting filler, Botox and others according to individual diagnostic results.
※ The effects of treatment may vary depending on an individual's skin condition, age and lifestyle. Please confirm the specific suitability and expected results through a consultation with a medical professional.
Official Information
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※ This content is for general information only and does not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before any procedure. Results, downtime and side effects vary from person to person.