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Smaller Pores in Seoul: Refine Pores With a Phased Plan
Quick answer
Smaller-looking pores come from reducing oil, clearing congestion and firming the skin around each pore so it looks tighter. Pores cannot be removed, but their appearance can be refined with skin Botox, RF microneedling such as Potenza, pore tightening treatment and the right home routine. At The Heal in Jamsil, Seoul, a dermatologist plans these in phases. Results vary. Send a close-up on KakaoTalk for a suggested plan.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa , board-certified dermatologist · Updated October 2026
Best options
Skin Botox + RF
Sessions
3–4 over 3 months
Downtime
None to 3 days
Timeline
1–3 months
Why pores look large
Pores are the openings of hair follicles and oil glands, and everyone has them. They look larger when:
- Oil production is high , stretching the pore opening
- Pores are clogged with oil and dead skin, appearing as dark dots
- Skin loses firmness with age, so pores sag and look elongated
- Acne or scarring has damaged the surrounding tissue
Pore size is partly genetic, so the realistic goal is refinement, not elimination. The doctor first identifies whether your pores are mainly oil-driven, congestion-driven or laxity-driven, because each needs a different approach. Read enlarged pores for details on causes.
Your plan in three phases
- Phase 1 – Reduce oil (week 0): skin Botox , very superficial injections that can temporarily reduce oil and refine the look of pores.
- Phase 2 – Remodel (weeks 2–12): Potenza or Secret RF microneedling delivers heat around the pores to stimulate collagen, typically in a series of sessions.
- Phase 3 – Maintain clarity: our pore tightening treatment and periodic clearing care keep pores unclogged.
If laxity is the main issue, collagen-stimulating lifting may be added. The doctor chooses based on your pore type rather than using every option available.
Combinations for best results
Combining treatments that work on oil and structure gives a more noticeable improvement than either alone. A common approach pairs skin Botox for shine with an RF microneedling series for texture. When pores sit alongside shallow acne scars, the RF series can address both; see our smooth skin texture goal.
People with very oily skin may also benefit from medical skincare such as retinoids. If you have active acne, it is treated first, because inflamed skin responds less predictably to microneedling. Our oily skin page covers this in more depth.
Maintenance and home care
Refined pores need ongoing care to stay that way:
- Cleanse twice daily with a gentle gel or low-foam cleanser
- Use salicylic acid or a retinoid a few times a week to keep pores clear
- Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen
- Avoid squeezing blackheads, which can stretch pores
Skin Botox effects usually last a few months, while collagen remodeling from RF builds over several weeks and lasts longer. Many people repeat one RF session a year and skin Botox periodically. Results vary between individuals.
Seasonal changes, such as humid Seoul summers, may also increase oil and visible pores.
Pore treatments and travel
Skin Botox has almost no downtime: small bumps settle within hours, so you can go out the same day. RF microneedling causes redness and slight swelling for one to three days, and tiny marks may be visible briefly, so book it early in your trip. Avoid saunas, heavy makeup and intense sun for a few days after RF. Microneedling is postponed if you have active infection, are pregnant or have recently used oral isotretinoin. When you are ready, get a pore-refining plan built around your trip.
Our team replies in English with a suggested schedule.
The Heal approach
We match the treatment to why your pores look large, whether oil, congestion or laxity, so you get visible refinement without unnecessary downtime.
Expert review
Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa
Medical Director · Board-certified dermatologist · Seoul National University College of Medicine
Written for international patients and reviewed for medical accuracy. Individual results vary; your plan is decided in person after a skin assessment. Our review policy
Visit us
The Heal Dermatology Clinic Jamsil
4F, 329 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Korea
5 min walk from Jamsil Station (Line 8), Exit 9
Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00
Tue–Thu 10:00–19:30
Sat 09:30–16:00 · Sun & holidays closed
International patients
Visiting Seoul? Get your plan before you fly.
English consultations with a board-certified dermatologist, 5 minutes from Jamsil Station. Treatments are scheduled around your downtime and flights. International patient guide
1
Message us
Concerns, optional photos and travel dates via form or KakaoTalk.
2
Get your plan
Suggested treatments and timing around your flights.
3
Consult & treat
In-person assessment with Dr. Yang in English, then treatment.
Frequently asked
Smaller Pores: your questions answered
Can pores be permanently shrunk?
Pores cannot be removed, and their size is partly genetic. Treatments can make them look noticeably smaller and tighter, and good maintenance helps keep that improvement, but some upkeep is usually needed.
How long does skin Botox for pores last?
Effects typically last around three to four months. Many people repeat it a few times a year, especially in hot, humid seasons when oil production increases. Results vary between individuals.
Does RF microneedling hurt?
Numbing cream is applied beforehand, so most people feel warmth and light pressure. The skin may feel tender and look red for a day or two afterward. Comfort is checked throughout.
Can I do pore treatments if I have acne?
Active acne is usually treated first, because inflamed skin heals less predictably. Some RF devices also help acne, so the doctor will decide the safest order based on how active your breakouts are and your skin type.
Keep exploring
Related treatments & guides
English consultations in Jamsil, Seoul
Refine your pores for smoother, clearer skin
Send your photos and travel dates. We reply with a personalised plan before you fly.