A comprehensive analysis of various types of hyaluronic acid injections in South Korea: What are the differences between Rejuran, Chanel, and salmon injections?

Every time I open REDnote or Instagram, I see countless promotions for various types of hyaluronic acid injections – “Your skin will glow after the treatment,” “South Korean girls are all getting these injections…” But when you actually decide to give it a try, you find that there are so many different options on the market that it’s hard to decide which one to choose: Rejuran, Chanel injectables, salmon injectables, Juvelook… What exactly are the differences between them? Which one is right for me? In this article, we’ll clarify the most popular types of hyaluronic acid injections in South Korea for everyone.

What exactly is hyaluronic acid injection? Why are all South Korean girls getting it?

Hydro Lifting / Skin Booster is a cosmetic treatment that involves directly injecting nutrients such as Filler, vitamins, and amino acids into the dermis. Unlike the topical skincare products we use daily, which only remain on the epidermis, Hydro Lifting / Skin Booster can penetrate the skin barrier and deliver moisture and nutrients directly to where they are needed.

There are several main reasons why South Korea has become the birthplace and leader in the field of hyaluronic acid injections: First, Dermatology physicians in South Korea have conducted in-depth research on the skin characteristics of Asians; second, South Korean pharmaceutical companies have invested substantial resources in the development of Filler and bioactive ingredients; third, the highly competitive nature of the medical aesthetics market in South Korea has spurred continuous innovation in technology and products.

A comprehensive analysis of the four main types of glow injections in South Korea: The ingredients determine the effectiveness.

Although all the hyaluronic acid injections available on the market are called “hyaluronic acid injections,” their effects and suitable users vary significantly depending on their core ingredients. Here are the four most popular types currently in South Korea:

1. Basic Filler Glow Injection: The top choice for pure hydration

This is the most traditional type of hyaluronic acid injection. Its main component is Filler with a relatively low degree of cross-linking. The mechanism of its action is quite simple: Filler molecules are capable of retaining up to 1,000 times their own weight in water. After injection, they form a “water reservoir” in the dermis, allowing the skin to remain continuously hydrated.

Suitable for: Skin that is simply dry and lacks moisture, has rough texture, or tends to cake makeup. The effect lasts for approximately 1 to 2 months; it is recommended to complete 3 treatments as a course of therapy.

2. PDRN/PN Glow Injection (Rejuran series): Repair and regeneration type

PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) and PN (Polynucleotide) are poly nucleotide compounds extracted from the DNA of salmon reproductive cells. A representative example of such hyaluronic acid injections is South Korea’s renowned Rejuran series.

The core effect of Rejuran does not lie in “hydrating” the skin, but in “repairing” it – it is capable of activating the skin’s natural repair mechanisms and promoting the production of Collagen and elastic fibers. For issues such as enlarged Pores, acne scars, fine lines, and dull skin tone, its effects are more significant than those of pure Filler injections.

The Rejuran series is further divided into the following categories: Black Box (full-face anti-aging repair), White Box (specialized for the eye area), Blue Box (acne scar repair), and Red Box (intensive moisturizing version). In terms of price, the cost of a single treatment in South Korea is approximately ¥250,000 to ¥450,000, which is about 30% to 40% cheaper than in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

3. Composite Nutritional Glow Injection (Chanel Injection/NCTF): An all-round beauty treatment

NCTF from the French brand Filorga (commonly known as “Chanel injections”) is a representative example of this type of glow injection. It contains 53 active ingredients, including Filler, 12 vitamins, 6 minerals, 5 nucleic acids, 23 amino acids, and more – essentially providing the skin with a “nutritious feast”.

This type of hyaluronic acid injection is suitable for those who wish to “comprehensively improve” the quality of their skin – it not only provides hydration but also helps to brighten the complexion, reduce fine lines, and increase elasticity. However, due to its complex composition, people with sensitive skin should undergo tests prior to use.

4. Collagen stimulators (Juvelook/Sculptra): Long-acting anti-aging products

Strictly speaking, these products do not fall within the traditional definition of “hyaluronic acid injections,” but an increasing number of South Korean Dermatology clinics are classifying them as advanced versions of such treatments. The primary function of Juvelook (polylactic acid) and Sculptra (DongAn Center Introduction needle) is to stimulate the production of natural Collagen in the body.

Their effects are not “immediate”; instead, they are gradual. Results begin to be noticeable 2–4 weeks after the injection, and the optimal effect is achieved after 2–3 months. However, these effects can last for 1–2 years. This treatment is suitable for those with mild skin laxity who are looking for long-lasting anti-aging results.

Price comparison of glow injections in South Korea: How much cheaper are they than those in Taiwan and Hong Kong?

Many people who travel to South Korea for cosmetic procedures are most concerned about the cost. Below is a comparison of the prices of hyaluronic acid injections in South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong in 2025 (based on a single treatment for the entire face):

Types of hyaluronic acid injections	South Korea prices	Taiwanese prices	Hong Kong prices
Basic Filler glow treatment	₩100,000 to 200,000	NT$3,000–6,000	HK$1,500 – 3,000
Rejuran PN	₩250,000 to ₩450,000	NT$8,000–15,000	HK$4,000–7,000
Chanel NCTF injections	₩200,000 to ₩350,000	NT$6,000–12,000	HK$3,000–5,500
Juvelook	₩300,000 to ₩500,000	NT$10,000–18,000	HK$5,000–9,000

As can be seen from the table, the price of glow injections in South Korea is generally 20-30% cheaper than in Taiwan and 15-25% cheaper than in Hong Kong. If the costs of airfare and accommodation are taken into account, it is recommended to schedule 2-3 treatments at a time, or to combine them with other treatments such as laser therapy or botulinum toxin injections for better cost-effectiveness.

What happens on the day of the hyaluronic acid injection treatment? Let me tell you based on my own experience.

It’s inevitable to feel nervous when getting glow injections for the first time. Below is my actual experience at a Dermatology clinic in Gangnam, Seoul:

Step 1: Remove makeup and cleanse the skin (10 minutes) – Upon arrival at the clinic, fi
rst remove your makeup and wash your face; the therapist will then assist you with a basic cleansing routine.

Step 2: Apply the anesthetic (for 20–30 minutes). This is the most crucial step in relie
ving pain. If the anesthetic is applied for a sufficient length of time, the discomfort during the injection will be significantly reduced.

Step 3: Consultation with a doctor (5–10 minutes) The doctor will recommend the a
ppropriate type of hyaluronic acid injection and the appropriate depth of injection based on the condition of your skin.

Step 4: Formal injection (15–20 minutes) In South Korea, the current mainstream method is inject
ion using the “hyaluronic acid gun” device, which ensures more even distribution of the substance and faster injection speed compared to manual injection. During the process, you may experience a slight stinging sensation, but it is completely tolerable.

Step 5: Postoperative soothing treatment (10 minutes) After th
e treatment, there will be small needle holes and redness on the face. The nurse will apply a soothing mask and repair cream.

The entire process takes approximately one hour. After the treatment, you can resume your normal activities on the same day, although there may be slight redness and needle marks on your face; it is recommended to wear a mask at this time.

What should be noted during the recovery period after hyaluronic acid injection treatment?

Although hyaluronic acid injections are minimally invasive procedures, proper post-treatment care is still very important. Here are the recommendations given to me by my doctor:

• Do not apply makeup within 24 hours: The puncture sites need time to heal, and makeup may cause infections.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and saunas within 3 days: High temperatures can exacerbate the swelling.
• Strengthen sun protection: After the procedure, the skin is more fragile, and ultraviolet rays can easily cause pigmentation.
• Apply more medical beauty masks: Within 3 days after the procedure, apply 1-2 sterile medical beauty masks daily to aid in recovery.
• Avoid drinking alcohol: Alcohol can affect blood circulation and exacerbate the swelling.

Generally speaking, the puncture wounds will heal within 1 to 2 days, the swelling will subside in 3 to 5 days, and noticeable moisturizing effects will become visible after 1 week.

FAQs about Common Issues Related to Hyaluronic Acid Injection Treatments

Q1: How often is it appropriate to receive hyaluronic acid injections?

A: For basic Filler treatments, it is recommended to apply them every 3–4 weeks, with 3 sessions constituting a complete course of treatment. For restorative products like Rejuran, the same frequency is advised; however, for collagen stimulators such as Juvelook, the interval between applications should be 4–6 weeks, and 2–3 sessions are sufficient to achieve the desired results.

Q2: Is the hyaluronic acid injection very painful?

A: After applying the anesthetic, the pain level is approximately 3-4 out of 10; the main sensations are mild stinging and a feeling of soreness and swelling. If you are particularly afraid of pain, you can choose products that contain anesthetic ingredients or ask the doctor to adjust the depth of the injection.

Q3: Are there any side effects to receiving hyaluronic acid injections?

A: Common side effects include temporary redness, bruising, and the possibility of infection at the injection site (though this is extremely rare). Choosing a reputable medical institution, using genuine injections, and taking proper care after the procedure can significantly reduce these risks.

Q4: Can pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding receive glow injections?

A: It is not recommended. Although there is no clear evidence indicating that hyaluronic acid injections are harmful to the fetus, for safety reasons, doctors generally advise avoiding any non-essential cosmetic treatments during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Tips for those considering getting glow injections in South Korea

After these experiences in South Korea’s medical beauty industry, I have summarized some insights for everyone’s reference:

• Don’t just focus on the price: Extremely cheap packages may contain products of unknown origin, or the treatments may be performed by nurses rather than doctors themselves.
• Verify the authenticity of the product: Reputable clinics will allow you to open the package in front of you; you can also scan the QR code on the packaging to confirm its authenticity.
• Language communication is of great importance: choose a clinic that provides services in Chinese, or use platforms like BeautsGO to make appointments, so that your needs can be clearly expressed during the consultation process.
• Reserve enough time: Do not schedule the glow injection on the day of your return home, in case you experience an allergic reaction or other problems and do not have enough time to deal with them.

If you are still hesitating whether to try glow injections, my advice is to start with basic Filler treatments first. Experience the effects and see how your body reacts before considering more advanced options like Rejuran or Juvelook.

How to make an appointment

If you want to schedule a hyaluronic acid injection treatment at a Dermatology clinic in South Korea, the most convenient way is to use the BeautsGO platform. BeautsGO has partnered with several well-known Dermatology clinics in South Korea and provides services in Traditional Chinese. So, you don’t have to worry about language barriers.

The benefits of booking through BeautsGO include: Chinese-speaking customer service for consultation, transparent treatment prices, strict verification of clinic qualifications, and follow-up services after booking. For those who are visiting South Korea for medical aesthetics treatments for the first time, this is a relatively reliable option.

I hope this article will help everyone better understand the different types of glow injections available in South Korea and how to choose the right one for themselves. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below and start the discussion!