There is something you should know before receiving this treatment. A significant number of exosome products distributed in Korea are registered with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety as “topical cosmetics.” Injecting cosmetics with a needle is a practice that violates current regulations, and there have been cases where doctors who performed such procedures had their licenses suspended.
What’s the Problem?
This does not mean the products are bad; rather, it means there is a discrepancy between “under what classification they were approved” and “how they are being used.” Injecting a substance into the body is the domain of pharmaceuticals, and the validated information for products approved as pharmaceuticals differs from that for products registered as topical cosmetics.
What to Check
During your consultation, ask about both the product name and its approval category (whether it’s a pharmaceutical or a cosmetic). If you don’t receive an answer or are told only that “everyone does it this way,” do not make a decision on the spot.
What About Topical Application?
The method of applying the product topically after creating channels with a laser or microneedles is a different matter. If you first ask specifically what the product is and how it is used, the consultation will become much clearer.
How Much Does It Cost?
Only four hospitals disclosed prices for exosome treatments, ranging from 150,000 to 500,000 won, with a median price of 350,000 won. Since so few hospitals disclosed prices, it’s difficult to determine a market rate.
See also: For procedures where few hospitals disclose prices, it’s safer to confirm the total cost upfront during your consultation. This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a diagnosis. Please consult a specialist or expert before selecting an actual procedure or product.
[Source] Controversy Over the Registration of Exosome Cosmetics and Injection Procedures https://www.medicaltimes.com/Mobile/News/NewsView.html?ID=1164299 · Case of a Doctor’s License Suspension for Injecting Topical Cosmetics https://www.laserpro.or.kr/bbs/board.php?bo_table=new&wr_id=2659&page=13 · Glow Up Price List — Prices from 4 Clinics (as of August 2026)