A journey to Korea is a must for any beauty enthusiast. The idea of packing a suitcase full of K-Beauty treasures not available elsewhere, or securing a rare aesthetic procedure that you can’t find in your own country, often leads to spontaneous airline ticket purchases. Now, there is an exciting new treatment available in the U.S. that offers an advanced K-beauty skin experience just a bit closer to home: Letybo.
Letybo, scientifically known as letibotulinumtoxinA and informally referred to as “K-Tox” in South Korea, is a type A botulinum toxin neuromodulator. It is FDA-approved specifically for addressing glabellar lines (the frown lines between the eyebrows) in the U.S., functioning similarly to other well-known neuromodulators like Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Daxxify to help minimize dynamic wrinkles. However, according to Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at UnionDerm, Letybo distinguishes itself through its gentler, quicker, more affordable, and naturally appearing outcomes. “Its longstanding history in Korea, combined with the reputable manufacturer Hugel Inc., offers it a competitive price point compared to other global brands, making it a sought-after and accessible option,” Dr. Chang explains.
Since launching in the U.S. in March 2025, Letybo has emerged as a formidable rival to Botox in the cosmetic injection marketplace. With more than 31 million treatments worldwide and approval in 65 additional countries, including Canada, Australia, and many European nations, Letybo has solidified K-Beauty’s significant influence in the Western beauty landscape.
“K-beauty, along with its advanced K-Aesthetics, has proven its staying power in the U.S.,” states Ethan Min, CEO of BENEV. This American pharmaceutical company partnered with Hugel Inc. to introduce Letybo domestically. “The innovative mindset, focus on a youthful appearance, skin-centric approach, and dedication to skin quality have resonated profoundly with U.S. consumers, matching the appeal seen in Korea.”
How does Letybo function?
Letybo operates by reducing muscle contractions to help smooth out dynamic wrinkles. It inhibits the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for muscle movement in the face. When a neuromodulator like Letybo prevents acetylcholine release, it softens facial expression lines, including frown lines, forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and bunny lines. Currently, it is only FDA-approved for glabellar lines, but Dr. Chang mentions that it can also be applied off-label in additional facial areas.
Potential Drawbacks
Whether opting for Letybo or Botox, Sonia Badreshia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Elite MD, warns that all botulinum toxins carry similar side effects, including possible bruising, headaches, infrequent hypersensitivity, swelling, or drooping eyelids. She advises that pregnant or nursing individuals should avoid neuromodulator treatments due to limited safety data in such cases. Additionally, Dr. Chang emphasizes that those with active infections, wounds, or rashes at the treatment site should wait until the skin has completely healed before seeking treatment.
