HIFU vs Botox

We compare the differences between HIFU vs Botox, to help you decide which treatment is right for you before you make a decision whether you go with HIFU or Botox, Non-invasive or injectables?

How does HIFU work?

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (short for HIFU) is a revolutionary skin tightening and lifting technology that is non-surgical and non-invasive. HIFU works to not only stimulate the natural regenerative process of the skin but unlike any other technology, lifts the deep muscle layer beneath it (SMAS – superficial muscular aponeurotic system) – the layer that surgeons pull back when doing a facelift. Body Catalyst clinics use Ulfit HIFU technology which combines radio frequency and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) waves that penetrate the SMAS layer without breaking the skin’s surface.

Micro-focused high-energy ultrasound applied to the treatment site generates thermal energy between 60-70 degrees which stimulates the skin’s natural regenerative process. By stimulating and regenerating the collagen in the skin, clients can expect to “iron out” fine lines and wrinkles, while lifting and tightening from the cheeks and under the chin to define the jawline. Clients walk out of the clinic immediately looking 10 years younger!

As HIFU stimulates the skin’s natural regenerative process, treatment results will continue to improve as collagen production increases over 6-12 weeks. Many clients only require 2 – 3 treatments, spaced 3 months apart.

As this treatment is non-surgical and non-invasive, there is no downtime, it’s not known as the lunchtime facelift for nothing!

Some common side effects of HIFU may be redness of the skin, and a slight sensitivity (which commonly lasts 30 minutes to an hour after treatment), and temporary numbness or bruising on the treated area. Application of recovery cream can alleviate any immediate discomfort.

Expected HIFU Results

Up to 25% of visible results immediately after treatment

Results continue to improve over 12 weeks.

Results last up to 12 months

What is Botox?

Botulinum toxin (commonly known as botox) is an injectable wrinkle muscle relaxer, used on the forehead and crow’s feet to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It is injected into particular muscles, and works by paralysing and blocking nerve pathways to prevent muscle activation and contraction.

Typically, results take 14 days to fully show and treatment results last 3 to 6 months (depending on individual hormones and metabolism). As the muscle action slowly returns, the lines begin to reappear and need to be treated again.

Expected Botox Results

More than one treatment may be required for optimal results

Results last 3 to 6 months (Depending on hormones and metabolism)

Final results 14 days after treatment

Botox is very different to HIFU; botox “freezes” facial muscles to keep you from contracting them in ways that deepen lines and wrinkles, whereas HIFU stimulates the reproduction of collagen and elastin fibres to lift, contour and tighten the skin and is an intensive anti-aging treatment.

When it comes to deciding between HIFU or botox, they are very different procedures and render different outcomes. To help decide consult your local skincare experts at Body Catalyst. If you would like to know more about our HIFU treatments or have any questions you can call us on: 1800 THESHIFT or send an enquiry.