HIFU vs Thermage: Which is the best Anti-Ageing treatment for you?

Looking for ways to fight skin ageing? Here’s a little information to help you look more youthful with the latest technology.

by Liliana Lopez, Biomedical Engineer and Wellness and Clinic Therapist, Body Catalyst South Yarra

 The greatest causes of ageing are genetic, but there are others that can accelerate this process such as moods (sadness, stress, etc.), pollution, smog, poor diet and a lack of basic skin care routines like hydration and sun protection.

 Even when damage is done, there is still a way to age more delicately, with innovative aesthetic procedures including Thermage and HIFU. These avoid surgical intervention, offer natural results, and are effective preventive treatments. So, which one is better for skin tightening?

 There are some significant differences between these two technologies. In order to choose the best option we should learn about the science behind these treatments and consider all the factors.

 Thermage:

Thermage is a nonablative system that uses Radiofrequency energy to heat underlying tissue volumetrically, thus stimulating collagen. The epidermis is protected through a cooling system. Thermage is indicated to reduce superficial skin problems on the face and neck, such as fine early wrinkles, and may help to reduce the signs of early ageing.

The protocol of Thermage treatment requires the use of topical anaesthetic creams administered during multiple passes at low fluence, to avoid burns or fat necrosis, and to reduce pain.

 Thermage obtained FDA approval specifically for the treatment of periorbital wrinkles, whereas HIFU is the only non-surgical treatment that’s been approved by the FDA specifically for skin tightening on the neck and chin and in the brow area. The treatment with Thermage using 600 pulses can take from 45 minutes to an hour, and the treatment can cost anywhere between $2000 and $3000.

 HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)

 HIFU uses a precisely controlled micro-focused ultrasound energy to increase the production of collagen and elastin by rapidly heating up the tissue below the surface. HIFU can target multiple depths (up to 4.5 mm) within the skin, Increasing the temperature up to 60 degrees, HIFU lifts the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) – the layer that surgeons pull back when doing a facelift.

 HIFU stimulates the regeneration of new collagen, tightening and lifting the skin on the neck, under the chin and jawline, the brow and around the eyes. It also treats fine lines and wrinkles, along with wrinkling and sagging on the décolletage and body, with no pain or down time. 

 How long does the treatment take? HIFU is equipped with rapid shot movement, making it highly precise and efficient in its treatment. Treatments to individual areas of the face or body can be delivered in as little as 15 minutes. HIFU treatment starts from $260 to $800 depending upon the number of areas treated.

 Which is best?

 Now that you know the benefits of both Thermage and HIFU, the winner is clear. HIFU offers more accuracy, comfort and is the safer option for those wanting to obtain a natural appearance in less time, and in a more cost-effective way.