Beauty for All
Walks of Life

Understanding the Basics of HIFU and RF

How HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) Works and Its Effects

HIFU delivers focused energy deep into the skin, generating heat at specific depths of 4.5mm, 3mm, 2mm, or 1.5mm. This controlled heating process causes micro-coagulation, triggering the skin’s natural healing response. As a result, collagen production increases, and the tissues contract slightly, leading to skin tightening and lifting effects depending on the treated layer.

How RF (Radio Frequency) Works and Its Effects

RF delivers heat from the skin’s surface, penetrating from the epidermis to the subcutaneous tissue. This heating process causes controlled tissue damage, stimulating collagen production and tissue contraction as the skin repairs itself. This mechanism effectively tightens the skin.

Differences Between HIFU and RF

While both treatments use heat, the way heat is delivered and the targeted layers differ:

HIFU precisely targets deep layers, including the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer, providing a lifting effect. However, its ability to tighten surface tissues is relatively weak.
RF delivers broad heating from the outside, effectively tightening the skin and reducing volume in fat layers.

Enhancing the Lift-Up Effect with HIFU × RF

The Role of HIFU in Lift-Up

HIFU’s ability to heat the SMAS layer makes it ideal for lifting. The SMAS layer supports facial structures, and by contracting it with heat, the face appears lifted.

The Lift-Up Effect of RF

RF heats the skin from the outside in, effectively reducing fat volume and tightening the skin’s surface. It can be used on various body areas to sculpt and refine contours.

Achieving Beautiful Skin Through Synergy

HIFU is particularly effective along the jawline, as muscle positioning influences its effect.
RF allows more flexible targeting, making it useful for refining areas such as marionette lines and nasolabial folds by tightening small pockets of fat.

HIFU and RF Treatment Methods & Clinics

About the Volnewma Device

Volnewma is an RF machine developed by Infics in South Korea. It features a mantis-like design, with dual handpieces of various sizes:

Small handpieces for delicate areas like the eyes and mouth
Medium-sized handpieces for the face
Large handpieces for the body
A grounding pad is placed on the back, allowing RF energy to flow between the handpiece and the pad, heating tissues to the desired depth.

Types of RF Devices and Treatments

The original RF device was Thermage. After its patent expired, devices like Volnewma, Oligio, and Density were developed. These newer devices are designed to reduce risks while making treatments more affordable.

How to Choose a Clinic

Check the types of devices available and the number of shots per session.
Many clinics have nurses perform the procedure rather than doctors.

Treatment Intervals and Long-Term Maintenance

How Often Should You Get HIFU?

Since HIFU applies heat in a dot pattern rather than continuously, shorter intervals are possible. However, a 3 to 6-month interval is ideal for balancing results and recovery.

Recommended Interval for RF Treatments

RF should be done every six months. Since collagen production continues over time, allow at least two months between treatments.
For those who want more frequent sessions, consider alternating with other treatments like hyaluronic acid injections, Rejuran, or IPL therapy.

Suggested Treatment Schedule

HIFU every three months
RF every other session (i.e., every six months)

Potential Drawbacks of RF and Precautions

Aesthetic Downsides of RF

RF effectively tightens the skin but can worsen hollow areas, making sunken regions appear more pronounced.

Precautions When Undergoing RF

If you have metal implants in your body, RF may cause burns in those areas.
Consult your doctor and check the material of any implants beforehand.

Possible Side Effects and Countermeasures

If too much volume loss occurs, it can be corrected with hyaluronic acid fillers, fat grafting, or regenerative medicine treatments.

Post-Treatment Care

Expect mild swelling and redness after the procedure.
Maintain hydration and UV protection to support healing.

Maximizing the Effects of HIFU × RF

Key Points for Achieving Optimal Results

Higher output settings enhance effectiveness, although they may cause mild discomfort.
A slight burning sensation is normal—try to tolerate it for better results.

Preparation and Precautions Before Treatment

Hydration and UV protection are essential.
Higher output levels yield better results, so aim for the maximum tolerable setting.

Post-Treatment Recommendations

Relax and take it easy to allow your skin to recover.

Yoshiko Kuno