There’s no shortage of cosmetic treatments for skin lifting and tightening. New treatments often offer improved features, allowing patients to achieve significant skin rejuvenation without invasive procedures.
Sofwave and HIFU are popular recent trends in ultrasound skin tightening. This article explores how Sofwave and HIFU differ, which treatment we prefer at Vibrant Skin Bar, and why.
What Is Sofwave?
Sofwave is the latest innovation in ultrasound cosmetics. It uses the Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology (SUPERB) to send ultrasound energy into the mid-dermis, which contains the highest concentration of collagen and elastin. By regenerating these skin-building proteins, the treatment improves skin elasticity, reduces sagging, and minimizes wrinkles.
What Is HIFU?
HIFU uses High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound technology to deliver thermal energy into varying dermal layers to address different skin issues, from superficial wrinkles to deep structural concerns. HIFU reaches the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which connects facial muscles to the skin. SMAS lies beneath the mid-dermis and subcutaneous fat, and acts as the main facial support structure. HIFU stimulates the production of collagen and elastin in SMAS, helping to strengthen, tighten, and lift the skin.
What Are the Differences Between Sofwave and HIFU?
The key difference between Sofwave and HIFU is the depth at which each treatment delivers ultrasound energy into the skin. The following table presents the main differences and similarities.
| Sofwave | HIFU | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology used | Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB). | High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). |
| Targeted skin layer | Mid-dermis. | Mid-dermis. Dermis. SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system). |
| Depth at which energy is delivered | 1,5 mm. | 1,5 mm - 4,5 mm. |
| Skin-enhancing mechanism | Collagen and elastin regeneration. | Collagen and elastin regeneration. |
| Treated skin concerns | Skin laxity and wrinkles. | Skin laxity and wrinkles. |
| Required sessions (typically) | 1 | 2-3 |
| The result’s duration | 12 – 18 months. | 12 – 18 months. |
| Side effects | Common: Mild redness, swelling, and tenderness. Rare: Bruising. | Common: Mild, redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain. Rare: Bruising. |
| Price | $500 - $4,500 | $1,000 - $4,000 |
How Do Sofwave and HIFU Work?
Both treatments use ultrasound technology, but the processes differ.
Sofwave
Sofwave’s SUPERB technology uses high-frequency ultrasound energy, which is delivered in pulses to the mid-dermis at a depth of 1,5 mm. This precise delivery ensures controlled injury to collagen and elastin fibers at the locations where they are most abundant. The treatment stimulates the body’s repair processes and increases the production of collagen and elastin.
HIFU
HIFU delivers thermal energy into the deep dermal layers at varying depths (1,5 mm to 4,5 mm), where significant amounts of collagen and elastin are produced. It reaches SMAS, the same layer that is tightened during a surgical facelift. Like Sofwave, HIFU causes microscopic damage to skin cells, initiating a healing response and increased collagen and elastin production.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Sofwave and HIFU?
Ideal candidates for both treatments are healthy adults with mild to moderate skin laxity caused by aging-related collagen loss. They are usually in their late 30s and older. Younger individuals also schedule the treatment as a preventative measure, delaying the appearance of aging signs.
Ideal candidates have realistic expectations and understand that the results of minimally invasive treatments are not as dramatic as those of a surgical facelift.
Typical skin issues that Sofwave and HIFU can correct include:
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Sagging skin along the jawline, cheeks, and under the chin
- Hooded eyelids
- Fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck
- The appearance of cellulite on the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen
Note: Learn how Sofwave for cellulite works and how effective it is for “dimpled skin”.
Do Sofwave and HIFU Require Special Preparation?
Sofwave and HIFU don’t require special preparation. During the initial consultation, the providers typically recommend discontinuing the use of harsh skincare ingredients, such as retinol and vitamin C. They also advise patients to avoid tanning and injectable treatments like Botox and fillers for two weeks.
Patients should arrive at the session wearing no jewelry or makeup.
What to Expect During Sofwave and HIFU Treatments?
Sofwave and HIFU are quick, no-downtime treatments. Patients often schedule them between errands or during a lunch break.
Sofwave
The provider cleans the patient’s skin and applies a numbing cream. When the cream takes effect, they glide a handheld device over the patient’s skin, sending ultrasound pulses to the skin.
Patients usually feel a hot, tingling sensation for a few seconds, which recurs in cycles as the device moves from one area to the next. With the numbing cream and the device’s built-in cooling mechanism, Sofcool, most patients find the treatment tolerable.
Sofwave sessions usually last 30 – 45 minutes per treatment area. One session is often enough to achieve the desired results.
HIFU
HIFU providers also disinfect the patient’s skin first, apply a topical anesthetic, and proceed with the treatment. Using a handheld device, they deliver short bursts of high-intensity heat to the deep dermal layers. Because of the deep penetration of ultrasound energy, HIFU patients often experience discomfort and more pain than during a Sofwave session. Pain can also persist after the treatment.
The sessions take 30 – 90 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area. Patients usually need two or three treatments spaced 1-3 months apart.
What Are the Results of Sofwave and HIFU?
Sofwave and HIFU are collagen-inducing treatments. It takes time to remodel collagen, so the results appear gradually. Patients usually notice their skin is refreshed and firmer within several days, but full results take up to three months.
Both treatments leave the skin lifted, tighter, smoother, and visibly rejuvenated. The effects last 12 – 18 months, depending on the patient’s skincare and lifestyle habits.
Are There Any Side Effects of Sofwave and HIFU?
Sofwave and HIFU use FDA-cleared devices and are considered safe, but side effects are possible.
Sofwave
Common side effects include mild swelling, redness, and tenderness. They usually resolve within a few hours. Sofwave patients rarely experience bruising.
HIFU
Potential side effects of a HIFU treatment include swelling, redness, numbness, and bruising. Pain and discomfort are a more common reaction to HIFU than to Sofwave.
Should Anyone Avoid Sofwave or HIFU?
Sofwave and HIFU are safe for most healthy adults. However, medical professionals don’t recommend the treatments to the following groups:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Patients with active skin infections, acne, and open wounds.
- Patients with bleeding disorders.
- People with metal implants.
Sofwave vs. HIFU Price
The total cost of a Sofwave or HIFU treatment depends on the patient’s skin concern, the size of the treatment area, and the provider’s geographic location and expertise.
Sofwave
Vibrant Skin Bar offers two Sofwave packages: Sofwave Full Face at $3,000 and Sofwave Face and Neck at $3,500. Promotional packages are also available, allowing patients to choose three treatment areas at a discounted price of $3,250.
HIFU
HIFU prices range from $1,000 for smaller areas to $4,000 for the face and neck. The total cost depends on the number of required sessions.
Sofwave vs. HIFU FAQ
These frequently asked questions from patients provide more information about Sofwave and HIFU and can help you choose the treatment for your specific cosmetic goals.
Can Sofwave and HIFU Replace a Facelift?
As non-surgical, minimally invasive treatments, Sofwave and HIFU cannot replace a facelift. Though HIFU targets the same skin layer as a surgical facelift, the surgery involves physical removal of excess skin, providing more dramatic lifting and tightening. The results of Sofwave and HIFU are more subtle and natural-looking. They can, however, be extended with regular annual sessions.
Are Sofwave and HIFU Safe?
Sofwave and HIFU devices are FDA-cleared, and the treatments are generally considered safe. When a qualified and experienced medical professional performs the treatment, the side effects are minimal and recovery is quick.
How to Choose Between Sofwave and HIFU?
Sofwave and HIFU are similar in many ways, including the procedure and results.
One of the main distinctions for patients is the level of pain during the session. Sofwave is a more advanced treatment with an integrated cooling mechanism that helps protect the skin’s surface and improves patient comfort.
Another feature that makes Sofwave our favorite is its focus on safety. By targeting solely the mid-dermis at a precise depth of 1,5 mm, the treatment reduces the risk of damage to fat tissue.
The advantage of HIFU is that it targets multiple skin layers, including deeper structural layers, providing more extensive tightening and lifting in some patients.
The best choice depends on the patient’s degree of skin laxity, treatment goals, and tolerance to pain. A qualified medical provider can recommend the most appropriate option based on an individual assessment.
Conclusion
Sofwave and HIFU are advanced cosmetic treatments for skin laxity and wrinkles. They tighten and smooth the skin, contributing to a youthful, radiant look with minimal risk and downtime.
Contact our skin experts at Vibrant Skin Bar for a careful skin evaluation and the best treatment plan for your aesthetic goals.
