Non-invasive treatments are the new gold standard in the beauty world. Paired with quality skincare products, they help maintain a naturally youthful complexion without needles, pain, or long recovery.
Sofwave and Thermage are among the most popular non-invasive skin tightening treatments. This article dives into the specifics of their unique technologies and procedures, helping you compare them and choose the one that best suits your aesthetic goals.
What Is Sofwave?
Sofwave™ is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that addresses early signs of aging, such as mild to moderate wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity. It uses ultrasound technology to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin (the primary skin-building proteins) in the mid-dermis. Many cosmetic professionals favor Sofwave because of its impressive safety features and subtle, natural-looking results.
What Is Thermage?
Thermage® uses radiofrequency energy to heat deeper dermal layers, triggering collagen production and remodeling the skin. Unlike Sofwave, which targets a precise depth in the mid-dermis, Thermage penetrates broadly into the middle and subcutaneous layers, resulting in more noticeable skin tightening and contouring.
What Is the Difference Between Sofwave and Thermage?
Both treatments tighten and smooth the skin, but they differ in how they work and what effects patients can expect. See the table below for a head-to-head comparison.
| Sofwave | Thermage | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) | Monopolar radiofrequency (RF) |
| Mode of action | Collagen and elastin stimulation in the mid-dermis. | Collagen and elastin stimulation in deeper dermal and fat layers. |
| Skin concern | Fine lines and wrinkles, mild to moderate skin laxity, cellulite, acne scars. | Fine lines and wrinkles, mild to moderate skin laxity, cellulite. |
| Duration of results | Up to one year. | 1 – 2 years. |
| Side effects | Common: Mild redness, swelling, and tenderness. | Common: Mild to moderate pain, redness, swelling. Rare: Bruising, scabbing, scarring, numbness, darkening of treated skin. |
| Cost | $500 - $5,000+ | $1,000 - $5,000+ |
How Do Softwave and Thermage Work?
Sofwave and Thermage use different technologies to increase collagen production and tighten and smooth the skin.
Sofwave
Sofwave uses a handpiece to deliver synchronous ultrasound energy into the mid-dermis at a depth of about 1.5 mm, where collagen and elastin fibers are abundant. The energy is delivered in a focused manner that primarily targets this layer, minimizing the impact on the epidermis and deeper tissues.
The controlled injury from the heat stimulates neocollagenesis (the production of new collagen) and elastin remodeling, improving skin firmness and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Thermage
Thermage uses a handpiece to deliver monopolar radiofrequency energy into the deeper dermal and subcutaneous layers. Though the energy type differs from Sofwave’s, the principle is the same. RF energy delivers controlled heat beneath the skin, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin. Their regeneration improves skin firmness and tightness over time.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Sofwave and Thermage?
Sofwave and Thermage are considered prejuvenation treatments that help maintain collagen levels and delay the onset of visible skin aging signs. Patients are often in their 30s and 40s.
Ideal candidates understand that the effects of the treatments are subtle and not comparable to more invasive treatments like fillers, Botox, or surgical facelifts.
People typically seek Sofwave and Thermage for the following concerns:
- Drooping eyelids
- Mild to moderate skin laxity in the lower face and neck
- Fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck
- Cellulite on the thighs and buttocks
Note: Learn how Softwave for cellulite helps minimize the appearance of “orange-peel” skin.
Do Softwave and Thermage Treatments Require Special Preparation?
Sofwave and Thermage don’t require special preparation. Providers usually advise patients to avoid the sun, tanning beds, and strong skincare ingredients (e.g., retinol and brightening agents) for about one week before the session. Patients should arrive at the med spa with clean skin, without makeup or jewelry.
What to Expect During Sofwave and Thermage Treatments?
The standard protocols for Sofwave and Thermage are described below.
Sofwave
The first step of the Sofwave procedure is cleansing and numbing the skin with a topical anesthetic. While the cream takes effect, the provider marks the treatment area with a temporary marker. Using a handheld applicator, the provider delivers ultrasound pulses to each marked section for 4-5 seconds before moving to the next area until the entire treatment zone is covered.
The session lasts 30-45 minutes per treatment area, discounting the time it takes for the numbing cream to start working.
Patients can resume their normal activities right after the treatment, including working out.
Thermage
The provider cleans the patient’s skin and puts on a topical anesthetic. While the cream takes effect, the provider applies a grid pattern over the treatment area. Finally, they apply a cooling gel to help the device move smoothly and improve the patient’s comfort.
The provider delivers radiofrequency pulses across the treatment area, following the grid pattern to ensure even coverage. The procedure usually takes 30-90 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
Patients can exercise, wear makeup, and resume other regular activities after the treatment.
What Results to Expect After Sofwave and Thermage Treatments?
Sofwave and Thermage noticeably reduce superficial wrinkles, improve texture, and tighten moderately sagging skin caused by collagen decline. Early improvements can be seen when redness and swelling subside, but measurable results occur within three months and improve over time.
There are some differences in the effects of the two treatments. Sofwave is beneficial for superficial and textural concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and overall texture improvement. Thermage is suitable for more noticeable skin sagging in the jowls, cheeks, and neck.
The effects of Sofwave last for up to one year, while Thermage can last longer with consistent skin care. Many patients choose to extend the results with annual maintenance treatments.
Sofwave vs. Thermage Side Effects
Non-invasive cosmetic treatments usually cause mild side effects that resolve within several days. You may experience the following symptoms after Sofwave and Thermage.
Sofwave
Sofwave is among the gentlest cosmetic treatments, often causing no adverse effects. Some patients experience mild to moderate swelling, redness, and tenderness that disappear within a few hours. Bruising is rarely present.
Thermage
Common side effects after Thermage are mild and typically resolve within 24 hours. They include:
- Mild to moderate pain
- Redness
- Swelling
Rarely, Thermage causes these adverse effects:
- Darkening of the treated skin
- Burns
- Blisters
- Scabbing
- Scarring
- Numbness
- Lumps or nodules
Darkening of the treated skin may persist for several months. Contact your provider if you experience more severe side effects after the Thermage treatment.
Who Should Avoid Sofwave and Thermage?
Sofwave and Thermage are indicated for healthy adults. People with certain conditions are not suitable for the treatments. The conditions include:
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Open wounds, lesions, or cystic acne in the treatment area
- Electronic device implants in the treatment area
- Local infections
- Dermal fillers in the treatment area
- Autoimmune diseases
- Bleeding disorders
Taking certain medications, such as oral retinoids or anticoagulants, may require special precautions before Sofwave and Thermage. Disclose your therapy during the initial consultation with your provider, so they can assess potential risks and ensure a safe procedure.
Sofwave vs. Thermage Cost
The cost of Sofwave and Thermage treatments ranges from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on factors including the provider’s expertise and geographic location, the treatment area size, the number of treatment areas, and the expected outcome.
Sofwave
Sofwave costs $500-$1,000 for smaller areas, such as the brows, to over $3,000 for larger areas, such as the full face. At Vibrant Skin Bar, we offer two standard and occasional promotional packages.
Sofwave Face - $3,000
Sofwave Face and Neck - $3,500
Thermage
Thermage costs from $1,000 to over $5,000. Some providers offer package deals, seasonal promotions, or discounts for multiple treatment areas.
Sofwave vs. Thermage FAQ
When choosing between Sofwave and Thermage, patients often ask the questions below.
Which Lasts Longer, Thermage or Sofwave?
Thermage provides more gradual results and can last longer than Sofwave. The manufacturers claim the effects can last up to two years, while Sofwave typically lasts up to one year.
Should You Choose Sofwave or Thermage?
Both treatments are non-invasive and require no downtime, so choosing between Sofwave and Thermage depends primarily on your skin condition and desired goals. If you want to minimize superficial lines and wrinkles and correct textural irregularities, Sofwave may be a better match. Thermage may be more suitable for patients with noticeable skin laxity in the lower face and neck.
Note: Read our articles on Sofwave vs. HIFU and Emface vs. Sofwave to learn how this popular treatment compares to other non-invasive, collagen-stimulating options.
Can You Do Sofwave and Thermage Together?
Many providers combine Sofwave and Thermage to target multiple skin depths and layers and achieve more comprehensive results. Pairing the two treatments provides improved skin lifting, tightening, smoothing, and contouring. They can be performed during the same visit or spaced several weeks apart.
Conclusion
Sofwave and Thermage are among the gentlest and most effective non-invasive skin tightening treatments. They require minimal aftercare and no downtime, which makes them very convenient in today’s fast-paced world.
Find an experienced, reputable provider to create a customized approach to your skin concern and help you reach your beauty goals.
