Skin aging begins in your 20s and accelerates with each passing year. When faced with skin losing elasticity, wrinkles, and enlarged pores, you naturally start looking for solutions. Among these options, ultrasound procedures that can be performed simply without skin incisions are particularly eye-catching. Ulthera and Thermage are prime examples. However, have you heard the news that a new procedure is gaining attention these days that addresses the shortcomings of these two treatments?
It is none other than Softwave. While it shares the same goal of improving wrinkles and elasticity by inducing collagen regeneration, it is said to demonstrate exceptional effectiveness in removing fine lines as well as safety—to the point where it is referred to as a side-effect-free procedure. Let’s learn more about Softwave, which is causing a paradigm shift in the field of ultrasound procedures.
Softwave principle
The skin is composed of the epidermis, dermis, fat layer, muscle layer, and others. Softwave targets a depth of 1.5mm within the dermis. This 1.5mm depth is the point where wrinkles originate! Grooves form as the collagen and elastic fibers composing the dermis are lost. Through SUPERB technology, 12MHz ultrasonic energy is delivered to this exact location using seven transducers.
Temperatures of approximately 60 to 70 degrees are delivered in the form of cylindrical heat columns—that is, linear shapes. Because of this columnar form, it allows for more dense and concentrated treatment on the upper layer of the dermis. This is why immediate and natural tightening effects occur. Since the results are felt quickly in the early stages, satisfaction with the procedure is bound to be high. Softwave strengthens the structures that make up the dermis and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin.
Softwave Benefits and Effects
As mentioned earlier, Softwave extracts only the best advantages of ultrasound procedures. The biggest advantage of Softwave is that you can be free from concerns about side effects such as cheek hollowing. Because it targets shallow layers, even people with little facial fat can receive the treatment without worrying about side effects. It is the perfect choice for those who were hesitant about ultrasound procedures due to a lack of facial fat. Safety is naturally guaranteed as it targets an area where nerves, muscles, and fat do not exist.
Another feature unique to Softwave that Ulthera and Thermage lack is its cooling system. It monitors skin temperature in real-time to protect the epidermis and concentrate the effects on the middle dermis. This sets it apart from the two procedures, which often cause intense heat.
Another key point is the wide range of treatable areas. It allows for treatment even in areas that are difficult to cover with Ulthera or Thermage. It is excellent for treating narrow areas such as the corners of the mouth, neck wrinkles, double chin, and eye area. Furthermore, it can be applied to the entire body, including elbows, knees, and collarbones.
The effects last for approximately six months. The results gradually appear after one month and reach their peak in the third month. Ideally, treatments should be performed once every six months, but due to minimal skin damage, it is safe to proceed with treatments every three to four months.
The difference between Softwave, Ulthera, and Thermage
Softwave vs. Ulthera
Both Softwave and Ulthera are procedures that use ultrasound. However, they differ in the type of energy and the location of application. Softwave uses SUPERB technology at a depth of 1.5mm in the middle of the dermis.
Ulthera uses High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) to apply thermal energy to the fascia layer, located between the fat and muscle layers. It is situated at a depth of 4.5mm from the epidermis. While Ulthera delivers energy in the form of dots, Softwave is characterized by seven parallel columns of heat, eliminating gaps between dots and ensuring uniform energy delivery to the skin.
Since the target areas differ—the dermis and the fascia—the expected effects naturally differ as well. Ulthera is an excellent procedure for refining facial lines. It neatly tightens sagging facial contours. Softwave, on the other hand, excels at removing fine lines and tightening the skin on the surface. Ulthera tends to be slightly more painful. Softwave, however, features a built-in cooling system that reduces not only pain but also heat sensation.
Softwave vs. Thermage
Thermage uses monopolar RF instead of ultrasound. Both Thermage and Softwave target the dermis layer, where collagen and elastin are located. For this reason, the expected effects are similar. Rather than lifting, the focus is on thickening and tightening the skin.
However, because Softwave applies energy to a shallower depth than Thermage, its dermal regeneration effect is superior! It is more specialized for fine lines. If you felt something was lacking after a Thermage treatment, you will experience more immediate satisfaction with Softwave. The pain level is similar.
Softwave vs. Ulthera vs. Thermage Price Comparison
What are the prices for these three ultrasound procedures? Generally, for the entire face, Ulthera and Thermage deliver 600 shots, while Softwave delivers 200 pulses. Based on this, prices are typically set in the order of Ulthera > Thermage > Softwave. This highlights the advantage of Softwave as a procedure with price competitiveness.
Considerations for Softwave Treatment
Check out treatments that are good to receive together
A single procedure cannot solve all skin concerns. The ideal approach to skin treatment involves appropriately combining various procedures to address specific needs. The same applies to Softwave, which is packed with advantages. You can experience its effects even more maximized by combining it with other treatments. The results are particularly amplified when paired with Ulthera Prime.
By using Ulthera Prime to refine facial contours and tighten sagging lines, and Softwave to boost elasticity, you can care for both the deep layers and the outer layers of the skin. Skin boosters like Juvelook also boast excellent compatibility, as they play a role in improving overall skin condition, including texture, tone, and hydration.
Setting the appropriate number of pulses for the individual
Thorough consultation before the procedure is essential, as everyone’s skin condition is different. Facial area, wrinkles, elasticity, and even lifestyle habits can all affect the treatment. This is why it is crucial to check your skin condition and adjust the pulse count according to your desired outcome!
If you wish to treat only a small area, we start with 50 pulses, progressing to 200 pulses for the entire face, and go up to 300 pulses if you want to cover your face and neck as well. Experience a safe and highly satisfying treatment through an in-depth 1:1 consultation with a board-certified dermatologist.
The doctor’s skill level
Softwave requires treatment with the optimal energy intensity tailored to the patient’s skin condition. It is a delicate ultrasound procedure where results can vary depending on the doctor’s expertise, even when using the same machine. Furthermore, when combined with other treatments, sound judgment is required to avoid excessive irritation to the skin.
Choosing the right hospital and doctor is paramount to clearly defining the direction of treatment and achieving highly satisfactory results. Experience the trustworthy touch of Dr. Hong-seok Kim at VOS Dermatology, a clinic staffed by board-certified dermatologists who make up only the top 2% of the nation.