As we age, our skin slowly loses collagen, the protein that keeps it firm. That’s when we start noticing looser skin, a softer jawline, or fine crepey lines.
Radiofrequency (RF) and ultrasound are two non-surgical technologies used for skin tightening. Both use gentle heat to encourage your skin to make new collagen. The main difference is how deep they work and what kind of sagging they address.
Here’s a simple guide to Xerf (RF) and Ultherapy Prime (ultrasound).
How Are RF and Ultrasound Different?
RF warms a wider area of skin, which helps with overall looseness and texture. Ultrasound sends focused heat deeper, to the layer that supports your face, which helps with lifting.
Think of it this way: RF works on the fabric, while ultrasound works on the support underneath it.
What Is Xerf?
Xerf is a radiofrequency treatment. It warms the skin evenly using two different energy levels, so it can work on both the surface and the layers just beneath. A cooling system helps keep the skin comfortable during treatment.
Xerf may help with:
- Loose or crepey skin
- Uneven skin texture
- Mild sagging on the face
- Skin laxity on the body, such as the tummy or arms
What Is Ultherapy Prime?
Ultherapy Prime uses focused ultrasound energy. It reaches deeper than most skin treatments, down to the layer that supports your facial structure.
Your doctor can see the layers beneath your skin on a screen during treatment, which helps guide where the energy is placed. At Healthsprings, Ultherapy Prime works at two depths: the deep support layer (4.5mm) and the deep skin layer (3.0mm).
Ultherapy Prime may help with:
- A heavier or less defined jawline
- Drooping brows
- Loose skin under the chin and on the neck
- Fine lines on the chest
Results build up gradually as new collagen forms. Results are typically at their optimum around six months and can last up to one year. Results vary from person to person.
Xerf vs Ultherapy Prime at a Glance
| Xerf | Ultherapy Prime | |
| Technology | Radiofrequency (RF) | Focused ultrasound |
| How it works | Warms a wider area of skin | Targets precise points deeper down |
| Commonly used for | Tightening and smoothing | Lifting |
| Areas | Face and body | Face, neck and chest |
| Downtime | Usually minimal | Usually minimal |
How XERF and Ultherapy PRIME Work Together
XERF and Ultherapy PRIME work in different ways and can complement each other within a skin-tightening plan.
XERF uses radiofrequency energy to support overall skin firmness and may be considered for loose or crepey skin on the face and body.
Ultherapy PRIME uses focused ultrasound with real-time imaging to treat selected tissue depths, including areas such as the brows, jawline and under the chin.
For patients with concerns at different tissue levels, combining both treatments may provide a more comprehensive approach to firming and lifting. Your doctor will assess the treatment areas and recommend the appropriate timing and sequence.
Not sure which treatment is right for you? Book a consultation with our doctors at Healthsprings Laser & Aesthetic Clinic.