If you have started to notice a little less lift along the jawline, some softness under the chin, or skin that looks less firm than it used to, you are not alone. It is one of the most common reasons people come to see us at the Cosmetic Enhancement Center of New England in Portland, Falmouth and Waterville.
The good news is that there are several non-surgical options. The harder part is choosing between them. Here is a guide to three of our most popular skin tightening treatments: Sofwave, Ultherapy and VirtueRF microneedling.
What these treatments have in common
All three treatments use controlled energy to warm the layers beneath the skin surface. That gentle heat is designed to stimulate your body’s natural collagen and elastin production, the proteins that give skin its firmness and elasticity. The collagen and elastic builds over time, rather than working overnight.
Your provider will tell you what to expect, because the right option depends on your skin, your goals and your schedule.
Sofwave
Sofwave uses ultrasound energy delivered to a specific depth in the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin. It is commonly chosen for people who want a lift and smoother texture with little to no downtime. Patients can return to normal activities right away, though some notice mild redness or tenderness for a short time. Results build gradually over the weeks after treatment, and the number of visits depends on your goals.
Ultherapy
Ultherapy also uses ultrasound energy, but it is a micro-focused technology that allows your provider to see the layers they are treating and aim energy at deeper levels of tissue. It is commonly considered for lifting and tightening areas like the brow, jawline, neck and under the chin. Comfort varies from person to person, so ask your provider what to expect and what is available to keep you comfortable. Results develop over a period of months as the collagen builds in the treatment area.
RF microneedling
VirtueRF combines tiny microneedles with radiofrequency energy. The needles create controlled micro-channels in the skin, and the radiofrequency energy heats the tissue beneath. It is often chosen for concerns that go beyond laxity, including skin texture, enlarged pores and some types of scarring, along with overall tightening. Because the needles go through the skin, it is common to have redness, swelling or pinpoint marks for a few days. For best results, our providers may recommend a series of visits to achieve your goals.
Side by side
- Best known for: Sofwave, lift and smoother texture with minimal downtime. Ultherapy, deeper lifting of the brow, jawline and neck. VirtueRF microneedling, texture, pores, scars and firmness.
- Energy used: Sofwave and Ultherapy, ultrasound. VirtueRF microneedling, radiofrequency plus microneedles.
- Typical downtime: Sofwave, little to none. Ultherapy, little to none. VirtueRF microneedling, a few days of redness, swelling, and pinpoint marks are common.
- How results arrive: All three build gradually over weeks to months.
How to choose
A few questions during your complimentary consultation will help narrow it down. What bothers you most: sagging along the jawline, skin texture, scars or overall firmness? How much downtime fits your calendar, especially with the holidays coming? Are you comfortable with a series of visits? Do you want to combine treatments? Our team of experienced providers will create an individualized treatment plan that works with you to achieve your overall goals.
Why fall and winter are a popular time
Skin tightening results build slowly, so starting in the fall gives you time to see progress by the holidays or early in the new year. Cooler weather and less sun also make aftercare easier.
What to do before your consult
Bring photos of what you would like to change, and a list of your current skin care products, medications and past treatments. Wear sunscreen daily. Ask about the number of visits, how long results typically last, and what a maintenance plan would look like.
Ready to find your match?
Book a complimentary consultation with our team and we will walk you through your options. Individual results vary, and the right plan depends on your skin and goals.
