Visible signs of aging are a natural and inevitable part of growing older. As time goes by, we may notice that our skin starts to become laxer and that wrinkles and fine lines start to appear. This can be more noticeable in some skin areas than in others and may make you feel self-conscious. Thermage treatments produce a natural, restorative effect on deep tissue collagen layers, helping to reduce and minimize wrinkles and to tighten skin.
Radio-frequency treatments are quick and non-invasive: a great option if you want a fast solution for loose skin that involves minimal recovery time. The treatment involves using state-of-the-art radio-frequency technology to tighten targeted areas of skin.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Thermage?
Given its non-invasive nature and relatively short recovery time, Thermage is safe for the majority of people. However, some people will reap more benefits than others, depending on the results they wish to achieve. For instance, people looking to reduce mild to moderate wrinkles or small skin bulges can usually expect significant results. These results may vary more, however, for candidates who want to treat very severe wrinkles or large areas of loose skin.
What Is Radio-Frequency Skin Tightening?
Thermage is a specific type of radio-frequency skin tightening treatment. Radio-frequency skin tightening works by gently heating the deep tissue skin layers and stimulating collagen strands within these regions. The heating process separates water particles from the underlying collagen fibers, which causes the skin surface area to tighten and contract. This immediately creates the impression of tighter, younger-looking skin.
During the treatment, a cooling tip is also applied to the outer layer of skin, protecting it from heat damage and minimizing discomfort. This process also promotes natural collagen regrowth as your skin heals, giving skin a firmer and more youthful appearance in the months after your treatment.
What Can Radio-Frequency Skin Tightening Be Used For?
Radio-frequency skin tightening can be used to treat a range of skin areas and cosmetic concerns. As we age, our bodies stop naturally producing collagen, which is responsible for keeping skin layers firm and mobile. This reduction in elasticity and flexibility leads to changes in the skin texture, such as sagging or loosening. Collagen reduction also causes wrinkles to develop as our skin no longer bounces easily back into shape.
- Improve skin definition
- Tighten loose skin
- Smooth skin bulges
- Decrease appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Provide facial contouring
- Create smoother, healthier-looking skin
Who Should Consider Skin Tightening Treatments?
Skin tightening treatments are ideal for candidates who want to target stubborn areas of loose skin or visible signs of aging. For instance, radio-frequency skin treatments can be particularly effective at targeting the lower abdominal area or loose skin on the inner thighs or upper arms. These are areas that typically do not fully respond to toning exercises and that may require more thorough maintenance, such as skin tightening treatments, to restore shape.
Radio-frequency skin tightening treatments are also highly effective for targeting areas around the face, jawline, and neck. One of the most common causes of early-onset wrinkles is sun damage, which your face and neck are more prone to than other parts of your body. Skin tightening treatments can help reshape loose skin on your face, leading to a more youthful, contoured look. Skin tightening can also target common areas where wrinkles appear, such as around your eyes or mouth.
What To Expect at Your Thermage Appointment?
Before you attend your radio-frequency skin tightening appointment, you will meet with one of our practitioners to assess your skincare goals and discuss targeted areas for treatment. This will help you get a clear understanding of what you can expect from the treatment and the types of results you should see post-treatment. Once you have chosen the area you wish to target, you can go ahead with your treatment.
During the treatment itself, your practitioner will use a radio-frequency application tool, which will be held against your skin. Using state-of-the-art algorithm technology, this tool seamlessly distributes radio-frequency energy throughout your selected area. Meanwhile, the device’s cooling tip helps keep your upper skin surface stable and comfortable. You may feel slight vibrations or a slight sensation of heat against the skin during this process.
How Long Do Radio-Frequency Skin Treatments Take?
Typically, a radio-frequency skin tightening session lasts between 45 and 90 minutes. The duration of the treatment depends somewhat on the results you wish to achieve and the condition of the skin area you wish to treat. The treatment does not require any anesthetic or pain relief so you will not feel drowsy and will be free to drive or return to work after your appointment.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
For most patients, Thermage is a one-off skin treatment and does not require multiple sessions close together. This means you will usually see results after just one appointment and won’t need to return to the clinic for top-ups. However, if you are pleased with the long-term results of your treatment, you can also return for annual or bi-annual appointments, depending on your aesthetic goals.
How Long Do Skin Tightening Treatment Results Last?
One of the most exciting benefits of radio-frequency skin tightening is the fact that your results will gradually improve over time. The heat waves distributed through the skin during your treatment activate natural collagen stores within the deep tissue. As your skin heals post-treatment, the results of this activation become visible and the collagen presence in your skin is renewed.
This collagen stimulation helps give skin a plump, revitalized look that gradually improves in the months following your treatment. Most patients will begin to see increasing results between two to six months after just one treatment. These results can then generally be expected to last for one to two years, depending on how your skin responds to the treatment.
Can I Drive Myself to My Appointment?
Patients can comfortably drive themselves to and from their appointments and do not need to bring a friend or someone to help them afterward. As the treatment is non-invasive and usually involves very mild side effects, most patients can return to their normal daily routine immediately after their appointment. This makes radio-frequency skin tightening an ideal skin treatment for people with a busy schedule who don’t want to miss out on work or social events.
What Side Effects Can I Expect After Radio-Frequency Skin Tightening?
Part of the appeal of radio-frequency skin tightening treatments is the fact that patients report very few side effects from the process. Side effects associated with the treatment are also mild and should resolve within 24 hours. Common side effects reported by patients include slight swelling in the targeted area. Some patients may also experience mild, short-term redness on the surrounding skin.
Does Thermage Require a Post-Treatment Skincare Routine?
Most patients will not need to undergo any special skincare routines or use specific skincare products after their radio-frequency tightening treatment. However, patients should maintain their usual skincare upkeep, including using moisturizers and keeping their skin clean. Your practitioner may also recommend the use of a mild SPF sunscreen or sun protection cream, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Post-treatment skin care routines can be discussed in-depth with our providers who can make appropriate recommendations.
Why Choose Thermage Skin Tightening Treatments?
Radio-frequency skin tightening treatments are ideal for patients who want to treat mild to moderate signs of aging or small areas of loose skin. Patients who opt for this treatment will see results rapidly and can expect results to improve over time for a limited period. Radio-frequency skin tightening does not require regular top-ups so it’s a great option if you want a quick, no-hassle skin rejuvenation.
Get in Touch With Us Today
Another benefit of radio-frequency skin tightening is that the process is so quick and easy. Most patients experience very mild side effects that clear up within 24 hours. State-of-the-art cooling technology also helps protect your skin while the heat treatment is being applied. To find out more about Thermage radio-frequency skin tightening, contact Dr. Michael I Jacobs in New York, NY, for a consultation appointment.