Currently, there is a huge demand for skin tightening procedures on the market, both in industry and beauty clinics, and the two leading approaches are Ultherapy and HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound). Each of these procedures provides skin lifting, wrinkle reduction, and collagen stimulation, however, there are important nuances that need to be addressed by beauty experts when it comes to selecting a treatment.
For the clinics, med spas and dermatologists collaborating with beauty equipment suppliers, it is important to conduct research regarding the treatments’ benefits, differences, and ideal candidates in order to provide great service. This article will analyze Ultherapy vs HIFU, so you can make an informed decision on which technology suits your business objectives.
Clarifying Ultherapy and HIFU Technologies
Description of Ultherapy
Ultherapy is a type of non-invasive ultrasound therapy which performs stimulation of collagen production via focused ultrasound energy directed deep into the skin. It is commonly used for:
- Face and neck lifting
- Contour improvement of eyebrow and eyelid region
- Jawline definition
- Wrinkles and fine lines reduction
Ultherapy is different from other skin tightening techniques because it works with the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) layer, which is the same layer surgical facelifts use.
This is an effective and natural lifting enhancement that can be achieved without surgery.
What is HIFU?
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a form of ultrasound therapy treatment that is used to lift and tighten the skin without invasive surgery. It functions by increasing the temperature of the lower skin layers, helping stimulate collagen and supporting skin elasticity.
Its application extends to:
- Lifting and contouring of the face
- Rejuvenation of the neck and decolletage areas
- Reduction of wrinkles, folds, and fine lines
- Reduction of localized fat such as beneath the jaw
HIFU has become common practice in many beauty clinics and is usually preferred by patients over Ultherapy.
When and how to combine Ultherapy and HIFU
Treatment providers often interchange Ultherapy and HIFU due to their parallel abilities to operate with ultrasound energy and their difference in technology, depth penetration, and user experience.
Technology and Energy Delivery
- Ultherapy has a unique MFU-V (micro-focused ultrasound) technological feature which administers energy to specific depths that range between 1.5mm, 3mm, and 4.5mm to stimulate collagen and elastin to achieve desired results.
- HIFU has a high intensity, focused ultrasound which reduces certain layers of the skin to a specific temperature, which has an uplifting effect. Additionally, HIFU is able to work at various levels between 1.5mm to 16mm, making it suitable for treating both the body and face.
Pain and Discomfort
- Ultherapy deliverance of heat is deeper and in higher intensity which exacerbates pain discomfort, therefore, is usually more difficult to tolerate.
Most clients require numbing cream or some pain relief medication before the treatment.
- HIFU treatments are less painful, as some clients only feel mild discomfort or tingling.
Treatment Time and Sessions
- Ultrasound therapy (Ultherapy) sessions take 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the treatment area. One session can last fully up to two years.
- HIFU sessions typically last between 30-60 minutes, but most clients need the 2-3 treatments for optimal results.
Comparing the Benefits of Ultherapy vs HIFU
1. Effectiveness and Longevity
Ultherapy has noticeable lifting effects after a single session for one and a half to two years, while HIFU provides effective results, but still requires repeat treatments every 6-12 months.
2. Targeted Treatment Areas
Both treatments work well for facial lifting, but HIFU has the added ability to treat larger areas of the body, such as:
- Abdomen
- Thighs
- Upper arms
For businesses that are in partnership with beauty equipment suppliers, having HIFU can broaden the treatments beyond facial rejuvenation.
3. Cost Considerations
Ultherapy treatments tend to be more expensive, often costing two to three times more than HIFU because of its advanced technology and precision.
HIFU is an economical option that provides an effective solution for clients seeking skin tightening procedures.
4. Ideal Candidates
Both procedures prove to be most effective for moderate to advanced skin laxity for clients in their 30’s to 60’s. Nevertheless, clients with advanced sagging might still need surgical treatment to achieve more drastic changes.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Business
When to Choose Ultherapy
- When your clients expect the results to be more accurate and long lasting.
- When your clinic services clients who are high spending and seeking premium services.
- When you are looking for a clinically tested, FDA-approved treatment that has research support.
When to Choose HIFU
- When your business aims to have a variety of inexpensive skin tightening treatments.
- When the desire is to treat both body and face.
- When there is a need for less painful treatments than Ultherapy.
Working with Suppliers of Beauty Equipment
For those wishing to incorporate Ultherapy or HIFU into their business, finding the right beauty equipment suppliers is key. Here is what to consider.
- Certified and verified quality machines – check that the machines have CE, FDA, or ISO approval guarantee their safety and effectiveness.
- Advanced Features – Search for customizable depth features, adjustable treatment heads, and intuitive interface options.
- After Sales Support Select the vendor who can provide on-site instruction, in-person upkeep, and skillset enhancement to secure your business for the years to come.
- Wholesale Pricing and Financing Options
Aesthetic machines are costly, and dealing with a supplier that provides wholesale rates and buying options can ease the financial burden.
Conclusion
When considering Ultherapy vs HIFU, while both techniques are great for tightening the skin without surgery, they are aimed at clients with different expectations and financial capabilities.
- Ultherapy is superior for effective long-term lifting but comes at a very high price.
- HIFU is an economical and convenient treatment with greater range of applications and lesser recovery discomfort.
Working with reputable beauty equipment suppliers makes it easier for professionals in the aesthetic industry to obtain superb quality machines with solid assurance and guidance to deliver the best skin tightening treatments to the patients for their satisfaction and profit.
