Technological advancements for skin tightening have made it possible for a more natural alternative to surgical facelifts. Two of the most standout treatments at the forefront of skin tightening are XERF and Ultherapy Prime®. While both treatments aim to lift and tighten the skin, they utilize different technologies to achieve the desired results.
XERF
How it works
XERF uses dual-frequency radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat tissue at both superficial and deep layers. This multi-level approach stimulates collagen production while tightening existing fibers, resulting in smoother and firmer skin over time.
Best for
- Mild to moderate skin laxity
- Early jowling or signs of sagging around jawline, neck or cheeks
- Crepey or thinning skin
- Collagen stimulation and skin firming
- Patients wanting gradual, natural-looking improvement with no downtime
What it feels like
Most patients describe XERF as warm but not painful. Treatments are generally comfortable and require little to no downtime.
Results timeline
- Subtle tightening may be seen right away.
- Collagen continues building over the next 4-12 weeks.
- Typically performed as a series of treatments for optimal results, typically 2–4 sessions per year.
Why patients love XERF
- Comfortable sessions
- Safe for many skin types
- Improves tone, texture, and firmness
- Minimal downtime
- Great for maintenance and prevention
Ultherapy Prime®
How it works
Since the original Ultherapy®, this next-generation device targets the deeper layers of the skin with more efficiency and less pain. Ultherapy Prime® uses micro-focused ultrasound energy to target the deeper structural layers of the skin while bypassing the skin surface. It creates precise thermal points, stimulating collagen production and resulting in a firmer, more youthful appearance.
Best for
- Mild to moderate skin laxity
- Sagging in the lower face, neck, chin, and décollete
- Drooping brows
- Patients looking for a low maintenance, single-session lifting treatment
What it feels like
Ultherapy Prime® is described by patients as brief heat or tingling sensations. Comfort measures, such as numbing cream, can be used prior to treatment.
Results timeline
- Gradual lifting over 2–3 months
- Continued improvement up to 6 months
- Usually 1-2 treatments a year with yearly maintenance.
Why patients love Ultherapy Prime®
- Safe for all skin types
- Deeper tissue targeting
- FDA-cleared for face, brow, neck, décolleté, arms, and abdomen
- Long-lasting collagen stimulation
Which One Is Better?
It really depends on every individual’s skin and goals. Each device is unique and may work better for some patients rather than others.
- Choose XERF if you want:
- Quick results
- Skin tightening and lifting
- Preventative or maintenance treatments
- A more comfortable experience
- Choose Ultherapy Prime® if you want:
- Deeper lifting
- Deep collagen stimulation
- A single-session approach
- Improvement in moderate laxity
HALO BEVERLY HILLS tip: Many patients achieve the best results by combining both, starting with Ultherapy Prime® for foundational lifting, followed by XERF for a touch up in skin quality and ongoing collagen support.