What is Thermage?
Using radiofrequency energy (RF), Thermage works by gently heating the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen remodeling and encourage new collagen production. This non-invasive treatment helps support gradual skin tightening, smoothing, and rejuvenation without surgery or injectables, while maintaining a natural-looking result.
As the collagen continues to rebuild over time, many of our clients notice a firmer, smoother, and more refreshed looking appearance with no downtime.
How Thermage Works
Skin has several layers, including the epidermis (surface layer), dermis (deeper structural layer), and the subcutaneous (fat) layer beneath. As we age, the collagen fibers within these layers gradually weaken, stretch and lose elasticity, causing skin laxity, wrinkles and sagging. At the same time, the body's natural collagen production begins to slow down.
Thermage uses advanced radiofrequency technology to gently heat the deeper layers of the skin while protecting the surface. This controlled heating helps to stimulate existing collagen fibers, causing them to contract and tighten. The treatment also encourages the production of new collagen over time, helping improve skin firmness, smoothness, and overall texture gradually in the months following treatment. Because Thermage works by stimulating the body's natural collagen remodeling process, results continue to improve over time while maintaining a natural-looking appearance.
Treatment Areas
Thermage for the Face
Results may include:
- Smoother, tighter skin with less sagging
- Redefined contours along the jaw line and under the chin
- Softening of wrinkles and fine lines around the mouth, eyes and forehead
- Tightening the sagging skin under the chin
Thermage for the Eyes
Results may include:
- Brighter looking eyes
- Smoother, tighter skin around the eyes
- Reduced under eye sagging
- Softening of wrinkles and fine lines
- Smoother skin on the eyelids
Thermage for the Body
Results may include:
- Flatter, smoother skin on the tummy, legs, knees, buttocks, and arms
- Tightening, firming, and lifting
- Softened wrinkles around the knees
- Reduction of crepey skin
- Smoothed dimples for temporary improvement in the appearance of cellulite
Benefits of Thermage
- Non-surgical treatment
- Little to no downtime
- Gradual looking natural results
- Helps smooth and firm skin
- Can treat all skin types and tones
- Can be done any time of year, do not have to avoid the sun
- Single-treatment approach for many clients
The Thermage Experience
During a Thermage treatment, patients will feel intermittent heat as the radiofrequency energy is delivered into the deeper layers of the skin. Some areas may feel more sensitive than other, and mild discomfort can occur during treatment.
To help maximize comfort, the Thermage tip features a built-in cooling system that continuously cools the surface of the skin before, during, and after each pulse. The handpiece also vibrates during treatment, which has been shown to help reduce discomfort and improve comfort throughout the procedure.
The heat generated during the treatment is an essential part of the process, as it helps stimulate collagen remodeling and encourage new collagen production. People find the treatment tolerable and can return to their normal activities afterwards.
Downtime and Recovery
One of the major benefits of Thermage is that there is little to no downtime following treatment. Most people can return to their regular daily activities immediately after their appointment, with no special recovery period required.
Thermage is a non-invasive treatment that does not damage the surface of the skin, it is a popular option for those looking to improve skin firmness and texture without downtime. Some people may experience mild temporary redness, swelling, or warmth in the treated area following the procedure, but these effects are typically minimal and short-lived.
How Long Results Last
Thermage delivers gradual, natural-looking results as your skin continues to improve over time. While some people notice subtle tightening sooner, full results are typically visible around 6 months following treatment as new collagen develops.
Thermage treatments are known for their long-lasting results, with some people reporting improvements that last 2-3 years. The longevity of your results depends on factors such as your skin condition, lifestyle, and natural aging process. Think of it as turning back the clock - while still allowing your skin to age naturally.
Who is a Good Candidate for Thermage?
A good candidate for Thermage is someone experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity who is looking for natural-looking results without surgery or downtime. Thermage is ideal for those wanting to tighten and smooth the skin while maintaining a refreshed, natural appearance.
It is also a great option for preventative aging treatments, helping to support collagen before more significant sagging develops. People experiencing early signs of aging, skin laxity following pregnancy, or loose skin after weight loss may also benefit from treatment. Thermage can be used on a variety of areas of the face and body to help improve skin firmness, texture and overall appearance.
What To Expect During a Thermage Consultation
Prior to booking a Thermage treatment, we require an in-spa consultation with one of our experienced medical aestheticians. During your consultation, we will perform a thorough assessment of your skin, discuss your treatment concerns and goals, and determine whether Thermage is the right option for you.
Your medical aesthetician will also explain the treatment process, expected results, recommended treatment areas, and what you can realistically expect following treatment. Because every client's skin, concerns, and goals are unique, each Thermage treatment plan is fully customized to help achieve natural-looking, personalized results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Thermage hurt?
Many of our clients find Thermage tolerable. During treatment you will feel heat sensations as the radiofrequency is delivered into the deeper layers of the skin. To improve comfort, the Thermage tip includes a built-in cooling system and vibration technology. Some areas may be more sensitive than others, but most people are able to comfortably complete the treatment.
How many Thermage treatments will I need?
Many clients achieve their desired results with a single Thermage treatment. The treatment stimulates your body's natural collagen production, so improvements continue to develop over the following months. During your consultation, your provider will assess your skin and discuss whether additional treatments may be beneficial for your goals. Due to natural aging processes, skin condition and lifestyle some clients will get maintenance treatments to prolong the results.
Is Thermage Safe?
Thermage has been used worldwide for many years and is a well-established non-invasive skin tightening treatment. The technology is designed to heat the deeper layers of the skin while protecting, the surface, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types and tones. A consultation is required to determine whether Thermage is appropriate for you.
Can Thermage replace a facelift?
Thermage is not a replacement for a surgical facelift. However, it can be an excellent option for people experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity who want to improve firmness and contour without surgery, injections, or downtime. It is often the chosen treatment for those looking for subtle, natural-looking rejuvenation.
Is Thermage Suitable For All Skin Types?
Yes, unlike some laser treatments Thermage can be performed on all skin types and tones. It uses radiofrequency energy rather than targeting pigment, so it can be safely used throughout the year and does not require you to avoid sun exposure before or after treatment.
When Will I See Results From Thermage?
Some people notice subtle changes shortly after treatment, however, the most significant results will develop gradually as new collagen is produced. The improvements typically continue for up to 6 months following treatment. Many people result last for years, depending on their skin condition, lifestyle and natural aging process.
What Areas Can Be Treated With Thermage?
Thermage can be used on the face, eyes, neck, and various areas of the body. The common treatment areas include the jawline, under the chin, around the eyes, abdomen, arms, thighs, knees, buttocks. During your consultation, we can determine which areas may benefit most from treatment.