Thermage vs. Ultherapy: The Science Behind the Treatment

2021.10.10

Thermage vs. Ultherapy: The Science Behind the Treatment

 

 

Ultherapy and thermage treatment is becoming more and more popular in the cosmetic industry due to their collagen-inducing abilities. Advances in medical technology presented a vast array of choices when it comes to cosmetic treatments, especially in anti-aging and skin rejuvenation. Cosmetic procedures that promote the production of collagen and elastin are probably one of the most favored choices when it comes to seeking different kinds of beauty treatments.     



Collagen Defined 

So what is collagen? And why are there so many different kinds of procedures that claim to boost collagen production? Humans naturally produce collagen and it makes up one-third of the protein in our bodies. In fact, it is the most abundant protein found in our bones, skin, and muscles. The framework that supports the entire foundation of a building or infrastructure can be metaphorically compared to how collagen works in the human body. It binds our bones, skin, and muscles together. 

Like the aforementioned, collagen can be found in our skin. As we age, however, the production of collagen becomes less and less. This is the reason why our bones become weaker as we approach our golden years. Lack of collagen also causes the tissues in our skin to become thinner and weaker which results in the lines that create wrinkles. This is why boosting the production of collagen is necessary to preserve the youthful glow everyone desires. Many companies see this as a marketable opportunity and continuously try to seek better technologies that can truly serve as the fountain of youth through collagen. 
 


Radiofrequency Technology

Before we discuss Thermage treatment, let’s first understand the backbone of this innovation. Thermage operates through radiofrequency technology. The medical use of radiofrequency has been around for over 100 years. Its early days began in the late 1800s when Nikola Tesla theorized that the ability of high radiofrequency currents to generate heat for the human body could indeed be used for medical purposes. 

In the 1900s, experimental methods began to be used to treat various diseases in the field of electrotherapy. At the same time, Jacques Arsene d’Arsonva, a biophysicist, has developed three methods for applying high radio frequency to the human body. At present, various methods are used today to fulfill certain procedural requirements. This technology can even be used to study or detect possible anomalies such as tumors using various machines and even to treat diseases such as cancer.

In the medical field of dermatology, radiofrequency technology is continuously sprouting newer machines and innovations such as Thermage treatment. These procedures can help address many different types of skin conditions and cater to different skin types. Newer types of technologies and their ability to perform advanced, multifaceted functions can fully showcase how much radiofrequency technology has evolved throughout history.
 


Ultrasound Technology

Since we’ve discussed the foundation of Thermage treatment, let’s now look further into the technology behind Ultherapy which is ultrasound. Like radiofrequency, ultrasound has been around for quite some time and has long been relied upon by medical professionals. In 1794, physiologist Lazzaro Spallanzani observed how bats could navigate in total darkness with only the use of soundwaves. This event inspired the idea behind the technology. 

Initially, ultrasound was used in detecting metal irregularities inside transport ships. In the 1950s the medical industry began using ultrasound when Glasgow hospitals utilized the technology to produce rough images. Today, ultrasound is commonly associated with the medical branch of obstetrics and gynecology but the technology has proven to be flexible and versatile in terms of applications.

The versatility of ultrasound has even proven itself in the field of dermatology, in treatments such as Ultherapy. Utilizing soundwaves has proven to be an efficient method when it comes to boosting collagen production. Much like radiofrequency, ultrasound technology has evidently come a long way from where it first made its mark in history. 
 


Thermage Treatment Defined

Thermage is a cosmetics procedure that has been proven safe and effective. Like what’s mentioned above, it utilizes radiofrequency technology to stimulate the collagen production of the skin. The treatment results in an evidently youthful-looking glow and appearance. It naturally tightens and contours the skin around the face without the need to go under the knife. It works for different skin types and can provide results with minimal or no downtime.

Thermage is applicable in most parts of the body however, just like in any cosmetics procedure, most people prefer to get the treatment done on parts of the body where signs of aging initially manifest. Thermage treatment can help treat sagging skin around the chin, jaws, and neck. It could also get rid of lines or wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. 

Additionally, thermage treatment can help eliminate cellulite and skin imperfections. Unlike other skin procedures where a few sessions are needed, thermage can deliver results within one single treatment session. It gradually boosts collagen and skin tightening may happen within 2 to 6 months after treatment. 
 


Ultherapy Defined

Just like thermage treatment, Ultherapy is a non-surgical procedure that is capable of greatly increasing the production of collagen in the skin. Ultherapy uses ultrasound to produce pulsing heat energy to lift and tighten the skin. Most people also opt to get the procedure done in most places where signs of aging first appear such as the face, neck, and chest. It also works wonders around the eyes, specifically the eyebrows where the skin usually begins to sag. 

During treatment, ultrasound energy penetrates through the specific areas intended, and sporadic sensations of heat could be felt. The length of time for each procedure varies depending on the target area and could take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. 

Although redness is common after the treatment, a person who has undergone Ultherapy will not require any downtime and can do activities or socialize right after the procedure. Just like Thermage treatment, results can often be seen depending on how fast your body responds. Some people have been observed to show results within a couple of days and collagen production can continuously improve up to 6 months.

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