New and modern skincare trends just like HIFU treatment are starting to gain popularity in the world of beauty and aesthetics. In today’s society, we are becoming more self-aware about the way we look, dress, and take care of our physique. The skin, being the largest organ in the human body, is now considered an extension of our wardrobe. 

Being fashionable needs to go hand and hand with maintaining your skin’s health. This is understandably the reason why both men and women alike are embracing a more open concept when it comes to skincare trends and procedures. At present, skincare does not only involve going to your local dermatologist. It can be a series of home practices that one does religiously to attain better and healthier skin. 

With today’s overwhelming beauty and aesthetics market, combining both clinical and home skincare is still the most preferred choice by many skincare enthusiasts. Many companies within the industry see this as a marketable opportunity which is why new procedures continue to enter the market each year. One of the procedures that have been showing great potential in the beauty and aesthetics industry is HIFU treatment.

What is HIFU Treatment?

HIFU is an acronym for high-intensity focused ultrasound. Unbeknownst to many, before HIFU treatments entered the beauty and aesthetics industry, it was initially utilized to treat tumors, abnormal tissue formations, and cancer cells. Using HIFU treatments in this field of medicine is considered to be one of the safest methods since it’s non-invasive and does not harm any healthy tissues. 

In 2009, the FDA approved the use of HIFU treatment in dermatology which then started its journey as one of the most reliable types of skincare procedures. Since HIFU treatment uses ultrasound technology, it’s better to understand how it works to provide beneficial effects on the skin. 

HIFU operates by harnessing ultrasound energy to target layers of the dermis. Heat is then generated onto the skin to cause cellular damage which helps the body to restructure its regenerative capabilities by producing more collagen. When collagen production is improved, the skin can heal itself more efficiently to replace damaged cells with healthier  ones. HIFU treatment is proven to help address numerous skin conditions which are as follows:
 

• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles. 
  - As people age, we tend to produce less collagen. Since collagen is the main protein that holds our skin and muscles together, fine lines and wrinkles may start to appear after its decline. HIFU treatment effectively stimulates the production of collagen within our skin to reduce or eliminate these typical signs of aging. 
   

• Tightens the skin around the neck and décolletage. 
  - As aforementioned, collagen is what essentially holds our skin and muscles together which is why most people approaching their golden years may notice the sagging of the skin around the neck or décolletage. With HIFU treatment, gradual tightness of the skin around the neck and chest can be achieved.
   

• Lifts the skin around the eyes and cheeks.
  - The eyes and the cheeks are some of the most noticeable parts of the face which is why we must take care of the skin around these areas. HIFU treatment sessions can provide a facelift with minimal to zero downtime. Most patients can simply resume their normal activities after each procedure.
   

• Defines features such as the cheekbones and jawline.
  - Much like what HIFU treatment does for the neck and décolletage, it can also tighten the skin around the cheeks and jawline. This provides better definition and a more pronounced cheekbone and jawline.
   

• Improves the overall quality of the skin.
  - With today’s competitive beauty industry, it’s no surprise that people simply want to have beautiful skin. For others who do not have any skin issues or concerns, undergoing HIFU treatment can provide smoother and even-toned skin. It is a great procedure for simply maintaining and restoring your skin’s health and well-being.
   

The Procedure

Like other forms of skincare treatments done in a medical facility, you must consult a specialist before undergoing the procedure. A typical HIFU treatment session lasts for about 30 to 90 minutes and effects can continue to manifest for as long as about 6 months to a year.  

Before each procedure, the physician must clean the target area and may apply a topical anesthetic. Ultrasound gel is then smeared onto the area so the HIFU device can glide smoothly across the skin during the procedure. 

The device used for HIFU treatment can be adjusted in setting depending on the area that is being addressed. During the procedure, ultrasound energy is emitted in short pulses through different layers of the skin to ensure better collagen production. 

After the treatment, patients may experience a little bit of redness or swelling around the area which usually subsides quickly. Most patients can resume normal daily routines after the procedure which is why most people prefer HIFU treatment over the traditional facelift.

What to Do Post-treatment

Like other medical procedures that people undergo, most experts advise taking precautionary measures after HIFU treatment to ensure its efficacy. These measures must be taken not only to achieve optimal results but also as a way to take care of your skin regularly. 

• Hydrate.
  - Drinking water will always be considered a great habit. Staying hydrated helps our bodies recover as it can aid in maintaining our skin’s elasticity. After HIFU treatment, drinking water assists in the rate of collagen production within your skin. 
   

• Protect yourself from prolonged sun exposure.
  - After the procedure, the skin can be more sensitive or vulnerable than usual. This is why you should always keep in mind the safety of your skin when taking part in outdoor excursions. Exposing yourself to the sun’s harmful UV rays for long periods can cause premature aging which is why you should always wear sunscreen. 

• Avoid Scratching. 
  - During the recovery period, the subjected area of the skin might feel itchy or irritated. As aforementioned, the skin is highly sensitive and delicate after the procedure which is why scratching the area might only cause further damage. It is always better to avoid making contact or touching your face after HIFU treatment for faster recovery.