Monopolar RF reaches the dermis without damaging the epidermis. How Thermage FLX works, the face and eye tips, and aftercare.
Written and reviewed by Dr. Lee Yumin, MeSOnBom Clinic
Hello. This is Dr. Lee Yumin of MeSOnBom Clinic.
As the seasons turn and skin firmness begins to decline, a blunter jawline and fine lines in the mirror stand out and can be disheartening.
In practice I often meet people who say, "I'd like a lifting treatment, but I'm afraid to decide in case I lose facial fat and my cheeks hollow."
Thermage FLX is the representative treatment for precisely targeting the dermis, helping it regenerate its own collagen, without that concern about fat reduction.
Today I want to set out precisely how Thermage FLX works and what you may have wondered about it.
Thermage FLX works by delivering monopolar radiofrequency energy deep into the dermis without damaging the epidermis, inducing collagen contraction and new collagen formation through thermal stimulation.
Delivering RF thermal energy: together with a cooling system that protects the epidermis safely, RF thermal energy of 60–70°C penetrates deep into the dermis.
Collagen contraction and tightening: the thermal energy immediately contracts the aged triple-helix collagen structure in the dermis, firming the skin's structure.
Fibroblast activation and remodelling: in the natural healing process of the thermally stimulated tissue, fibroblasts are activated, continuing to synthesise neo-collagen and rebuilding the skin's internal structure at greater density.
Fourth-generation Thermage FLX has a larger tip area than the previous third-generation CPT model, shortening treatment time, and carries AccuREP™ technology, which adjusts energy automatically in real time, increasing both safety and effect.
The dedicated tip used differs with the skin thickness and area of each region.
Because the skin of the face and the skin around the eyes are structurally different, selecting the genuine dedicated tip for the area treated is central to safety and effect.
The purple face tip (Face Tip 4.0) suits:
Clear loss of firmness across the face — cheeks, jawline, nasolabial folds.
Cases needing even, deep energy delivery across the full face, the double chin and the neckline, for which the wider tip area (4.0cm²) is suited.
Those who want general improvement of fine lines across the cheeks and jaw with firm tightening.
The green eye tip (Eye Tip 0.25) suits:
Thin, sensitive eyelid laxity, or fine lines under and around the eyes.
Areas needing safe, precise treatment close to the eye, for which the very small tip area (0.25cm²) and shallower energy penetration are suited.
Those who want a dedicated lifting treatment for the skin around the eyes to recover a naturally defined eye contour without surgery.
Because Thermage delivers strong RF thermal energy, temporary reactions and swelling can occur from immediately after treatment, so thorough aftercare is needed.
Managing swelling and tingling: the response to injected anaesthetic and the thermal stimulation can leave swelling and a tingling sensation in the skin for one to two weeks. If you have an important engagement or a shoot, we recommend treatment at least two to three weeks beforehand.
Preserving the thermal stimulus: avoid washing with cold water or using cold packs and massage for a few days after treatment. Because the thermal stimulus generated within the skin promotes collagen regeneration, washing with lukewarm water is recommended.
Avoiding irritation: for one week after treatment, avoid saunas, steam rooms, excessive exercise, alcohol and anything else that raises heat in the skin.
Moisturising and sun protection: the skin can become dry after treatment, so apply regenerative cream generously and use sunscreen of SPF 50 or above thoroughly.
Q1. Is there an effective way to reduce discomfort during Thermage FLX?
A. Thermage is felt most where sensory nerves pass, particularly along the branches of the trigeminal nerve. Besides anaesthetic cream, dental-style nerve block (local injected anaesthesia) before treatment greatly eases the discomfort of high-energy treatment and allows it to be carried out safely.
Q2. How can I check that a genuine tip is used?
A. Before treatment you should watch the blue authenticity seal on the dedicated Thermage FLX box being opened. Entering the locking key and the authenticity number on top of the box on the official Thermage website confirms the tip's authenticity immediately.
Q3. How long does the effect last, and how often is repeat treatment recommended?
A. Firmness becomes apparent from about one month after treatment, with collagen regeneration at its peak at two to three months. Where the skin is young and firmness is good, once a year; where the skin is thin or ageing has progressed, repeat treatment every six months to a year is recommended.
Thermage is an established lifting treatment that regenerates collagen directly in the dermis, drawing up the skin's own firmness and resilience.
Through a detailed one-to-one plan suited to your skin, I hope you experience for yourself the change to firmer, smoother skin.
Written by Dr. Lee Yumin — MeSOnBom Clinic
Our medical team will advise you based on your skin condition.
