Non-invasive “lifting-lasers”’ are currently all the rage in Seoul, Korea, where the vanity of “ageless skin” often takes you to a lunchtime visit with a dermatologist.
I tried the radio-frequency based Thermage FLX in 2018, and the PRP (platelet-rich plasma) Vampire Facial in 2019. So what new sci-fi fantasy name-like treatment did I get myself into in 2020?
LIFTING LASERS: Ulthera, Shurink, Liftera.
Laser resurfacing treatments like Laser Genesis, Fractional C02 Laser, Fraxel, IPL and etc have been a commonplace for Seoulites seeking the smooth “glass-skin” for decades. But for those seeking the infamous Korean v-line/v-shaped jawline, a “lifting-laser” treatment is the current hottest lunchtime procedure of choice.
Whereas resurfacing treatments improve skin tone and texture on a superficial level, “lifting-lasers” are able to go deeper than just the skin’s surface and encourage regeneration of the skin’s collagen from deep within.
Ulthera, Shurink, and Liftera procedures are not technically “lasers.” These are dermatology procedures based on ultrasound technology. They are designed to improve skin tone, texture, and elasticity by lifting and tightening the skin naturally and gradually.
Lifting-Lasers are current hottest lunchtime procedures in Seoul, Korea. PHOTO COURTESY OF ID HOSPITAL
Difference between Ulthera, Shurink, and Liftera
ULTHERA
- The Ulthera procedure, by the brand Ultherapy, is a US FDA-cleared procedure that uses Micro-focused Ultrasound (MFU) energy to lift and tighten the skin.
- It stimulates collagen production by delivering ultrasound energy into the skin’s foundational layer without disturbing the skin’s surface.
- The ultrasound energy bypasses the skin’s layers and triggers a natural response under the skin that produces collagen.
- A treatment for the full face takes 45 minutes to an hour.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MERZ AESTHETICS
SHURINK
- Shurink is a locally developed technology in Korea that uses High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) energy to boost collagen renewal in the skin.
- Similar to Ulthera, Shurink works to remodel collagen to remove facial wrinkles and sagging skin while tightening skin tissues.
- The main difference between Shurink and Ulthera lies in the process. For the Ulthera treatment, ultrasound image processing is done to identify the specific areas to direct the ultrasound energy. With Shurink, cartridges emitting different wavelengths are applied without ultrasound visualization.
- A treatment for the full face takes 15 to 20 minutes, a lot faster than Ulthera since no image processing is done.
LIFTERA
- Identical to Shurink, Liftera is another locally driven ultrasound “lifting-laser” treatment popular in Korea.
- The difference between Liftera and Shurink is the design of the cartridge used during treatment. Liftera uses pen cartridge applicators that are better suited for curved areas such as around the forehead, eyes, and mouth.
- A treatment for the full face takes 5-10 minutes longer than Shurink since the target areas for Liftera shots are smaller per shot.
Final Thoughts on “Lifting-Lasers”
I love them! All three types of “lifting lasers,” Ulthera, Shurink, and Liftera gave similar results. If you expect to end up with dramatically taut skin like you had a face-lift, you WILL be disappointed. But if you are like me, looking to regain some lost elasticity through quick non-invasive treatments, this is for you.
In Korea, these procedures aren’t just for the 30s and up seeking anti-aging/lifting. Many in their 20s are also turning to these “lifting-laser” procedures in hopes of achieving the Korean v-line face/v-shaped jawline. While these may make your skin “lifted” by firming the skin, it’s not going to reshape your jawline.
Have you tried any laser skincare treatments or have one in mind to try? How about at-home alternatives such as LED masks or other beauty tools?
