HIFU vs Anti Wrinkle – What’s the difference?

If you are looking for non-surgical cosmetic treatment to enjoy the benefits of a Facelift, then it’s important to know what is available to you.  Which form of treatment will be best suited to you as an individual? Let’s explore them both so that you can make an informed decision.

Of course, each treatment has their own unique pros and cons, though both are incredibly popular forms of anti-aging treatments. Let’s kick this off with HIFU.

High-frequency focused ultrasound

HIFU is a non-invasive and needle-free anti-aging treatment that uses ultrasound technology to focus on the skin’s foundational layer. This is to bolster collagen growth (an essential protein for healthy skin), giving you a full appearance with great elasticity and a youthful glow.

HIFU effects last for up to a year and sometimes even longer, with relatively fast acting results. Whilst a number of sessions are required and 2-4 weeks is allowed for noticeable results, the non-invasive and affordable nature of HIFU make this option very attractive to patients.

Anti Wrinkle

Our anti wrinkle treatments has long been considered the ‘gold standard’ of anti-aging, as it has been around for some time and has been a highly effective form of aesthetic enhancement. The treatment fluid is injected under the skin and into the underlying muscles (typically in the face and neck). The name ‘toxin’ can be deceiving as the substance is safe to inject. However, the way that it works is different to HIFU, in that it is designed to inhibit muscle movement, whilst offering a smoother appearance of the skin. This inhibited movement can at time result in stiffness of the face with less natural movement, however the aesthetic effects are brilliant.

The anti wrinkle treatment helps to relax the muscles and ultimately slows the aging process down. This treatment is typically very fast moving, though only lasts for several months requiring regular injections.

HIFU vs Anti Wrinkle: which is best?

Ultimately, it does come down to personal preference. For the sake of painting a clear picture, we will list a few factors and the corresponding information for both so that you can decide which is more suitable for you.

Invasiveness / pain / side effects

HIFU: HIFU is a non-invasive treatment that uses no needles or incisions of any kind. The ultrasound treatment generates heat in the foundational layers of the skin, promoting collagen growth. This is a painless procedure; however, it can be quite irritable for some people as the heat generation gives the sensation of itchiness or mild discomfort. Potential side effects are redness of the skin (which is common for 30-minutes to an hour after treatment), and temporary numbness or bruising.

Anti Wrinkle treatment is somewhat non-invasive compared to facial surgery, however there are injections involved which can be painful. In most cases you will be able to have anesthetic in order to numb the target area prior to having your injections, however there can be some discomfort afterwards.

There are a number of side effects which you should be aware of beforehand, including bruising, bleeding, pain, redness, swelling, muscle stiffness, dizziness, dry mouth & eyes, increased sensitivity to lights, sweating, eyelid swelling or bruising, flu-like symptoms (including drowsiness), runny nose and a sore throat.

How long does it last/how soon can I expect results?

HIFU: HIFU effects can last from 6 months to a year and in some cases even longer, with visible results occurring in approximately 2-4 weeks.

Anti Wrinkle works a little faster in terms of results, typically taking place in approx. 3-5 days. However, Anti wrinkle doesn’t last for very long when compared with HIFU, typically fading after 3 to 6 months.

So, whilst HIFU can take a little longer to produce visible results, they will last for two or three times longer. If it is tighter skin with a lift that you’re after, HIFU is generally better. Whereas, if it is wrinkles and lines on your forehead for example, then anti wrinkle tends to be more effective.

How much does it cost?

HIFU: The average cost for HIFU treatment is approximately $1700 dollars (depending on where you get the treatment).

Anti wrinkle can cost anywhere between $600 and $1200 (depending on how many treatments you need and which clinic you go to).

In terms of value for money, we would say that HIFU wins, given how long-lasting and effective the results are. However, for anti wrinkle, you can get it cheaper if you have less ‘units’ in the injection—though considering the results, HIFU still wins out value-wise.

Can I get both treatments?

You can indeed seek out both HIFU and anti wrinkle and use them together as past of your anti-aging plan. It is perfectly safe to do so and can often produce more comprehensive results when used together.

Conclusion

So, which is best? Again, it can be difficult to say as it really depends on your budget, your pain threshold, and what sort of results that you’re looking to achieve. We would argue that on the whole, HIFU is the best out of the two, however that is not to say that anti wrinkle treatment is not worthwhile.

There are more potential side effects that come with anti wrinkle treatments, though it is convenient being able to see such fast-acting results, even if they don’t last for particularly very long. This could make Botox the more attractive alternative treatment for those who have a particular event coming up and would like to look and feel better within themselves. Whereas if immediacy is not an issue and you’re more concerned the long-term effects, then HIFU almost certainly wins out.

If you’d like more information regarding HIFU and anti wrinkle treatment, please do not hesitate to contact us today. We will gladly answer any questions that you might have and offer as much information as possible so that you can decide as to which is best for you.