Thermage is a premier non-invasive skin tightening treatment widely available in Singapore that effectively combats skin laxity, fine lines, and wrinkles without surgery.
Using patented monopolar radiofrequency (RF) technology, Thermage gently heats the deeper, collagen-rich layers of the skin to stimulate natural collagen production, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.
The latest iteration, Thermage FLX, represents the fifth generation of this technology, which has been refined over 20 years in the aesthetic market.
Developed by Solta Medical (USA), Thermage FLX was launched in 2018 and received approval in Singapore around 2019.
What sets this treatment apart is its ability to deliver impressive results in just a single session, with continued improvement for up to six months following treatment and results that can last between one to two years.
How Thermage Works
Thermage uses high-frequency radiofrequency energy at 6.78MHz to gently heat the skin to temperatures between 45-60°C.
To understand how radiofrequency skin tightening works, it’s important to know that this controlled heating process works in two key ways:
- Immediate collagen contraction: The applied heat causes water molecules to separate from fibrous collagen, resulting in immediate contraction and visible skin tightening.
- Long-term collagen production: The thermal energy stimulates fibroblasts to produce new collagen over time, addressing signs of aging such as fine lines, loose skin, laugh lines, droopy eyelids, and under-eye bags.
During treatment, the Thermage handpiece is placed against the skin in targeted areas.
Each pulse delivers customized RF energy that penetrates deeply into the skin’s tissue, followed by a double cryogen cooling effect that protects the surface of the skin and enhances comfort.
The monopolar RF technology allows for deeper penetration compared to bipolar RF devices, reaching the dermal tissue down to the subcutaneous fat layer.
You might be interested: List of Aesthetic Treatments and Costs in Singapore
The Thermage Treatment Process
The Thermage treatment process is straightforward and designed for maximum comfort and efficiency:
Pre-Treatment
- Face cleansing and removal of makeup
- Application of numbing cream (typically for 20-30 minutes)
- Placement of a grid on the treatment area to guide the application of the handpiece
During Treatment
- The Thermage tip is placed against the skin in the target areas
- You’ll feel a brief cooling sensation as the device touches your skin
- This is followed by a deep heating sensation
- Another cooling cycle occurs with gentle vibrations
- The doctor adjusts heat levels throughout the procedure based on your feedback
Treatment Duration
- A full face treatment typically takes around 90 minutes
- Eyelid treatments take approximately 30-45 minutes
- Body treatments vary depending on the area size
Post-Treatment
- No special aftercare is required
- You can return to normal activities immediately
- Makeup application, exercise, and showering can be resumed right away
- Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended
You might like this: Guide to Finding a Good Aesthetic Doctor in Singapore
Benefits of Thermage FLX
Thermage FLX offers numerous advantages that make it a popular choice for non-surgical skin tightening in Singapore:
- Universal applicability: Suitable for all skin types and tones
- Versatile treatment areas: Can treat the entire face (jawline, forehead, chin, nasolabial folds, jowls), neck, eyes, and body areas (stomach, inner thighs)
- Natural-looking results: Provides gradual improvement that continues over time
- Long-lasting effects: Results can last 1 to 2 years
- Single-session efficiency: There is also clinical evidence for Thermage efficacy showing that most patients achieve desired results in just one treatment, unlike other RF devices that may require 5-6 sessions
- Comfort innovations: Fast and comfortable procedure with vibration technology to minimize discomfort
- Non-invasive approach: No surgery, injections, or needles involved
- Minimal recovery time: Little to no downtime after treatment
Related article: Types of Non-Surgical Facelifts in Singapore
Treatment Areas
Thermage FLX effectively treats multiple areas showing signs of aging:
Face
- Forehead lines and wrinkles
- Jowls and sagging cheeks
- Nasolabial folds (laugh lines)
- Loose skin on the face
- Jawline definition
Read more: How to Get Rid of Smile Lines
Eyes
- Upper and lower eyelids
- Crow’s feet
- Under-eye skin laxity
Neck
- Loose neck skin
- Neckline refinement
- “Turkey neck” appearance
Body
- Abdominal skin laxity
- Inner thigh skin
- Arms and hands
- Buttocks
You might be interested: What Treatment is Best for Anti-Aging?
Recommended Shot Counts and Pricing
The effectiveness of Thermage treatment depends on the appropriate number of RF shots delivered to each treatment area. Here’s a guide to typical shot counts:
- Full face: 600-900 shots
- Eyelids: 225-600 shots
- Full face and neck: 900-1200 shots
Pricing for Thermage in Singapore varies by clinic and specific treatment area:
- Full Face (600 shots): SGD $2,500-3,200
- Eyelids (450 shots): SGD $1,788-2,000
- Pricing may vary depending on the clinic and any promotions available
Thermage vs. Alternative Treatments
Thermage FLX vs. Oligio RF
Oligio RF is a newer competitor to Thermage FLX, developed by WonTech (South Korea). Both use similar monopolar RF technology, but there are some key differences:
| Feature | Thermage FLX | Oligio RF |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Monopolar RF (6.78MHz) | Monopolar RF (6.78MHz) |
| Treatment Areas | Face, neck, eyes, body | Face, neck, eyes, body |
| Shot Count | Face: 600 or 900 shots; Eyes: 225 or 450 shots | Face: 600 shots; Eyes: 600 shots |
| Manufacturer | Solta Medical, USA | WonTech, South Korea |
| Time Taken | 45 mins (600 shots) | 30 mins (600 shots) |
| Pain Level (Subjective) | 3-4/10 (with numbing cream) | 1-2/10 (with numbing cream) |
| Results Timeline | Immediate with continued improvement over 1-2 months | Immediate with continued improvement over 1-2 months |
| Cost (SGD) | $2,500-3,200 (600 shots) | $1,800-2,000 (600 shots) |
Patient feedback generally indicates that Oligio RF is considered more comfortable and faster, while Thermage FLX may cause slightly more discomfort and takes longer. However, both show similar effectiveness in results.
Thermage FLX vs. Ultherapy
Ultherapy uses microfocused ultrasound rather than radiofrequency energy:
You might like this: Ultherapy Cost in Singapore: Is It Right For Me?
| Feature | Thermage FLX | Ultherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Monopolar RF | Microfocused Ultrasound |
| Treatment Depth | Surface skin layers (1-2 mm depth) | Deeper layers (1.5-4.5 mm depth) |
| Primary Effect | More skin tightening | More face lifting |
| Treatment Areas | Face, neck, eyes, body | Face, neck |
| Time Taken | 45 mins (600 shots) | 60 mins (600 lines) |
| Results Timeline | Immediate; full in 1-2 months | Similar timeline |
| Cost (SGD) | $1,788-3,200 depending on areas | $1,788-3,200 depending on areas |
Many practitioners recommend combination therapy using both technologies for synergistic results, as they target different skin layers and achieve complementary effects.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Thermage?
Thermage is most suitable for:
- Individuals aged 30-50 with early to moderate signs of aging
- Those with fine lines, wrinkles, and mild to moderate skin laxity
- People seeking non-surgical skin tightening with minimal downtime
- Those looking for natural-looking results
Contraindications include:
- Pregnancy (due to the use of radiofrequency technology)
- Recent anti-wrinkle injections (within 4 weeks)
- Metallic implants in the treatment area
- Active skin infections or conditions
- Certain medical conditions (your doctor will advise)
You might be interested: Best Ultherapy Clinic in Singapore
Results and Maintenance
The results from Thermage treatment develop progressively:
- Some skin tightening and lifting can be observed immediately after treatment
- Progressive improvement continues over the next 3-6 months as new collagen forms
- Full results are typically visible within 2-6 months
- Results can last up to 1-2 years, depending on individual factors and skin condition
For optimal long-term results:
- Patients aged 30-50 typically need one session per year
- Those over 50 may benefit from two sessions for optimal results
- Annual maintenance treatments are recommended to sustain the effects
- Good skincare practices, sun protection, and a healthy lifestyle enhance and prolong result
Comprehensive FAQ Section
How does Thermage compare to surgical facelifts?
Thermage offers a non-surgical alternative to traditional facelifts with no incisions, anesthesia, or recovery time.
While surgical facelifts provide more dramatic results, Thermage delivers natural-looking improvements without the risks and downtime associated with surgery.
It’s ideal for those with mild to moderate skin laxity who aren’t ready for surgical intervention.
Is Thermage painful?
With modern Thermage FLX technology, discomfort has been significantly reduced. Before treatment, a numbing cream is applied for about 30 minutes.
During the procedure, you’ll feel alternating sensations of cooling and heating, with some tingling or mild stinging sensations.
The vibration technology incorporated into newer Thermage devices helps distract from any discomfort. Most patients rate the discomfort as 3-4/10 with proper numbing.
How many sessions of Thermage are required?
Most patients achieve their desired results with just a single session, which is one of Thermage’s main advantages.
The recommended treatment protocol is once a year, beginning when early signs of aging are observed (typically in the mid-30s).
This single session approach contrasts with many other skin tightening treatments that require multiple sessions.
Is Thermage suitable for all skin types and tones?
Yes, unlike some laser treatments, Thermage is safe and effective for all skin types and tones, including dark skin.
The radiofrequency technology targets the deeper layers of the skin regardless of the skin’s surface color, making it universally applicable.
What results can I expect after Thermage treatment?
Some skin tightening and lifting can be observed immediately after treatment. However, the full results develop gradually over 1-2 months as new collagen forms.
You can expect firmer, tighter skin with reduced fine lines and wrinkles, improved skin texture, and more defined facial contours.
Is there any downtime after Thermage?
There is minimal to no downtime with Thermage. Some patients may experience mild swelling or redness immediately after treatment, which typically subsides within 24 hours.
You can return to your normal activities, including applying makeup and exercising, immediately after the procedure.
How long do Thermage results last?
Results from Thermage can last 1-2 years, depending on your natural aging process and skincare habits.
Factors that influence longevity include age, lifestyle, sun exposure, and genetics. Annual maintenance treatments are recommended to sustain optimal results.
Can Thermage be combined with other treatments?
Yes, Thermage works well in combination with other aesthetic treatments.
However, if planning to get injectables like Botox or fillers, Thermage should be scheduled either one month before or one month after the injectable session for optimal results and safety.
Is Thermage safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Thermage is not recommended for pregnant women due to the use of radiofrequency technology.
However, it is considered safe for breastfeeding women as no topical anesthetic enters the bloodstream during treatment.
What areas can Thermage treat effectively?
Thermage can effectively treat signs of aging on the face (including forehead lines, jowls, and loose skin), around the eyes (including upper and lower eyelids), the neck (including loose neck skin), and various body areas (such as the abdomen, arms, and thighs).
How does Thermage compare to other radiofrequency treatments?
Thermage uses monopolar radiofrequency, which penetrates deeper than many other RF devices that use bipolar technology.
This deeper penetration allows Thermage to target the collagen-rich dermal layers more effectively.
Additionally, Thermage typically requires just one session compared to multiple sessions with other RF treatments.
What should I do to prepare for a Thermage treatment?
No special preparation is required for Thermage treatment. However, it’s advisable to avoid excessive sun exposure and certain skin treatments in the weeks before your appointment.
If you’re planning to have injectables, schedule them at least four weeks before or after your Thermage session.
Will I see immediate results from Thermage?
Some patients notice immediate improvements after treatment, such as mild skin tightening and a more refreshed appearance.
However, the most significant results develop gradually over the next 2-6 months as new collagen forms and remodels.
Is Thermage the same as Ultherapy?
No, while both treatments target skin laxity, they use different technologies. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy that primarily targets surface skin layers (1-2mm depth), while Ultherapy uses microfocused ultrasound that reaches deeper layers (1.5-4.5mm depth).
Thermage tends to produce more skin tightening, while Ultherapy provides more lifting effects.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for Thermage?
The best candidates for Thermage are individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity who are not ready for surgery.
A consultation with a qualified aesthetic doctor is essential to determine if Thermage is right for you based on your specific concerns, skin condition, and goals.
Conclusion
Thermage represents one of the most established and effective non-surgical skin tightening solutions available in Singapore.
With its ability to deliver natural-looking results in a single treatment session and minimal downtime, it continues to be a popular choice for those seeking to address the signs of aging without surgery.
While newer competitors like Oligio RF have emerged in the market, Thermage’s two decades of clinical use, extensive safety record, and proven results maintain its position as a gold standard treatment.
For those experiencing early to moderate signs of skin aging, Thermage offers an excellent option to refresh and rejuvenate the appearance with long-lasting effects.
As with any aesthetic treatment, consultation with a qualified medical professional is essential to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific concerns and to develop a personalized treatment plan that will deliver optimal results.