Sofwave vs. Morpheus8 (RF Microneedling)

Sofwave and Morpheus8 are both non-surgical, minimally invasive aesthetic treatments that help boost collagen and elastin to firm, tighten, and lift our skin. However, they do so in different ways with different benefits, downtime, and safety profiles. Not sure which treatment is right for you? Schedule a consultation with our experts at U Med Spa in Plano & Frisco today.

How it works

Morpheus8 is a Radio Frequency Microneedling (“RF Microneedling”) treatment that uses microscopic needles to deliver focused radio frequency energy to the deeper layers of our skin. The micro-injuries from the needles and the heat trigger a healing process that creates more collagen and elastin. Sofwave instead uses multiple simultaneous parallel beams to deliver ultrasound energy to the mid-dermis without puncturing our skin. Sofwave’s SUPERB technology (stands for “Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beams”) ensures that the energy covers more than 40%+ of our dermis with a single treatment for maximum results. These ultrasound beams stimulate collagen, elastin, and Hyaluronic Acid regeneration without the micro-injuries associated with microneedling.

Results

RF Microneedling treatments such as Morpheus8 are multitasking treatments that provide both texture improvements and skin tightening benefits because they combine microneedling with radio frequency energy. Most patients notice reductions in fine lines, acne scars, and pigmentation along with skin tightening. Sofwave on the other hand focuses on tightening and lifting the skin vs. improving skin texture. Sofwave is FDA cleared to:

• Tighten and lift the eyebrows, neck, and jawline
• Improve mild skin laxity in the upper arms
• Reduce the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles
• Improve the appearance of cellulite
• Treat acne scars

Ideal Candidate

Results for skin tightening devices are generally a lot more subtle compared to facelifts which surgically lifts our skin. Surgical facelifts provide more dramatic results in just one procedure, but come with much longer recovery periods with an average cost ranging from $20k to $50k. Surgical facelifts also primarily help with sagginess by lifting the skin, but do not improve skin tone, texture, or elasticity the way non-surgical collagen-stimulating treatments can.

RF Microneedling and Sofwave treatments work by stimulating and creating new collagen and elastin which improve the overall quality of our skin. They are ideal for those in their 30s to 50s with mild to moderate laxity who are looking for powerful skin rejuvenation with little to no downtime. With consistent treatments, they help delay the skin’s aging process over time and reduce the need for a surgical procedure. Older patients may also choose these treatments to postpone the facelifts or combine them with facelifts to enhance the results.

Downtime

Because RF Microneedling treatments cause micro-injuries on the surface of your skin, your skin will be red, sensitive, and swollen for 3-5 days depending on the area(s) treated and your skin’s natural healing response. Sofwave does not cause any injuries on the surface of the skin, so it does not have any downtime. You may experience mild swelling which should subside within a day or two. You will be able to return to your regular daily activities immediately after Sofwave.

Treatment Sessions

For mild to moderate skin laxity, RF Microneedling treatments typically require up to three sessions while Sofwave only requires one session. For severe laxity, acne scarring, and cellulite reduction, RF Microneedling may require 3-6 treatments while Sofwave requires up to 3 sessions. Maintenance treatments may be recommended once or twice a year for both treatments, depending on your skin goals and the treatment plan discussed during your consultation.

Safety

Both treatments are FDA cleared and considered generally safe for skin tightening and rejuvenation. However, because RF Microneedling creates micro-injuries on the surface of our skin, it can cause hyperpigmentation or minor scarring. In some very rare cases where the treatment depth and temperature are not controlled properly, it can also result in fat loss or melting of facial fillers. These side effects can be greatly mitigated with experienced practitioners who understand the treatment settings.

Sofwave uses ultrasound waves to stimulate our dermis without puncturing the surface of our skin. It also integrates a cooling technology to cool the surface of our skin while heating the dermis to stimulate collagen and elastin. This cooling technology not only enhances patient comfort during the treatment but also helps protects the skin from risks like burns or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Sofwave’s treatment depth and temperature settings are also pre-set to be precisely at 1.5mm deep and 60 – 70 degrees Celsius. This depth is more superficial than RF Microneedling which significantly reduces the chance of the heat reaching the fat layers to cause any fat loss.

Patient Comfort

While RF Microneedling tends to be more uncomfortable due to the use of needles and heat, topical numbing is typically used to make it tolerable. Sofwave is generally more comfortable and often doesn’t require numbing, especially when used with cooling aids like the Zimmer device. Patients typically describe the sensation as warm zaps. At U Med Spa, we provide complimentary Pro-nox (laughing gas) and Zimmer for Sofwave treatments.

Final Note

Results from any laser or energy-based treatment depend on how your body responds to controlled injury. These treatments trigger your skin’s natural healing process by creating thermal or mechanical stimulation, stimulating the natural regeneration of collagen and elastin. Your immune health, age, and baseline skin condition can affect results. A healthy lifestyle and proper skin care—both before and after treatment—can significantly enhance your results.

Not sure if you are a candidate for Sofwave? Schedule a laser & energy treatment consultation at U Med Spa in Plano & Frisco to learn more!