As skin ages, it gradually loses collagen and can begin to soften along the cheeks, jawline and neck. XERF is a non-invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to firm and support the skin from within, with little to no downtime.
At a glance:
XERF is a non-surgical skin-tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to warm the deeper layers of the skin and stimulate collagen. It uses dual-frequency monopolar RF (6.78 MHz and 2 MHz), which lets it deliver energy at more than one depth, reaching the shallow, middle and deeper layers of the skin, while helping to protect the surface.
This warmth prompts the skin’s natural repair response, encouraging the cells that make collagen to produce new collagen and elastin. Over a series of weeks, this can help the skin feel firmer and look more lifted.
XERF is developed by Cynosure Lutronic.
XERF combines two RF frequencies, 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz, so it can reach different depths in a single session, including the deeper SMAS layer that helps support the structure of the face. This lets it work on both surface firmness and deeper support.
The warmth creates a controlled, mild stimulus in the skin. This encourages the fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen) to:
Some firming may show early on as collagen tightens, while further change tends to build gradually as new collagen matures over the following months. Results differ from person to person.
Different parts of the face call for different levels of treatment. XERF can be set to work at three depths, depending on the area:
Suited to thinner areas such as the forehead, working on the upper layers of the skin to address texture and firmness.
Suited to slightly thicker areas such as the cheeks and neck, reaching into the deeper dermis.
For denser areas such as the lower face and jowls, reaching the deeper support layers for more structural firming.
XERF is built with several features that work together to keep the energy delivery precise and comfortable through the session.
Wave Fit adjusts each RF pulse using real-time feedback from your skin, with the aim of keeping each pulse comfortable while reaching a suitable temperature for collagen stimulation. The system monitors the skin’s surface temperature and eases off automatically if it gets too warm.
XERF releases cooling during treatment to help keep the skin surface comfortable, protect the outer skin, and support delivery of the RF energy to the deeper layers.
XERF reads the skin in real time and offers a range of depth and intensity settings, so the treatment can be adjusted to each person and each area, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
XERF comes with four applicator sizes for areas of different shapes, allowing careful treatment of finer areas such as under the eyes and around the mouth, as well as larger zones such as the cheeks, jawline and neck.
XERF offers a range of non-surgical firming benefits:
Results may vary depending on individual skin condition and treatment plan.
XERF may be worth considering if you are noticing:
It is often considered by people who prefer a non-surgical option, who find heat-based treatments uncomfortable, who want minimal downtime, or who want to support their skin as part of a maintenance routine. A consultation with our doctor is the best way to find out whether XERF is suitable for your skin.
Before treatment, our doctor assesses your skin, discusses your concerns and goals, and advises whether XERF is suitable for you.
A numbing cream is applied for around 30 minutes for your comfort, which also allows treatment at appropriate settings.
The session usually takes around 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the areas treated. You may feel a warm sensation as the energy works through the deeper layers of the skin, which is generally well tolerated.
Any mild redness usually settles on its own. There is typically little to no downtime, and our doctor will share aftercare advice with you.
In some cases, yes. XERF can be considered alongside other treatments that address different signs of ageing. Our doctor will assess your needs and recommend a plan that suits you.
XERF can be considered alongside ultrasound-based lifting such as Ultherapy Prime, Ultraformer MPT or HIFU, and with other RF treatments at our clinic such as Thermage and Venus Legacy. Ultrasound treatments reach deeper, focused planes, while RF works across multiple layers.
Collagen biostimulators and Profhilo bio-remodelling support the skin in building collagen gradually from within. Alongside XERF, which stimulates collagen through warmth, the two approaches can complement each other.
Skin boosters deliver hydrating ingredients into the skin to support skin quality, moisture and texture, while XERF works deeper to firm and support the underlying structure.
Is XERF comfortable?
Most people find it comfortable. You may feel a warm sensation as the energy works through the skin, and the built-in cooling is there to keep the surface comfortable. We also apply a numbing cream beforehand. Comfort can vary from person to person, and our doctor will talk you through what to expect.
When will I see results?
Collagen renewal is a gradual process, so any changes tend to build over a period of weeks to months rather than straight away. How much you see, and how quickly, varies between individuals depending on your skin, age, lifestyle and sun exposure. Our doctor can give you a realistic picture at your consultation.
How long do the results last?
This varies from person to person and depends on factors such as your skincare, sun protection and the natural ageing of your skin. Our doctor will discuss maintenance with you.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on your skin and the degree of laxity. Our doctor will recommend a suitable plan during your consultation.
Is there any downtime?
There is typically little to no downtime. Any mild redness usually settles on its own. Our doctor will provide aftercare guidance, including anything to avoid in the period after treatment.
If you would like to find out whether XERF skin tightening is suitable for you, contact us at +65 6815 9922 or WhatsApp/SMS us at +65 8866 9922 and book an appointment. You can also reach us by email at consult@luxaestheticclinic.com, and learn more about our other treatments such as Thermage, HIFU and skin boosters.
Important Information
*prices stated are exclusive of 9% GST.
Nothing in this website constitutes or is intended to constitute medical advice and readers rely on the statements contained herein at their own risk. Treatment results, experiences and downtime (if any) may vary by individuals. Please make an appointment with our clinic for a thorough medical assessment of your condition and treatment requirements.
Dr Kellyn Shiau graduated from University with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery. She also holds a Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine from the National University of Singapore.
After graduation, she practiced medicine in various major restructured hospitals and also privately with a well-established medical group in Singapore. She is experienced and has trained extensively in medical aesthetics for many years.
