Hot Stuff...

By: Mr Mark Whiteley
Created on 12th January 2010

Mr Mark Whiteley of Absolute Aesthetics breaks down the latest skin tightening treatment by Thermage

One of the most distressing things about ageing is when the skin becomes looser and crepey. This can be particularly noticeable on the face.

Although there are many different devices that claim effective skin tightening, the first and most well known is the Thermage system of radiofrequency tightening.

It was developed in the USA over 15 years ago, following the observation by a plastic surgeon that when the skin was heated it contracted. Research was then undertaken to show the optimal amount of heat that could be put into the skin to tighten it as much as possible. The result was Thermage.

Thermage uses an electric current that is passed through a hand piece which causes heating of the skin exactly where the tip is positioned. The Thermage NXT machine that we use at Absolute Aesthetics has a very fast cycle of almost instant heating and then cooling to give the maximum heating effect with minimum discomfort.

The advantage of radiofrequency current over laser or other treatments using light technology is that it doesn't matter about skin colour, or if there are any blemishes on the area to be treated. Thermage works purely by contact, producing its heat deep under the skin rather than just shining powerful lasers or other light at the skin's surface.

There is an immediate tightening of the skin that is usually noticeable straightaway and it feels like you have been lying in the sun for the afternoon. Unlike many treatments that can cause breaks in the skin, peeling or extreme redness, almost everyone can wear make-up and carry on life as normal following a Thermage treatment. The tightening effect continues for the next three to six months as the collagen in the skin continues to remodel, giving an improved look with time.

Developments in Thermage mean that not only can the face be treated, but now also the eyelids and other areas of the body. Using the latest deeper tips, cellulite can be improved as well.
CS&AM