Skin laxity is one of the most visible signs of aging—often more noticeable than fine lines. It’s what causes cheeks to flatten, jawlines to soften, and skin to lose its youthful resilience. For those seeking a lift without surgery, two major non-invasive options often come up: radiofrequency (RF) and ultrasound.
But how do they differ? And more importantly—how do they perform on your skin type, facial structure, and goals?
This guide breaks down the science, benefits, and trade-offs of both technologies and explains why RF skin tightening is often the preferred solution at Celebrity Laser & Skin Care in North Vancouver.
Here is the Quick Answer:
RF and ultrasound are both non-surgical skin tightening options, but they work differently. RF heats the dermis to boost collagen, improve elasticity, and smooth texture—safely for all skin types. Ultrasound reaches deeper, lifting specific areas like the jawline or brow. At Celebrity Laser & Skin Care, RF is typically preferred for broader rejuvenation with less discomfort and downtime. The best treatment depends on your skin type, laxity level, and goals. Book a consultation for a tailored anti-aging plan.
The Real Issue: Laxity, Not Just Lines
When most people think about aging skin, they focus on fine lines and wrinkles. But what truly changes your appearance isn’t just creasing—it’s laxity.
Skin laxity refers to the gradual loosening and sagging of skin as collagen and elastin production decline. This isn’t just a surface issue. It affects the deeper support structure of your face, changing contours over time.
That’s why eye creams and surface serums can only go so far. If your cheeks are flattening, your jawline is softening, or your neck is losing firmness, the problem lies deeper.
Both RF and ultrasound technologies aim to restore firmness, but not all types of laxity respond the same way. Some skin needs lifting. Others need rebuilding. Some need both.
Understanding what kind of laxity you have—and at what depth—determines the right treatment approach.Treating only the surface will leave you chasing results that don’t last.
What is RF skin tightening and why does it work?
Radiofrequency (RF) skin tightening uses controlled heat energy to stimulate collagen and elastin production deep within the dermis—without harming the surface of your skin.
This treatment works by gently heating the skin’s structural layers to approximately 50–75°C. At this temperature, your body’s healing response kicks in and tells the skin to lift, tighten, and renew.1
At Celebrity Laser & Skin Care, we offer advanced RF technologies like Forma and Sublime, which allow us to tailor the energy depth and intensity to match your skin tone, texture, and firmness level.
Why Clients Prefer RF:
- Minimal Downtime: Most clients resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
- Comfortable Experience: Sessions are typically painless, with only a warm sensation felt.
- Gradual, Natural Results: Improvements in tone and texture appear progressively over 2–6 months.2
- Safe for All Skin Types: Unlike some lasers, RF doesn’t target pigment, making it ideal for darker or sensitive skin.
RF skin tightening is not just about surface smoothing, it helps rebuild structure from within. That’s what makes it one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for visible skin rejuvenation.
How Ultrasound Skin Lifting Works
Ultrasound skin tightening—often known by its brand name, Ultherapy—uses focused sound waves to heat deeper layers of skin than radiofrequency treatments typically reach. Unlike RF, which disperses heat broadly, ultrasound energy targets very specific depths.
This focused energy penetrates to the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), the same layer lifted in surgical facelifts. Once there, it creates precise thermal injuries that trigger collagen production and tissue contraction.
Key Advantages:
- Deep Reach: Ultrasound bypasses the surface to affect the deeper structural layers of skin.
- Non-Invasive Lift: Results develop gradually and can mimic the effects of subtle lifting.
- Defined Targeting: Best suited for sculpting specific areas like the brows, jawline, or neck.
Limitations to Consider:
- Discomfort: Some clients experience more discomfort than with RF, especially without numbing.
- Less Versatile: Ultrasound is most effective for mild-to-moderate sagging, not for crepey skin or widespread laxity.
- Skin Type Sensitivity: Results can vary on thinner, more photodamaged, or sensitive skin.
While ultrasound lifting works well in the right context, it’s not always the ideal standalone solution—especially for those seeking textural improvements or broader rejuvenation.
RF vs. Ultrasound: Side-by-Side Comparison
Deciding between RF and ultrasound for skin tightening doesn’t have to be guesswork. Both are non-surgical, collagen-boosting treatments—but they work differently and suit different skin needs.
Here’s how they compare at a glance:
Key Differences Between RF and Ultrasound for Skin Tightening | ||
| Feature | RF Skin Tightening | Ultrasound Skin Lifting |
| Technology | Radiofrequency (Heat-Based) | Focused Ultrasound (Soundwave-Based) |
| Depth of Penetration | Superficial to Mid-Dermis | Deep (Reaches SMAS Layer) |
| Treatment Comfort | Gentle, with Numbing; Warm Sensation | Sharper, Pinpoint Energy; May Be Uncomfortable |
| Best For | Mild to Moderate Laxity; Crepey Skin | Mild Sagging in Defined Zones (Brow, Jawline) |
| Customizability | High—Adjustable Depth, Frequency, Coverage | Low—Fixed Energy Pattern |
| Downtime | Minimal—May Include Mild Redness | None to Mild Swelling or Tenderness |
| Skin Types | Safe for All Skin Tones | Best for Lighter, Firmer Skin |
Why We Recommend RF Skin Tightening at Celebrity Laser & Skin Care
At Celebrity Laser & Skin Care, RF skin tightening is a cornerstone treatment—trusted for its flexibility, comfort, and results. For most clients with mild to moderate laxity, especially in the lower face or neck, RF offers consistent improvement in tone and firmness without surgery.
Here’s why our approach delivers results:
Tailored Technology, Not Trend Chasing
We use clinically advanced RF platforms calibrated to your skin tone, thickness, and sensitivity. Whether you need microneedling with RF or targeted skin tightening, each setting is selected based on your personal aging pattern—not guesswork.
Clinically Trained Team
All treatments are performed by licensed laser specialists and medical aestheticians trained in skin anatomy and energy-based modalities. You’re in expert hands that understand both the science and aesthetics of facial aging.
Integrated Anti-Aging Plans
RF isn’t a stand-alone fix. We often combine it with complementary treatments like injectables, skin boosters, or facials for amplified results. Your treatment plan is fully customized to support your goals over time.
A Space That Matches the Service
From the moment you arrive at our North Vancouver clinic, the focus is on comfort, discretion, and care. We believe clinical treatments should feel just as restorative as they are effective.
Is RF or Ultrasound Right for You?
If you’re noticing Jawline softening, crepey skin, or mild laxity, RF skin tightening is typically the more effective, comfortable option.
For specific sagging in defined zones like the brow or under the chin, ultrasound may help, but results are narrower and often less versatile.
Still unsure? That’s what a consultation is for. We assess your skin’s condition and build a treatment plan around what’s safest, most effective, and worth your investment.
