HIFU or High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound is a treatment for skin tightening, skin lifting, and body sculpting at different depths of body tissue. The completely non-invasive HIFU machine works by targeting the deep layers of the skin, it promotes new collagen production and collagen regeneration at the source. The treatment is quick, very tolerable, and has no downtime. In this article, we’ll be discussing the dos and don’ts after getting a HIFU treatment.
HIFU Treatments
HIFU is a long-term, fat-burning treatment. Heat kills fat cells in specific target locations, such as the stomach or thighs. Not only does it burn fat, but it also boosts collagen production for firmer, firmer skin. HIFU machines are completely non-invasive, it works by targeting the deep layers of the skin to stimulate new collagen production and regeneration where needed. Through thermal and mechanical principles, HIFU can also accelerate the flow of blood or lymph or destroy tissues, such as tumors.
Skin tightening and contouring procedures using HIFU are non-invasive. The process is quick, about 8-10 minutes for facials and 15-30 minutes for spot body treatments. Although it takes six months for the effects to appear, most patients see immediate improvement. On the other hand, the technology can tighten sagging skin, reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture. It has also been reported that in about a quarter of cases, the effect of treatment is visible immediately after the first treatment, others usually see results 3-6 months after full treatment. HIFU treatment revitalizes your skin and it can last for up to two years.
This treatment can also be done at home. HIFU is also very effective and very safe for home treatment with a portable HIFU device, it is not required but following some guidelines before and after treatment will help it to be most effective.
Benefits of HIFU
1. Non-invasive
The biggest advantage of HIFU treatment is that it does not involve invasive operations such as incisions and sutures.
2. Low-risk procedure
Because it is a non-invasive procedure, it has few risk factors compared to invasive procedures that involve higher risk factors. The only problem is that it has a slight redness that goes away after a few hours.
3. Cost-effective treatment
HIFU technology is very affordable and makes it easier for people to receive treatment regardless of budget.
4. No need for recovery
Since this is a non-invasive procedure, there is no problem with any recovery period, unlike other invasive procedures that require a recovery period of 3 weeks to a month, depending on the extent of the incision. So, as soon as you are finished with your HIFU treatment, you can get back to your normal life right away.
Preparation for HIFU treatment
Before your HIFU treatment
As you approach your treatment day, make sure the treated area is free of any cold, sores, or fever so that anti-viral medications can be used for quick treatment. You can only receive HIFU treatment after these are gone. You might have to reschedule your HIFU treatment if you have any of these. Treatment can only be done after your full recovery.
If you are taking prescription medications (such as antibiotics), be sure to book your HIFU course at least two weeks after completing the prescribed course because there are some medications that can make your skin more sensitive to light. You must also avoid excessive sun exposure (or tanning) for at least 2 weeks before treatment.
On the day of your HIFU treatment
On the day of treatment, do not apply any makeup or moisturizer to the treatment area. However, you will need to use the ultrasound gel on the area, so make sure you have it before starting treatment.
After the treatment
With HIFU treatment, there is absolutely no downtime to recover. In fact, once you walk out of the clinic, you can return to your normal daily life. But aftercare is very important. It’s almost as important as the treatment itself.
Dos and don’ts after HIFU treatment
You’ll be able to get the longest lasting best results with aftercare. Without it, your treatment may not be as good as you would like it to be. So be sure to follow the dos and don’ts after HIFU treatment.
1. Prevent scratching your skin
Once you have a HIFU facelift, your skin is bound to be overly sensitive. Sensitive skin can occasionally feel a little itchy, and scratching can definitely hurt your skin. You must do your best to avoid scratching the itchy area. If you can’t stand it, splashing cold water on your face can help.
2.Avoid taking hot showers
Hot water tends to strip the skin’s natural protective oils. Your skin desperately needs these oils to avoid post-treatment skin irritation. Washing with cold water will keep the protective oil intact. If you must use hot water, temper it to ensure faster recovery of skin oils.
3.Avoid direct sunlight
Direct exposure to sunlight is harmful to HIFU-treated skin. You must be careful to avoid sun exposure for several weeks after receiving treatment. Overexposure to UV rays can lead to hyperpigmentation and other types of skin damage. Whenever you go out, be sure to apply sunscreen until you see the skin tightening process completely.
4.Do not drink alcoholic beverages while under aftercare
After your HIFU session, your body leaves some dead fat cells behind. When this happens, the liver breaks down the discarded fat before the body excretes it. Drinking alcohol just increases the liver’s workload and the liver has to work with fat to break down alcohol. This can be very dangerous to your overall health.
5.Use sunscreen
Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on the day of treatment and the following days to avoid any type of skin irritation from direct sun exposure.
6.Drink lots of water
However, proper hydration is always essential, especially after any type of medical or cosmetic treatment. After your HIFU treatment session, water helps restore collagen faster and more efficiently in the treated area
