Just like any type of cosmetic procedure, HIFU treatment for face side effects can be something that might worry many patients. Though relatively new, HIFU technology is considered one of the safest methods of delivering ultrasound energy within the cosmetic industry today. Many skin care enthusiasts who have gone through this treatment have witnessed the way it can effectively improve the overall integrity of the skin.
How HIFU Works and Why It’s Safe
Before HIFU treatment became a popular cosmetic treatment, it was first utilized as an effective way to cure benign tumors and cancer cells. HIFU is an abbreviation for High-intensity focused ultrasound. It was considered one of the safest forms of treatment due to the fact that it does not damage any cells when applied to the body.
It started becoming more popular in the cosmetics industry after 2008; when it was first used as an aesthetic treatment to stimulate collagen within the skin. Ultrasound technology has since then evolved and so did many innovations that revolve around it. HIFU treatment is now one of the most reliable skin care methods in the 21st century and has even been made portable as a device by some cosmetic companies. HIFU works by using ultrasound energy to target areas of the dermis.
Heat is then released onto the skin, causing minimal damage throughout each layer. This helps the body restore its regenerative abilities by producing more collagen. When collagen production improves, the skin can repair itself better by replacing damaged cells with healthy cells. As with other skin treatments, a doctor must be consulted before the procedure to avoid HIFU treatment for face side effects.
A typical HIFU session takes 30 to 90 minutes, and results can last up to 6 months to a year. Though generally, people can go through another session after 3 months provided that a go-signal is given by a medical professional. Before performing each treatment, the medical practitioner must clean the target area to avoid any problems or complications during or after the procedure.
A topical anesthetic could be applied, then an ultrasound gel so that the HIFU machine can glide smoothly over the skin. The energy emitted by the HIFU machine can be customized depending on the area that will be treated. During the procedure, the energy of the ultrasound is given in short pulses through different layers of the skin in order to properly ensure the production of collagen.
Skin Conditions HIFU Can Address
- Reduces or eliminates fine lines and wrinkles.
- Gets rid of sagging skin or wrinkles around the neck and decolletage area.
- Tightens and contours different areas of the face.
- Defines areas of the jaw for a more youthful look.
- Smoothens the skin by addressing signs of acne, hyperpigmentation, or scarring.
What to Expect Post Treatment
After treatment, patients may experience some redness or swelling in the area, which usually disappears quickly. Most patients can resume normal daily activities after the procedure, which is why many people choose HIFU as their go-to non-invasive skin rejuvenation and face lift treatment. Though many people worry about HIFU treatment for face side effects, complications will not arise if proper aftercare is performed. To avoid common side effects be sure to:
1. Wear Sunscreen
One of the major causes of premature aging and skin irritation is prolonged exposure to the sun. The harmful UV rays of the sun can also cause major complications to the skin especially after undergoing a type of skin rejuvenation treatment such as HIFU. This is why it’s always necessary to limit your sun exposure but if this cannot be avoided, applying a generous amount of sunscreen every time you leave the house is necessary. A sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 or even higher is always the recommended type of product by many dermatological experts.
2. Make Sure to Drink Enough Water
Though this might seem like typical medical advice you’d get from your family doctor, hydration is also a fundamental factor in the overall well-being of your skin. Since our bodies are made up of 60% water, drinking enough water is important when it comes to keeping our skin hydrated and moisturized. Dryness can often cause irritation and even premature aging which is why dermatologists would often advise drinking enough water every day. After undergoing a type of treatment like HIFU, redness and swelling may worsen when your skin is dry.
3. Avoid Smoking and Drinking
Another piece of advice that you might hear often is to avoid bad habits like drinking and smoking if you wish to take care of your skin. Nicotine and other chemicals found in cigarettes can often cause premature signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. It also reduces the flow of oxygen within the body which deters it from absorbing the right amount of nutrients you need for healthier skin. Drinking, on the other hand, can cause a histamine reaction which results in redness of the skin. If you wish to avoid HIFU for face side effects, it’s always better to avoid habits and incorporate the proper type of diet.
4. Whatever You Do, Don’t Scratch
After HIFU, it’s not uncommon to experience itching around the area where the treatment was performed. This is why it’s always important to take note that you must always avoid scratching anywhere near the area where the treatment was performed. This can cause further damage to the skin and may affect the way it heals. If severe itching occurs, medical experts would normally recommend using a topical solution to soothe and cleanse the skin.
5. Always Consult Your Doctors
The best way to avoid any HIFU treatment for face side effects is to follow your doctor’s advice before and after treatment. Normally, doctors would assess each patient to see how to approach each treatment. They might also advise patients to take certain vitamins that would help them prepare for the procedure. After HIFU, doctors would also observe how well the patients are healing and may address certain issues or healing obstacles they might experience. However, it’s unlikely that this would happen as the majority of patients heal without any issues and complications.
