XERF vs Thermage vs Ultherapy

If you are comparing non-surgical skin tightening in Bangkok, three names keep coming up: XERF, Thermage FLX and Ultherapy Prime. They are often treated as rivals — but they do different jobs. Here is a clear, doctor-led comparison to find which fits your face.

In short

XERF — dual-frequency RF, dermis to SMAS, tightens without reducing fat.
Thermage FLX — single-frequency RF focused on the dermis.
Ultherapy Prime — focused ultrasound aimed at the SMAS.
The right choice depends on your laxity and goals — confirmed by a doctor.

The quick answer

They are not the same tool

XERF combines 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz in Deep mode, with overlapping thermal effects in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Thermage uses monopolar RF to heat collagen-rich dermal and subcutaneous septal tissue. Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound with selectable focal depths and real-time imaging to assess the tissue plane. "Best" depends on what your face needs — not on which brand is most famous.

Schematic XERF Deep-mode 6.78 and 2 MHz overlapping distributions, Thermage tissue heating and selectable Ultherapy focal depths — Schematic only, not a measured thermal map or anatomical scale. RF distributions overlap and vary with tissue and settings. Ultherapy dot positions illustrate selectable focal depths, not a fixed millimetre-to-layer mapping for every face. XERF is shown in Deep mode; the training document specifies 6.78 MHz for Shallow and Middle modes.

Side by side

How they compare

Feature	XERF	Thermage FLX	Ultherapy Prime
Technology	Dual-frequency RF	Single-frequency RF	Focused ultrasound
Tissue / focal depth	Dermis and subcutis; varies with mode, pulse pattern and tissue	Dermis and subcutaneous fibrous septa	Nominal focal depths of 1.5 / 3.0 / 4.5 mm; tissue plane assessed with imaging
Fat impact	Realigns (non-destructive)	May reduce fat	Does not affect fat
Comfort	Very comfortable	More sensation	Moderate
Downtime	None	Mild redness	Possible swelling
Best for	Tightening + contour + skin quality	Firming + fat reduction	Deep structural lift

The same device, mapped to your anatomy, is what makes the result look natural.

Choosing

Which is right for you?

Want tightening plus skin quality without losing volume? XERF is often a strong fit — especially for leaner faces. Mainly surface firmness and comfortable with more sensation? Thermage may suit. Deeper structural descent needing a focused lift? Ultherapy Prime is built for that. Many patients do best with a combination over time — which is what a consultation is for.

It helps that we also hydrate the skin before every XERF session — well-hydrated tissue conducts RF more evenly, which supports a comfortable, consistent treatment.

Can I have XERF and Ultherapy together?

Often yes, and they can be staged over time because they address different layers. Your doctor advises on sequence and spacing.

Which treatment is most comfortable?

XERF is generally described as very low discomfort with no downtime. Comfort still varies by individual and area.

How long do results last?

Both work by stimulating collagen, so results develop over 1–3 months. Many people have repeat treatment every 9–12 months. Individual results vary.

Not sure which is right? Ask our doctors

Every plan begins with a structural facial assessment and an honest recommendation — in clear English or Thai. No fixed templates, no pressure.

LINE @Behapwellness · Asoke 096-549-4693 · Bangna 092-391-9466

Individual results vary and depend on skin condition, age and lifestyle. XERF suitability is assessed by a physician during consultation. This article is for education only — it is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a guarantee of results.