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[Seongsu/Ttukseom] Why Sio Clinic Introduced Therf Instead of Thermage

July 21, 2026shioclinic
[Seongsu/Ttukseom] Why Sio Clinic Introduced Therf Instead of Thermage

[Seongsu/Ttukseom] Why Sio Clinic

Introduced Therf Instead of Thermage

Therf and Thermage are both radiofrequency,

so why aren't they the same procedure?

Hello, this is Sio Clinic.

If you are interested in lifting procedures these days,

you have likely heard the names 'Thermage'

or 'Therf' at least once.

"Isn't Thermage the go-to for radiofrequency lifting?"

"How is Therf different from Thermage?"

"They say it's less painful, but is it really effective?"

Our patients often ask us

these questions as well.

When considering elasticity treatments,

many people choose based solely on

trendy equipment or brand names.

However, skin thickness, the direction of sagging,

and the depth to which energy needs to reach

vary for everyone.

In today's post, we would like to explain

why Sio Clinic introduced Therf lifting,

and detail the principles and differences

between these two radiofrequency devices.

Q1. Therf and Thermage are both radiofrequency, so why are they different?

The commonality between the two devices is that they utilize RF,

or radiofrequency energy.

The basic principle of inducing collagen contraction

and regeneration by applying thermal stimulation

to the skin to help improve elasticity is the same.

However, there is a significant difference

in how the energy is delivered into the skin.

Traditional Thermage uses single radiofrequency

to promote overall skin elasticity.

Strong cooling is activated to prevent surface damage,

and as cooling and energy alternate,

you feel a characteristic stinging heat.

On the other hand, Therf adopts a 'dual radiofrequency'

method that alternates between two frequencies,

6.78MHz and 2MHz.

Since energy is not concentrated all at once

but is delivered to both shallow and deep layers,

it has the characteristic of efficiently delivering heat

with only gentle cooling.

Q2. If there is less pain, is the effect weaker?

This is also a question we receive very often.

To give you the conclusion first, perceived pain

and skin reaction are not necessarily proportional.

The reason Therf feels less painful during the procedure

is not because the energy intensity is weak,

but because of its unique delivery structure

that calmly pushes energy in while protecting the surface.

Because it delivers energy to the dermis

while reducing skin surface irritation,

it can induce sufficient stimulation

while lowering the perceived burden.

However, just because it is less painful

does not mean it is suitable for all skin types.

If the skin is very thin or sensitive,

or if there is a history of previous procedures,

it is essential to carefully adjust

the energy intensity and range

according to the individual's skin condition.

Q3. What changes can I expect after a Therf procedure?

Rather than a change that excessively pulls the skin,

Therf is a procedure that helps fill in natural elasticity

and refine contours along the direction of sagging.

You can mainly expect changes

in the following areas:

· Reduction of sagging in the cheek area

· Refinement of dull jawline contours

· Improvement of overall dense skin elasticity

· Improvement of skin texture caused by fine lines

· Correction of heavy-looking, sagging face lines

However, if the sagging is already severe or

there is a lot of fat, radiofrequency alone

might leave something to be desired.

In such cases, it may be helpful to consider

ultrasound equipment or non-surgical methods

together, depending on your skin condition.

Q4. How long does the maintenance period last?

Radiofrequency elasticity procedures show a primary

contraction feeling due to heat immediately after,

followed by a flow of collagen regeneration

over time.

Although there are individual differences,

we explain the general progress as follows:

· Immediately after: Tightening sensation due to heat stimulation

· After several weeks: Gradually filling elasticity

· Lasting several months: Elasticity maintenance based on individual response

The maintenance period varies depending on

individual lifestyle habits, skin thickness,

and the degree of collagen response.

Therefore, rather than a definitive period,

we recommend setting a management cycle

that suits you through an individual diagnosis.

Q5. Why Sio Clinic introduced Therf

The reason Sio Clinic in Seongsu/Ttukseom

introduced and utilizes Therf is

because it can deliver customized energy

to each skin layer while reducing the burden

of procedural pain felt by our patients.

While it is clear that Thermage is a long-proven device,

Therf is an excellent option for those who are

sensitive to pain or require meticulous care

according to skin layers.

What is important is not the reputation of the equipment

or the reviews of others.

· Skin thickness and elasticity status

· Location and direction where sagging began

· Fat layer thickness and distribution

· Pain sensitivity during the procedure

Carefully examining all these items in advance

and designing an energy method that fits you

is the key to desirable lifting.

This article is adapted from SHIO Clinic's official Naver blog.

Have questions about your skin?

Book a consultation and let SHIO Clinic's diagnosis guide you to the right treatment.