The Rise of Non-Invasive Ultrasound Therapies
As the demand for non-invasive facial rejuvenation rises, ultrasound-based technologies are taking center stage. There are many facial rejuvenation devices on the market – Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime are two industry-leading devices making waves in the world of skin tightening and collagen stimulation. For estheticians and skincare professionals, understanding how each works—and who benefits most from each—is critical in making confident treatment recommendations.
The Science Behind Ultrasound Skin Tightening
Both Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime utilize focused ultrasound energy, but they do so in unique ways:
- Ultrasound Energy: Delivers heat at specific depths to stimulate a wound-healing response.
- Thermal Coagulation Zones: Heat denatures collagen, triggering fibroblast activity and the formation of new, tighter collagen over time.
- Non-Invasive Approach: Unlike lasers, ultrasound penetrates without damaging the epidermis, making these procedures safer for a range of skin types.
May 2025 L+A Report
Why Feminine Health Matters to Medical + Spa Aesthetic Professionals
For decades, menopause was spoken about in hushed tones—if at all. Referred to simply as “the change,” it often carried a vague, almost mysterious connotation. We grew up hearing about hot flashes on sitcoms, where menopause was portrayed as a punchline or a dreaded life event. I can still remember episodes where characters treated it like the end of youth, the end of beauty, or even the end of relevance.
But things are changing.
Thanks to mainstream advocates—yes, even Oprah—the conversation around menopause and feminine health is shifting into the spotlight. We’re finally seeing more open, honest discussions about how hormonal transitions impact the entire body, not just fertility.
Sofwave: Next-Gen Superficial Ultrasound
How It Works:
Sofwave uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology to target the mid-dermis (1.5 mm depth). The energy is evenly distributed across a wide area, making it effective for reducing fine lines, lifting eyebrows, and improving skin laxity in the lower face and neck.
Key Benefits:
- Shorter treatment time (30–45 minutes)
- Comfortable treatment with minimal downtime
- FDA-cleared for brow, submental, and neck lifting
- Safe across Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI
Ideal Patient:
Patients in their late 30s to 50s with early signs of laxity and fine lines who want subtle, natural-looking tightening without discomfort or downtime.
Dr. Krystal Briglia, L+A Medical + Wellness Contributor
Dr. Krystal Briglia of Triada Integrative Medicine + Wellness is a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in aesthetic dermatology, integrative medicine, and wellness. She has an extensive and diverse background in healthcare, with over a decade of experience working in emergency, critical care, trauma, aesthetics, healthcare administration, and healthcare education. Krystal holds multiple board certifications, including family practice, emergency, and critical care. Her educational background includes two undergraduate degrees, a degree in health sciences, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Delaware. She holds three graduate-level degrees, including a master’s degree in nursing leadership, a master’s degree in business administration, and completed her nurse practitioner education at the University of Massachusetts. In 2016, Krystal completed her clinical doctorate in nursing practice. Dr. Briglia is an entrepreneur and specializes in organizational process improvement. She is a Lean Six Sigma master black belt, a certified Six Sigma champion, and a certified Kaizen facilitator. She also has a passion for education and spent 6 years teaching health profession graduate-level courses. During that time, she held a lead faculty position and helped the university develop a family nurse practitioner program from inception to credentialing and first graduates. Read Full Bio
Ultherapy Prime: Precision at Deeper Layers
How It Works:
Ultherapy Prime employs micro-focused ultrasound to heat tissue at deeper levels (up to 4.5 mm)—the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts. Real-time imaging ensures precision targeting of the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system).
Key Benefits:
- Targets deeper structural layers of skin
- Effective for more dramatic lifting in the jawline, neck, and brow
- Imaging allows for personalized, accurate treatment
- Results visible within 3 months and can last over a year
Ideal Patient:
Patients in their 40s to 60s with moderate to advanced laxity who may be considering a surgical lift but prefer a non-invasive option.
Sofwave vs. Ultherapy Prime: At a Glance
| Feature | Software | Ultherapy Prime |
| Depth of Penetration | 1.5 mm (mid-dermis) | Up to 4.5 mm (SMAS layer) |
| Downtime | Minimal | Moderate (mild swelling/redness) |
| Discomfort Level | Low (often no numbing needed) | Moderate (numbing usually required) |
| FDA-Cleared Areas | Brow, submental, neck | Full face, neck, décolletage |
| Best For | Early signs of aging | Advanced laxity and lifting |
Which Device Should You Choose for Your Patients?
Recommend Sofwave If:
- Your patient seeks preventative anti-aging.
- They prefer minimal discomfort and quick treatments.
- They want collagen support with subtle lifting.
Recommend Ultherapy Prime If:
- Your patient has visible sagging in the lower face or neck.
- They’re seeking more dramatic, facelift-like results.
- They are open to a slightly longer recovery period.
Final Thoughts
Both Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime are powerful, non-invasive tools that support long-term collagen regeneration and skin tightening. The key is patient selection and individualized treatment planning. By understanding the differences in energy depth, comfort level, and clinical goals, estheticians and skincare pros can confidently match clients to the right device and combine complementary treatment modalities for maximum results.
Investing in the right technology starts with education—and ends with beautiful, age-defying skin.