If what you’re after is a tight, lifted look, there’s no shortage of facials and DIY techniques to try, from injections to a gua sha massage. One of the latest innovations EMFACEwhich is an option that should be on your radar, especially if you’re averse to needlework.

EMFACE is a two-to-one procedure that is both needle-free and non-invasive. Unlike injections, facial tools and massages, EMFACE targets facial muscles and skin at the same time – something never seen before. “It tackles facial aging concerns in a new way without pain or downtime,” says Jennifer Levine, M.D., a dual-board certified facial plastic surgeon. “It really is the face of the future.”

The 20-minute treatment, administered in a series of four sessions, uses radiofrequency combined with muscle stimulation from the HIFES brand to boost collagen, improve flexibility, and strengthen facial muscles for a tightening effect. “After completing the full course,” says Paul Jarrod Frank, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist, patients will see “long-term results with an overall improvement in facial structure and skin quality.”

So what is EMFACE and what exactly is an experience? Here, all these questions and more – answered

What is EMFACE?

If the name sounds familiar, it could be because EMFACE is the sister treatment to the popular body toning device, EMSCULPT NEO. Just like the body sculpting treatment, EMFACE treats the skin and muscles. EMFACE uses HIFES brand muscle stimulation to help tighten and strengthen facial muscles. “By combining muscle stimulation with radio frequency, EMFACE targets the deeper layers of tissue, treating the skin from the inside out,” says Dr. Levine.

What kind of results do you expect?

Short answer: a smoother, lifted look. EMFACE targets the entire face, including the facial muscles that raise the eyebrows (the forehead) as well as those that raise the corners of the mouth (the zygomatic large and small). Dr. says. “The RF component can help [rebuilding] Collagen and elastin also help with wrinkles.”

Because the device can match the unique features of each face and selectively activate and contract individual facial muscles, there are no conclusive cookie results. Your specialist can do a side brow lift, add facial definition and contour the cheeks, define the jaw line, improve skin texture and wrinkles – there’s so much variety.

Who is a candidate for EMFACE?

Dr. Jarrod Frank says anyone looking to make structural improvements to the face can benefit, because EMFACE works as a preventative, corrective or restorative treatment, so it can target concerns at different stages of the aging process. The device could be used as an entry-level treatment in younger patients or, he says, “for older patients looking for the most natural and proactive approach to reversing the signs of aging.”

It’s also a great alternative for patients who hate needles, who want a non-frosted or lifted look, or who want to address facial asymmetry without the use of injections. And if you already have toxins and/or fillers in place, EMFACE can be used in tandem for enhanced results. For example, EMFACE can help lift the forehead area, while Detox can be given to smooth frown lines.

What happens during an EMFACE appointment?

Adhesive applicators are placed on different muscles of your face, and a floor pad will be attached to your back to ensure the safe conduction of the radio frequency. The applicators deliver electrical pulses to stimulate the muscles of a specific facial group to improve facial structure, and at the same time, allow radiofrequency energy to target collagen and elasticity to tighten and smooth lines. Each session only takes 20 minutes, and no prep treatments or downtime are required.

Of course you are wondering, is this painful? Your sessions shouldn’t be painful, although you will feel some sensation. As Dr. Levine explains, “The process feels a little snug, like moving fingers on top of your head. You’ll also feel the corners of your mouth go up. [slightly]. ”

When will you see results?

Patients can notice a difference immediately after one session, but for best results, they should follow a treatment protocol of four (spaced five to ten days). The final effect will appear around the six to 12 week mark. “Although results are long-lasting, maintenance therapies are recommended and vary depending on the person’s age and desired outcome,” says Dr. Jarrod Frank.

To learn more about EMFACE and find a provider, click here.