I tried Emface, the Needle-free Alternative to Fillers

In the ever-evolving landscape of non-invasive beauty treatments, there's a new innovation on the scene that offers a face-lifting and toning alternative to injections. Emface, is a novel facial procedure by BTL, the ingenious minds behind the acclaimed body toning treatment, Emsculpt. Positioned as a needle-free alternative to fillers, it promises a more sculpted, tighter, and toned visage, Emface and is garnering considerable attention. I was one of the first in line to give the procedure a go. I had tried Emsculpt a few years ago and was quite impressed with the ab-tightening results, so was eager to see what a similar technology might do for my face...

Before my treatment, I decided to quiz specialist plastic surgeon Dr. Liew, who has been using Emface in his Shape Clinic for some time for his thoughts: “The outcome from patients completing the Emface treatment a combination of electrical energy and radiofrequency is remarkable she says. “Patients consistently report eyes appearing more open, a lifted lower face, and enhanced cheek volume, akin to the effects of filler but achieved through muscle toning.”

He explains that Emface is emerging as a trailblazer in the beauty realm, particularly appealing to those averse to traditional injectables. For those who cringe at the thought of needles, this novel procedure combines High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation (HIFES) with radiofrequency technology to enhance facial muscle tone and stimulate collagen – achieving results akin to traditional fillers but without the invasive aspect.

I’m wired up to some stick-on applicators and settle in for the 20 minute treatment. The non-invasive procedure leverages High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation (HIFES) and radiofrequency technology to improve the muscle tone of the uplifting facial muscle by increasing facial muscle density and stimulate collagen production. Dr. Liew adds that it has a unique ability to address and reverse the two primary causes of ageing – loss of facial muscle tone and collagen.

So how does it feel? It’s similar to Emsculpt in that the HIFES muscle contraction combined with a gentle radiofrequency, hijacks the muscles and contracts them, so you can feel the pull of that. While most people don’t find it painful at all, I had a bit of an ache in my teeth, which can occasionally happen.

“It depends on the individual, some people find it a bit intense but I actually fall asleep with it,” Dr Liew says, adding that it’s certainly tolerable for most and less painful than injections.

The Emface journey involves a series of four sessions, each lasting approximately 25 minutes. Contrary to the instant gratification of some treatments, Emface requires patience, with noticeable improvements surfacing around 90 days post-treatment and continuing to enhance over time. Dr. Liew suggests maintenance sessions once or twice a year for sustained results.

Before and after

Dr. Liew explains the differentiation from traditional fillers or Botox, pointing out that, “Emface creates filler-like effects naturally, without needles. While Botox paralyzes facial muscles, Emface employs radiofrequency heat to smooth lines and forehead wrinkles.” Having experienced all three treatments, he notes that Emface produces comparable results but with a more subtle outcome.

Before and after

When my results came in I was pleasantly surprised. While the photos are definitely not my favourite (I’m blaming the lighting), there’s a definite lifting and reshaping that’s visible. It’s hard to believe this was possible without needles or surgery.

Before and after

Despite its transformative potential, Emface does come with a notable caveat – the cost. With a price tag around $4,500 for a series of four sessions, it’s a premium investment. However, Dr. Liew attests to its patient satisfaction, with more than nine out of 10 patients expressing contentment, even among skeptics.

All in all, Emface heralds in a new era in “tweakments” that are about embracing the transformation without the invasive aspect, making it an enticing option for those looking for a lighter touch to a sculpted, tightened, and naturally enhanced complexion.

Head here find your nearest clinic that offers Emface.