Treatment review – Thermage FLX

The lowdown:
Solta Medical's Thermage FLX is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure used for skin tightening and contouring, designed to address sagging or loose skin, particularly on the face, eyes, neck, and body. The device uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening existing collagen fibres, leading to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin. The procedure can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and skin laxity without the need for surgery or downtime.

The experience:
I went to the beautiful Cranley Clinic on Harley Street and was welcomed by Sam Porter. I was interested in addressing my mid and lower face; at 46, I consider myself fairly lucky, but I am starting to see laxity in this area. Sam told me that I would see a tightening of the area immediately, with a steady improvement over the next six months. She mapped my face out for accuracy and passed the device over areas so that heat penetrated the skin to reach the underlying tissues. This thermal energy triggers a natural response in the body, stimulating collagen and remodelling. The experience isn’t particularly relaxing, but I wouldn't describe it as painful; I felt short bursts of heat, which gradually intensified as the treatment continued, delivering controlled RF energy to the desired areas. The device beeped to indicate when Sam had to move to the next area of skin. When I experienced discomfort, I was offered the patented Comfort Pulse Technology to quickly cool the epidermis with a cryogen. The whole treatment took around an hour; the sensation was tolerable and I wouldn’t be put off doing it again.

The Verdict:
Immediately after treatment, I was amazed at how good my skin looked, as if I had a five-star facial. There was very little redness and a definite tightening effect, with my cheekbones appearing lifted. My skin felt thicker and bouncier too, an effect that Sam said improves with time. I wanted to try this treatment because it is low maintenance and the results last between one to two years, depending on personal factors. Two months on, I am still enjoying the amazing results this treatment has provided and several people have commented on how well I am looking.

Business benefits:
The Thermage FLX device would be a worthwhile investment for treating patients with a needle or surgery phobia.