By Josh Sim, Aesthetic and Non-Surgical Facelift Specialist
20/03/2024
Thermage FLX has gained a reputation as one of the most comfortable and effective non-surgical skin tightening treatments available. Despite its growing popularity, there are misconceptions about the pain associated with the procedure and the use of numbing cream. This blog post aims to correct these perceptions, explain why numbing cream should not be applied prior to Thermage FLX, and discuss how this approach can actually enhance the procedure's results and safety, without compromising the level of comfort and efficacy of Thermage FLX.
What is Thermage FLX?
Thermage FLX is a non-invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and resulting in tighter, smoother skin. It's known for its ability to deliver significant results with minimal downtime.
Key Benefits
Non-invasive: No surgery or injections required.
Quick and convenient: Treatments typically last between 30 to 90 minutes.
Long-lasting results: Effects can last for years with proper skin care.
The Perceived Pain of Thermage FLX
Addressing Common Misconceptions
Many people are concerned about the potential pain associated with Thermage FLX. While some discomfort is normal with any procedure that involves skin heating, the level of pain is often overestimated.
Client Experiences
Most clients describe the sensation as a series of brief, mild heat pulses, followed by cooling sensations to protect the skin. The Thermage FLX system is designed with comfort in mind, incorporating advanced cooling mechanisms and temperature monitoring to ensure patient comfort.
Why Numbing Cream Shouldn't Be Used
Impact on Treatment Efficacy
Numbing cream can interfere with the Thermage FLX procedure. It can alter the skin's response to the radiofrequency energy, potentially leading to uneven heating and suboptimal results.
Risk of Burns
Numbing creams may mask pain signals that indicate when the skin is being overheated. This can increase the risk of burns or other adverse effects because the practitioner may not receive accurate feedback from the client about their comfort levels.
Skin Barrier Function
Numbing creams can compromise the skin's barrier function, making it more vulnerable to irritation and inflammation. This can negatively impact the healing process and the overall outcome of the treatment.
The Comfort of Thermage FLX Without Numbing Cream
Advanced Cooling Technology
Thermage FLX incorporates advanced cooling technology that continuously cools the skin's surface during the treatment. This helps to minimise discomfort and protect the outer layers of the skin from heat damage.
Real-Time Feedback Mechanisms
The Thermage FLX system monitors the skin's temperature in real-time, allowing the practitioner to adjust the energy levels as needed to ensure comfort and safety.
Client Communication
Open communication between the patient and practitioner is crucial. Patients are encouraged to provide feedback about their comfort levels throughout the procedure, allowing for immediate adjustments to be made.
Enhancing Treatment Results and Safety
Optimal Energy Delivery
Without the interference of numbing cream, the Thermage FLX device can deliver energy more effectively. This ensures that the deeper layers of the skin are adequately heated, leading to better collagen stimulation and more significant tightening results.
Reduced Risk of Adverse Effects
By avoiding numbing cream, clients can better communicate their comfort levels, reducing the risk of overheating and burns. This leads to a safer treatment with fewer complications.
Faster Recovery
Treatments performed without numbing cream are less likely to cause irritation or inflammation, resulting in a quicker recovery time. Clients can resume their normal activities almost immediately, with minimal downtime.
Preparing for Thermage FLX
Skin Hydration
Ensuring that the skin is well-hydrated before the treatment can enhance comfort and improve results. Hydrated skin is more resilient and responds better to the radiofrequency energy.
Nutritional Support
A diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support collagen production, such as Vitamin C, can prepare the skin for optimal results. These nutrients help to strengthen the skin and promote healing.
Post-Treatment Care
Hydration and Moisturisation
Continuing to hydrate and moisturise the skin after the treatment is essential for maintaining results. Use gentle, hydrating products to support the skin's healing process.
Sun Protection
Protecting the skin from sun exposure is crucial after Thermage FLX. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent UV damage and maintain the treatment's benefits.
Conclusion
Thermage FLX is a comfortable and effective non-surgical skin tightening treatment that offers significant results with minimal downtime. By avoiding the use of numbing cream, clients can enhance the procedure's efficacy and safety while reducing the risk of adverse effects. Understanding the true sensations associated with Thermage FLX and preparing the skin properly can lead to a more comfortable and successful treatment experience.