How to Find the Perfect Lifting Procedure to Target Wrinkles and Improve Elasticity at Any Age (20s to 60s)

Aging might be inevitable, but slowing it down is totally possible! These days, the trend is more about "slow-aging" rather than "anti-aging." The way you address aging should change as you go through your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s. In this blog, I’ll introduce some of the most popular lifting treatments in Korea for wrinkles and elasticity. Plus, I’ll share my personal experience with one of these procedures—so make sure to read until the end!

👇 If the following applies to you, make sure to read to the end! 👇

• I’m curious about the difference between Ultrasound Lifting (HIFU) and Radiofrequency Lifting (RF) procedures 
• I want to get dermatology treatments while traveling in Korea
• I’m interested in the latest trends in lifting procedures in Korea

If you're concerned about different skin problems, check out our other blogs in the link below!

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Types of Lifting Treatments in Korea

Lifting procedures can be largely divided into Ultrasound Lifting (HIFU) and Radiofrequency Lifting (RF)! Both methods transfer energy to the muscle layer (SMAS) beneath the skin, stimulating collagen production and increasing elasticity. However, because the mechanism of action and effects are different, the appropriate target differs slightly as well.

1. Ultrasound Lifting (HIFU)

Source: Medicube Clinic

Ultrasound lifting treatments use high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) energy to selectively deliver heat to specific layers of the skin, including the SMAS layer (the fascia layer). This heat energy not only helps address skin sagging and aging effectively but also provides fat-reduction benefits. Based on the device's country of origin, ultrasound lifting devices are broadly categorized into "U.S.-made devices" and "Korean-made devices." Among these, the most commonly used ultrasound lifting devices in Korean skin clinics are:

• ULTHERA
• SHURINK / SHURINK UNIVERSE
• TUNE FACE

1a. Ulthera

One of the devices I personally tried this time is the renowned Ulthera! While it’s pricey, the results are undeniable. Many people visiting Korea after a long time often pair it with Thermage to slow down aging and improve their facial contours. If budget is a concern, I recommend combining Ulthera with another Korean-made ultrasound lifting device, as I did. This combination is one of the popular packages frequently recommended by Korean dermatology clinics!

1b. Shurink

Shurink is an ultrasound lifting treatment that uses high-intensity ultrasound energy to target the skin’s fascia layer, helping to improve sagging facial contours. In Korea, Shurink devices are currently categorized into third-generation and fourth-generation models. The fourth-generation model, commonly known as Shurink Universe, is often referred to as the cost-effective alternative to Ulthera!

Source: RenewMe Clinic

Shurink isn’t just for the face—it also comes with an eye tip, making it suitable for smaller areas like around the eyes. The results typically last for about 6 months to a year, making it a great introductory option for those trying Korean skin treatments for the first time.

1c. Tune Face

Tune Face is a monopolar radiofrequency treatment that generates heat energy by rotating moisture within the skin. This heat stimulates skin tightening and promotes collagen production. Many Koreans combine Tune Face with treatments like Tune Liner or other ultrasound lifting procedures to enhance the results. With minimal pain and quick visible effects, it has become one of the most popular lifting treatments in Korea in recent years!

2. Radiofrequency Lifting (RF)

Source: Lush Angel

Radiofrequency (RF) lifting works by using electromagnetic waves to generate heat energy deep within the skin. This heat stimulates collagen production, helping to firm the skin and effectively address sagging and aging concerns. Like ultrasound devices, RF lifting devices are also categorized into U.S.-made and Korean-made options. Currently, the most commonly used RF lifting devices in Korean skin clinics include:

• THERMAGE
• OLIGIO
• VOLNEWMER

2a. Thermage

If you’re looking to firm and slim your face, you’ve probably heard of Thermage. This U.S.-made lifting device is well-known for delivering radiofrequency energy to the dermis layer, stimulating collagen regeneration, and improving wrinkles and elasticity. Thermage is particularly suitable for those without much facial fat or whose faces appear larger due to sagging, as RF lifting is often better than ultrasound lifting for enhancing skin elasticity and refining facial contours. However, since Thermage is quite pricey, it’s a treatment often recommended for those who do not regularly visit Korea and looking for noticeable results.

2b. Oligio

Source: Ollpichae Gangseo Branch 

Oligio lifting, often called the "cost-effective Thermage" or the "Korean version of Thermage," is a popular option! For younger individuals hesitant about the price or pain of lifting treatments, Oligio is one of the go-to procedures for regular maintenance. Since it’s a Korean-made device, the tips are designed specifically for Asian features. It even includes a custom tip for eye-area lifting, making it perfect for those looking to target smaller areas.

2c. Volnewmer

Source: Volnewmer Official Site

Volnewmer is almost pain-free and significantly more affordable than Thermage, making it a popular choice among Koreans! If you’re looking to not only improve skin elasticity and achieve lifting but also slim your face, combining it with an ultrasound lifting treatment can enhance the results.

3. Other Lifting Procedures 

In addition to the basic radiofrequency and ultrasound lifting treatments, there are various other popular procedures. Here are five of the hottest treatments in Korea over the past years: 

• INMODE 2nd GENERATION (FX & FORMA)
• BOTOX
• ONDA LIFTING
• SOPRANO TITANIUM (3-WAVELENGTH DIODE LASER)
• THREAD LIFTING

3a. InMode 2nd Generation 2 (FX & Forma)

InMode is an affordable option, making it a popular choice among younger Koreans who never tried lifting before! InMode FX uses heat energy to reduce subcutaneous fat, while InMode Forma boosts collagen production to improve skin elasticity. This treatment is especially effective for reducing double chins, and InMode FX can even be applied to the body. It’s highly recommended for those looking to slim areas like the thighs or abdomen!

3b. Botox

When it comes to slimming the face in Korea, Botox is a must-mention! With its affordable price and quick results, Botox is a popular choice that many Korean women get regularly. If you’re budget-conscious or prefer a treatment with no downtime, Botox is a great option. Visiting a professional dermatology clinic for Botox can make achieving a slimmer face easier than ever!

3c. Onda Lifting

If you ask about the hottest lifting treatments in Korea over the past two years, ONDA is definitely a standout! ONDA effectively targets fat accumulation and sagging skin, with its biggest advantage being the quick results you can see. The effects typically last about 6–8 weeks, and with no downtime, it’s especially recommended for those who frequently travel to Korea.

3d. Soprano Titanium (3-wavelength diode laser)

Titanium Lifting is another highly popular treatment in Korea these days! Originally designed for hair removal, the device has been adapted for lifting and improving skin elasticity. With minimal pain, fast results, and no recovery time, it’s an excellent emergency option for those with photo shoots or important events the next day.

3e. Thread Lifting

Source: O.N Clinic

Thread lifting is versatile and can be applied to various areas, including the forehead, glabella, eye area, cheeks, jawline, and chin. It’s also known for its relatively long-lasting results.

Source: Super Star Clinic

Thread lifting involves inserting absorbable medical threads into the skin, which have tiny barbs to support and lift sagging areas. Since it’s a minimally invasive procedure, thorough consultation and careful selection of a clinic are essential before undergoing treatment!

My Experience

[Anti-Aging Treatment Package] TuneThera V-Line Course

* Includes TuneLiner + Ulthera V-Line 100 shots + 12-minute LDM Water Drop Treatment

Aside from the basic radiofrequency and ultrasound lifting treatments, there are many other options for improving skin elasticity. Here are five of the most popular lifting treatments in Korean skin clinics over the past few years that I’ve come across!

I've had many treatments done at Abijou Clinic before. 

The clinic was clean and well-maintained, and the results were impressive, so I decided to visit Abijou Clinic again this time.

After a consultation with the doctor, I was recommended the “Wrinkle & Elasticity Package” to address my long-time concern about my jawline. This package combines ultrasound lifting with LDM care, making it a great option for not only enhancing facial contours but also improving overall skin health. The doctor explained that if you're looking to improve your face shape while being mindful of the cost, combining a Korean-made lifting device with a U.S.-made device is a better choice than doing Ulthera alone. It’s an effective way to achieve great results while saving big!

The process started with a quick facial cleanse before applying numbing cream. Since it was my first time getting a lifting treatment, they generously applied extra numbing cream to make sure I’d be comfortable with the pain. 

After applying the gel, they unwrapped a brand-new Ulthera tip in front of me and even showed me the authenticity check, which was really reassuring.

The whole process felt very reassuring, and I didn’t have to worry at all about them using a second-hand or counterfeit tip!

When you get an Ulthera lifting treatment, you usually receive a hologram authenticity card for every 100 shots. This kind of process ensures trust and guarantees that you’re getting a proper Ulthera treatment without any issues.

The doctor was very meticulous with the procedure and reassured me that if the pain was too much, they could lower the energy level. So just let them know if the pain is unbearable. I did feel a bit of discomfort, but it was more like a tingling sensation in my teeth. However, the doctor mentioned that if you’re wearing braces, it’s better to avoid ultrasound lifting as it can cause significant discomfort.

Next up was Tune Liner. This treatment uses ultrasound heat to burn subcutaneous fat, and during the session, I felt a gradual warming sensation on my skin. Compared to Ulthera, Tune Liner was virtually painless! The doctor explained that Tune Liner delivers immediate results and requires almost no recovery time, making it a great option for those with last-minute plans or travelers on a short visit to Korea.

After the ultrasound lifting treatment, the doctor soothed my skin with LDM Waterdrop Lifting and then applied a sheet mask. LDM Waterdrop not only enhances the effects of ultrasound lifting but also leaves your skin feeling extra hydrated and firm!

After all the treatments were done, the doctor applied a layer of recovery cream and sunscreen.

Thanks to Tune Liner, I could immediately see a more defined jawline right after the treatment!

Abijou Clinic had a very clean environment, and the staff were incredibly professional. Since I booked through Creatrip, they even gave me a set of dermatologist-approved skincare products that they use and sell at the clinic as a gift after the treatment!

If you’re interested in the skincare products used at Abijou Clinic, you can easily purchase them on-site!

I received authenticity certificates for all the lifting devices used during my treatment. It made me feel reassured, and I’m incredibly satisfied with how everything turned out! 

After the treatments, I couldn’t miss the drink made by their robot barista! It’s such a fun and unique feature that you don’t often see at other clinics, and it’s definitely one of the reasons I keep coming back to Abijou Clinic.

Here's a comparison of my face before the treatment and on the third day after the procedure. My V-line already looks so much better, don't you think? The doctor mentioned that the effects of Ulthera will continue to improve over the next 1–2 weeks. I can’t wait to see how much more it improves over the next couple of weeks! 

How to Save Big on Expensive Skin Treatments

Thinking about getting an anti-aging treatment but worried about the cost? Why not try the beauty package from Creatrip and Abijou Clinic, just like I did? You can get the most popular beauty procedures done for as low as $400 USD!

If you get the K-Beauty Package you can also receive a free welcome kit that helps with skin regeneration, so if you're considering anti-aging treatment, book now on Creatrip!

How to Maximize the Effects After the Procedure

Source: Jangup (Korea Cosmetic Industry News)

Even after lifting treatments, you can maintain the results longer with simple daily care! Starting 1–2 weeks after your treatment, incorporating beauty devices or taking health supplements can help slow aging. Regular massages can also reduce swelling and boost circulation, which goes a long way keeping your skin youthful!

If you're concerned about different skin problems, check out our other blogs in the link below!

Active Acne Treatments

Blemish, Hyperpigmentation & Dark Spot Treatments

We hope this helps you have a better idea of what treatments to get when in Korea! If you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment below or send us an email at help@creatrip.com. You can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook to stay updated on all things Korea!