XERF Skin Tightening: What It Is and Alternatives

At Cutis Clinic, we continually review and refine our technologies. While XERF was previously used for skin tightening, we now focus on other devices such as Ultraformer MPT and Potenza RF, which offer precision, versatility, and customisation.

Our team employs many different methods to tighten skin, including-

• Collagen stimulating hydrating treatments 
• Ultherapy HIFU
• RF microneedling devices such as Infini & Genius RF
• Laser resurfacing with CO2 & hybrid lasers
• Deep chemical peels including Jessner TCA & Phenol

The ideal treatment depends on your age, ethnicity, dermal thickness, skin quality & many other factors. If you are unsure, book a consultation with our clinical team.

XERF and HIFU both target deeper tissues, but they work in very different ways.

HIFU uses focused ultrasound to create small points of heat at specific depths, while XERF uses monopolar radiofrequency to heat a broader area more evenly. XERF also includes continuous cooling, which makes the treatment more comfortable for most patients.

In short:

• XERF = broader, even heating with cooling for comfort
• HIFU = pinpoint ultrasound heating, often sharper in sensation
• Both aim to improve firmness, but XERF is typically described as gentler and more comfortable, while HIFU can feel more intense.

Your practitioner will recommend which option suits your level of laxity, skin type, and treatment goals.

Learn more about HIFU

XERF works very differently from resurfacing lasers like CO₂, Fraxel, or Erbium. Lasers target the surface of the skin to improve texture, pigmentation, and scarring by creating controlled micro-injuries. XERF, on the other hand, uses radiofrequency to heat deeper layers without affecting the surface, making it ideal for addressing laxity and firmness rather than tone or texture.

In short:

• XERF = deeper tightening (collagen remodelling, firmness, definition)
• Lasers = surface renewal (texture, pores, pigmentation, lines)

They treat completely different layers, and many patients in Brisbane will benefit from both, spaced safely, as part of a layered rejuvenation plan.

Learn more 

XERF can be used on multiple areas where mild to moderate laxity is common. Treatment zones include:

• Face: cheeks, jawline, jowls, smile-line area
  
• Neck: submental region and neck crepiness

Suitability depends on skin thickness, elasticity, and your overall goals. Your practitioner will recommend the safest and most effective areas to treat during your consultation.

Targeting collagen is essential because it’s the structural protein that gives skin its firmness, strength, and elasticity.

As we age, collagen naturally breaks down and production slows, leading to laxity, softening of facial contours, and fine lines. Treatments like XERF apply controlled heat to the deeper layers where collagen lives, triggering a repair response. This encourages new, stronger collagen, which helps improve firmness, support the skin’s structure, and create a tighter, more lifted appearance over time.

Good candidates for XERF are people who:

• Have mild to moderate skin laxity on the face, jawline, neck, or body
• Want a non-invasive tightening option without needles, surgery, or downtime
• Prefer a gradual, natural-looking improvement rather than dramatic surgical change
• Have generally healthy skin without active infections, dermatitis, or open wounds
• Understand that results build gradually as collagen remodels

A consultation is needed to confirm suitability and tailor the treatment plan.

XERF uses monopolar radiofrequency energy to gently heat the deeper layers of the skin while protecting the surface with continuous cooling. This controlled thermal effect supports collagen contraction and long-term remodelling, which may improve firmness and definition in treated areas. Energy depth and intensity can be adjusted based on skin characteristics and treatment goals.

Your practitioner will personalise the approach for safe, effective outcomes. Start your skin tightening journey today, book a consultation.

Collagen contraction begins within the first week, though early changes are subtle. More noticeable improvements typically appear around the 3 month mark as collagen stimulation progresses, leading to gradually firmer skin and reduced laxity in the treated areas.

Some patients benefit from one session, while others may require a short series spaced several weeks apart. The number of sessions varies depending on individual skin quality, the degree of laxity, and the specific treatment area.

Our specialist team at Cutis are selective on who we recommend for this treatment. Patient selection is critical for good results. Book a consultation with our clinical team to see if XERF skin tightening is right for you. 

*T&C applies

Yes. Because XERF is not a laser, it’s colorblind and safe for all skin types. In fact, darker skin tones often respond very well to radiofrequency treatments because they typically have:

• Thicker collagen
• Less sun-related collagen damage
• A stronger, more resilient collagen network

These factors can support a more noticeable tightening response, though results vary from person to person.

The longevity of your results will vary depending on how much collagen your body produces, as well as your age, ethnicity, diet & most importantly, genetics. 

Most of our patients still see noticeable results two years after their initial procedure and continue to undergo follow-up treatments to maintain their appearance. 

Dermatologists use microneedling for conditions like hair loss & dermal delivery of drugs. In the context of skin rejuvenation, there are far better treatments. Microneedling targets superficial concerns, XERF and HIFU spares the upper layers of skin to treat deeply. 

Our team performs the following combinations, here is the logic. 

XERF + laser resurfacing. The former addresses deep to contract, the latter addresses superficial skin quality issues. 

XERF + hydrating treatments. HIFU tightens, hydrators address volume loss.

XERF + Deep peels. The former tighten & contracts, the latter addresses skin quality issues & contracts. Again, synergistic treatments. 

Your practitioner will review your history, current treatments, and goals to ensure safe sequencing and avoid overlapping recovery periods.

Most people find XERF very tolerable.
You’ll feel bursts of warmth as the radiofrequency heats the deeper layers, but the built-in cooling keeps the surface comfortable. Sensation varies by area, but treatments are generally well-tolerated without numbing. Your practitioner can adjust the settings at any time to keep you comfortable throughout the session.

All energy-based treatments carry some risk, though side effects with XERF are typically mild. Temporary redness, swelling, or warmth may occur. Rarely, changes in skin sensation or uneven heating can occur. Your practitioner will assess your skin, review contraindications, and customise settings to minimise risk. Following aftercare instructions is important for a safe outcome.

XERF is not designed to remove fat, and volume loss is not expected.

Because it uses controlled radiofrequency to heat the deeper layers of the skin not fatit focuses on collagen remodelling rather than fat reduction. Most patients maintain their natural volume, with the main changes being improved firmness and reduced laxity. Your practitioner will assess your skin and treatment area to ensure the settings are appropriate for your goals.

No, energy devices cannot melt hydrating treatments. The reason is that hydrators are stable at temperatures well above 100 degrees. This is part of the sterilisation process. All energy devices have dermal heating capped at below 70 degrees (different from epidermal heating). This includes HIFU, Ultraformer and XERF.

Before getting XERF, consider the following:

• Your skin should be healthy, with no active infections or dermatitis

• XERF is ideal for mild–moderate laxity, not a replacement for surgical lifting

• Results build gradually over several months

• You’ll need to avoid heat, saunas, and vigorous exercise for 24 hours afterward

• Your medical history and skin type will determine suitability

• A consultation helps tailor the treatment to your goals