XERF(XERF)|Frequency sagging treatment with less pain

How is XERF different from other sagging treatments?"

I'm getting concerned about sagging facial lines, but I'm afraid of having a scalpel inserted..."

I had had a hypo but the pain was too much and I couldn't continue.

I want to improve my laugh lines and marionette lines, but I can't afford the downtime."

Do you have these questions or concerns about sagging treatment?

Hello. This is Smart Skin Clinic, a cosmetic dermatology practice.

In this article, we will explain in detail, based on medical evidence, the mechanism of the high-frequency treatment machine called "XERF," which is attracting attention for sagging treatment, the effects that can be expected, differences from other treatments, the procedure flow, and even downtime.

※If you have specific topics you'd like to learn about, you can jump directly to them by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents below.

Supervisor Information

Chief Director of Smart Skin Clinic Group

stoneheterotopia KoutaHeian era court lady's song (accompanying men's oouta)

career

Graduated from Juntendo University School of Medicine

Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital and related facilities

Worked at a major beauty clinic in Tokyo

Affiliation / Qualifications

Japan Surgical Society Specialist

Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine

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What is XERF?

XERF was developed by LUTRONIC in Korea.Monopolar RF (monopolar radiofrequency) treatment machineIt is.

It is certified by the MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety of Korea), the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare, in 2024.

The most important feature of Zarf is,Heat energy can be delivered "three-dimensionally" from the dermis layer to the subcutaneous fat layer.Point.

By this,Simultaneous resolution of multiple skin problems such as double chin, sagging facial lines, improvement of laugh lines and marionette lines, skin elasticity and luster, and tightening of pores.The company expects to be able to

Who is recommended to use Xerf (XERF)?

  • Those who want to treat both sagging and skin texture without cutting.
  • Those who are not comfortable with pain
  • Those who have difficulty taking downtime
  • Those in their 30s to 50s who are beginning to worry about sagging.
  • Those who wish to avoid the risk of cheek moss.
  • Those who are concerned about fat on the face line, the poncho next to the mouth and the double chin.
  • Those seeking natural rejuvenation.

Three characteristics of XERF (XERF)

  1. Monopolar RF (monopolar radiofrequency)
  2. 6.78 MHz + 2 MHz dual frequency.
  3. Three irradiation modes according to depth

Monopolar RF (monopolar radiofrequency) and the mechanism of sagging improvement

Radiofrequency (RF) generates heat by vibrating water molecules in skin tissue.
The mechanism of thermal sagging improvement is as follows

  • Immediate effects: Heat causes collagen fibers to contract, and a skin tightening effect can be felt immediately after the treatment. This is based on the property of proteins to denature with heat (the same principle as the shrinking of barbecued meat).
  • Long-term effects: As a wound healing response to thermal stimulation, fibroblasts are activated and new collagen and elastin are produced. This effect peaks one to three months after the treatment, resulting in sustained improvement in skin firmness and elasticity.

There are different types of RF therapy such as "monopolar," "bipolar," and "multipolar" depending on the number of electrodes, but ZAF uses "monopolar RF.

Monopolar RF is a method in which radiofrequency waves flow between "an electrode applied to the treatment area" and "an electrode (counter electrode plate) worn on the body" to form a closed circuit in the body and heat the target area.Suitable for mild to moderate sagging because energy is delivered over a wide area.

[Types and characteristics of RF

RF typeMonopolar RFBipolar RFMultipolar RFMicroneedle RF
Frequency6.78M㎐/2M㎐1 MHz1 MHz2 MHz
AdvantagesHeat penetrates deeply over a wide area.Treatment depth can be specifiedEnergy converges at the centerTreatment depth can be specified
DemeritTreatment depth cannot be specifiedTreatment depth is shallowTreatment depth cannot be specifiedDowntime due to injury occurs
EffectTightening
Promotes skin regeneration
Contour correctionContour correctionPromotes skin regeneration

The world's first "dual frequency" of 6.78MHz + 2MHz!

The second feature of Zarf is,Two different frequencies, "6.78 MHz" and "2 MHz," can be irradiated simultaneously.It is the world's first technology.

Conventional RF treatment machines (e.g., Thermacool and Volnuma) are generally irradiated at 6.78 MHz alone.

Why combine the two frequencies? The answer lies in "depth control.

Relation between frequency and depth

  • 6.78MHz: Efficiently acts on dermal layer to shallow fat layer
  • 2MHz: Reaches deeper and deeper fat layers

this (something or someone close to the speaker (including the speaker), or ideas expressed by the speaker)By combining the two, heat energy is delivered "three-dimensionally" from shallow to deep layers.The following is a list of the most common types of products that can be used in the market.

This makes it difficult for conventional RF therapy toSimultaneous treatment of "deep sagging" and "skin texture improvement" is now possible.The first is the

In addition, a study comparing two types of radiofrequency (=zarf) in pigs, 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz, reported that 2 MHz tended to warm deeper, 6.78 MHz tended to work along skin fibers, and that when both were combined, changes in components such as collagen fibers that support skin firmness were more clearly seen and no fat cell damage was observed. The study reported that when both were combined, changes in components such as collagen fibers that support skin elasticity were more clearly seen, and no cellular damage to fat was observed. (Pre-clinical study)

Ko, K., Ryu, H. G., Park, J., Kim, W., Kim, S., Ko, J., & Cho, S. B. (2025). Computational modeling and histologic analysis of 6.78- and 2-MHz monopolar radiofrequency-induced thermal reactions. Lasers in Medical Science, 40 (1), 501. doi:10.1007/s10103-025-04746-8

3) Three irradiation modes and "3-layer" concept

The third feature of Zarf is,Three different irradiation modes can be used depending on skin depthPoint.
By this,Customized irradiation" is possible according to each individual's bone structure, fat distribution, and type of sagging.will be.

mode (musical mode, mode of probability distribution, state of physical system) deepMiddleShallow.
Frequency6.78MHz
+
2MHz (dual frequency) 
6.78MHz  6.78MHz
targetdeep fatty layer  Deep dermis to shallow fat layer  superficial dermal layer
EffectFat cell volume reduction
Lifting effect from deep layers
Collagen in the dermis layer
Promotes elastin remodeling
Natural lifting effect
Immediate skin texture improvement
adaptationdouble chin
Deep sagging of the face line
Levity next to the mouth
laugh lines
marionette line
Golgolines
Mild to moderate sagging
fine wrinkles
Lack of skin elasticity and luster
Pore opening
red faced

What can I expect from XERF (Xerf)?

ZAF provides diverse cosmetic effects by utilizing the characteristics of monopolar RF and three irradiation modes.

[Expected effects

  • Face line tightening, small face effect, V-line formation
  • Fat reduction of leanness and double chin next to the mouth
  • Improvement of laugh lines, marionette lines, and gorgon lines
  • Improvement of skin elasticity, luster, and texture
  • Long-term rejuvenation effect by promoting collagen and elastin production
  • Tightening of pores and improvement of red face

Face line tightening, small face effect, V-line formation

Loose facial lines give the appearance of age and make the face appear larger.

The three-dimensional approach to the deep fat layer by the deep mode is expected to tighten blurred facial lines caused by aging, form a V-line, and produce a small face.

You will easily notice the change to sharper contours immediately after the treatment.

Fat reduction of leanness and double chin next to the mouth

A "poncho next to the mouth" or "double chin" is primarily caused by fat accumulation. In particular, people in their late 30s and onward have a lower metabolism and are more likely to accumulate fat under the chin.

By delivering heat intensively to the deep fat layer in Deep mode, mild to moderate problems under the chin and next to the mouth can be improved without the use of a scalpel.

Improvement of laugh lines, marionette lines, and gorgon lines

Lines, marionette lines, and laugh lines are areas prone to sagging. Not only the dermis, but also the subcutaneous tissue, and even the ligaments that connect the skin and subcutaneous tissue are affected.

Thermal stimulation of the deep dermis layer promotes collagen reconstruction over the medium to long term. Improvement of skin elasticity, wrinkles and sagging skin can be expected.

Improvement of skin elasticity, luster, and texture|Beautiful skin effect (Shallow mode)

What makes ZAF different from other radiofrequency treatments?Skin texture improvement can be expected at the same time as sagging treatment.This is to say.

Collagen production in the shallow dermis layer is promoted, turnover is stimulated, and circulation is improved, leading to improved skin elasticity, luster, and texture.

Immediately after the treatment, the skin often feels "taut" and "makeup looks better.

Long-term rejuvenation effect by promoting collagen and elastin production

The main attraction of Zarf is,Not only "immediate effects immediately after the treatment," but also "medium- to long-term effects due to collagen regeneration after 1 to 3 months" can be obtained.Point.

Regular maintenance can compensate for age-related collagen loss and maintain youthful skin over the long term.

Tightening of pores and improvement of red face

RF therapy is,Tightens pores by increasing collagen around poresEffectiveness.

In addition, thermal stimulation can causeReddening of the red face due to constriction of dilated capillariesYou can also expect it.

Downtime, Side Effects, and Risks of XERF (XERF)

Zurf is a treatment with little or no downtime, but depending on the individual and the procedure, the following reactions may occur

[Approximate general downtime

  • Redness: a few hours to half a day after treatment
  • Hot flashes: several hours or so
  • Mild swelling: up to the next day (not bothersome for most people)

These are temporary reactions that subside spontaneously,Most people can return to normal life on the day of treatment..

Precautions after XERF treatment|What to watch out for in daily life

The way you spend your time after the procedure will affect how long the effect lasts and the risk of side effects.

Please note the following points

  • Facial cleansing and makeup: Can be done immediately after the treatment. Please do so gently to avoid friction.
  • Bathing, sauna, and strenuous exercise: On the day of the surgery, we recommend that you refrain from long baths, saunas, and strenuous exercise, and take showers only, as excessive blood circulation may cause prolonged redness.
  • Moisturizing and UV protection: After the treatment, the skin is easily heated and dry. Please ensure adequate moisturizing and UV protection with sunscreen.

How painful is XERF (Xerf)? Do I need anesthesia?

Some people may have the image that "sagging is bothersome, but RF treatment is painful.
Indeed, conventional thermacooling can be very painful.

However,Zarf pain is "the sensation of taking a warm shower."Most often expressed as,No anesthesia requiredIt is.

Wave Fit Pulse for pain relief

Zurf's patented "Wave Fit Pulse" technology significantly reduces painThe company is doing so.

Wave Fit Pulse is a technology that delivers energy as "waveform pulses" intermittently.
Specifically, by irradiating while switching between high and low power in detail,The three effects of "delivering heat firmly to the deep layers," "minimizing damage to the epidermis," and "reducing pain perception" are realized simultaneously.The company is doing so.

Powerful cooling system

In addition, ZAF handpieces includeEquipped with a powerful cooling systemThe company has been
Treatment,Irradiation while the skin surface is cooled, realizing "reduced risk of burns," "reduced pain," and "comfortable treatment experience.The company is doing so.

With the Wave Fit Pulse and cooling system, there is almost no "bone-chilling" or "intense pain" like with Hyf or Thermacool.

People who cannot receive XERF (XERF) and contraindications

  • Those with pacemakers or metal implants (as radiofrequency energy may affect the device)
  • Pregnant or lactating (because safety has not been established)
  • Keloid constitution, diabetes, etc. (if wound healing is problematic)
  • Those who have metal plates, silicon, gold threads, etc. implanted in the treatment area.
  • Those with severe inflammation or infection of the skin

When can I start to feel the effects of XERF? How long does it last?

immediate effectImmediately after treatment - 2 weeksBy immediate contraction of collagen fibers,
A tightening sensation can be felt immediately after the treatment.
mid- to long-term effects1-3 months laterBy collagen regeneration,
The effect peaks after 1-3 months.
Duration of effect6 months to 1 year
Interval between treatmentsOnce every 3 to 6 months

Zarf effects appear in two stages: "immediate" and "medium- to long-term" effects.

Although the effect can be felt even once, it can be maintained for a long period of time with regular maintenance.

Effects vary from person to person.

Differences between XERF, HIF, and other RF treatments

Which should I choose, Zurf or Hyf?" "What is the difference between this and Volnuma or Thermacool?" Many of you may have these questions.

Here is a detailed explanation of the differences between the major sagging treatments.

Name of equipmentXERF (Xerf)HIFUThermacoolvolnemapotenza
Energy / TypeMonopolar RF (6.78MHz + 2MHz)ultrasonic wavesMonopolar RF (6.78MHz)Monopolar RF (6.78MHz)Needle RF
targetDermal to subcutaneous fat (in Japanese history)(Heating at the surface)SMAS fascia (heating at points)Dermis to subcutaneous tissueDermis to shallow fat layer corium
Main effectstightening
fat reduction
Improvement of skin quality
lift up
tightening
tighteningtightening
Skin elasticity
Acne scars, pores, skin texture improvement
Improvement of sagging and fine lines
Painfewmake one's heart flutterStrongfewContinuous needle pain
Tingling electric current stimulation
Down timealmost neverfew days
Redness
Swelling
Pain like muscle ache
almost neveralmost neverA few days to a week
Redness
Swelling
Intravascular hemorrhage

Difference from HIFU *Not handled by this hospital.

ZAF is recommended for those who have a lot of fat and want to improve skin texture as well, while HIF is recommended for those who want to lift from the fascia with a gusto.

  • Hyf: SMAS fascia is "point" burned and pulled up.Good at "lifting," but at risk of cheek moss.Yes.
  • Zarf: The fat layer to the dermis layer is tightened by "plane" burning.Tightening" and "fat reduction" are its strong points.and the risk of cheek moss is easy to adjust.

Thermacool Volnumadifference between "A" and "B

Volnuma is also a very good instrument, though,Zurf has a "2 MHz" wavelength, so it approaches a deeper layer (subcutaneous fat layer)is possible.

ZAF meets the need for "a little deeper fat tightening" while maintaining the "painless RF" advantage.

  • Thermacool: I am a pioneer in RF sagging treatment,Painful and expensiveIt is.
  • Volnuma: It is a good and painless device, though,Single frequencyIt is.
  • Zarf: Like a volnuma.In addition to less pain, dual frequencies can reach deeper fat layers.This is one of its strengths. It is positioned as a kind of "painless thermacooling.
History of RF Therapy

A little history of RF (radiofrequency) therapy here will help you understand the difference.

  1. Thermacool (royal but painful)
    For a long time, the gold standard for RF treatment was Thermacool, which uses a frequency of 6.78 MHz for powerful tightening, but it was painful and expensive.
  2. Volnuma (painless RF dissemination)
    After the patent for Thermacool expired, devices such as "Volnuma" were introduced. While using the same "6.78 MHz" as Thermacool, the cooling performance has been improved so that patients can receive the treatment comfortably and with less pain.
  3. 3rd generation: ZAF (evolution to dual frequency)
    And the latest Zarf does more than simply reduce pain,Add "2 MHz" to 6.78 MHzThe company's innovation was the first of its kind in the world.

For more information about Bornuma, see also the following article.

(3) Difference from Potenza (Needle RF) *Not handled at our hospital

  • I want to heal acne scars and uneven skin, I can take downtime →. potenza
  • I want to do something about sagging/fat on the entire face, I can't take downtime →. ZAF

Potenza is well known as "Microneedle RF," in which ultra-fine needles, like a kenzan, are inserted into the skin and RF is applied through the tips of the needles.

The frequencies used are 1 to 2 MHz, but the approach is decidedly different from that of ZAF.

  • Potenza (with needle): Heat is applied through physical needle puncture. This is the most powerful treatment for treating "uneven skin surfaces" such as acne scar craters and deep pore openings, but it is accompanied by downtime such as internal bleeding and redness.
  • Zarf (no needle): Delivers heat deeply into the skin using 2 MHz, which has a long wavelength, without needles. Since the skin surface is not damaged, the fat layer can be tightened with "no downtime.

Smart Skin Clinic Fees

300 shots59,800 yen54,800 yen (per 100 shots)
(¥18,266)
400 shots74,800 yen69,800 yen (17,450 yen per 100 shots)
600 shots104,800 yen99,800 yen (16,633 yen per 100 shots)

FAQ

Do I have to worry about XERF rubbing my cheeks?

The appropriate irradiation design minimizes the risk of cheek bumps: XERF does not burn fat in a single point like HIFU, but the deep mode applies heat to the fat layer. For patients with chapped cheeks, the risk of chapping can be avoided by using "customized irradiation" to avoid areas under the cheekbones, which are prone to chapping, or by adjusting the mode of irradiation.

Does XERF work after just one session? What is the ideal number of treatments?

Although some people experience changes even once, new aging changes cannot be stopped, so regular maintenance once every 3-6 months is recommended to maintain the effect. There are individual differences.

Is there any pain during the XERF procedure? Do I need anesthesia?

The "Wave Fit Pulse" technology greatly reduces pain. It is as warm as taking a hot shower, and most patients can receive it without anesthesia.

Can I wear makeup immediately after XERF treatment?

Yes, makeup can be applied immediately after the procedure.

Flow of treatment

STEP
Reservation

You can easily make reservations with your mobile phone.

STEP
Reception (desk)

This is a "smart" and easy receptionist service that can be completed immediately by the clinic's IT system by simply providing your name.

STEP
Counseling and medical examination

Please feel free to discuss any concerns you may have during the counseling session. Please be assured that there is no pushy sales.

STEP
XERF

After attaching the electrode pads, gel is applied to the treatment area, and irradiation is performed while communicating with you. The output is adjusted according to your skin condition and pain tolerance. During irradiation, you should feel a gentle warmth; there is almost no significant pain.

STEP
After-sales service

We will explain in detail about the care of the treated area and precautions for daily life. We also suggest appropriate home care from the viewpoint of prevention and maintenance, such as oral medicines and skin care cosmetics that can be expected to improve your problems.

STEP
Returning home

More Information

Treatment Time15-30 minutes (not including counseling)
Recommended number and frequency of treatmentsWe recommend an interval of 3 to 6 months.
Down timeAlmost none, mild redness and swelling
Treatment on the day of counselingPossible
MakeAvailable immediately after
Skin carePossible immediately after the treatment
ShowerPossible from the same day; bathing is possible from the next day (avoid long baths on the same day).
PainSensation of taking a warm shower

*There are individual differences.

[Legal description

ZAF treatment includes the use of drugs or medical devices that are not approved in Japan. The drugs and devices used in the treatment have been imported on a private import basis based on the judgment of our physicians.

Please refer to this page for information on medicines, etc. that should be noted for personal importation.
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, "Medicines, etc. that Require Caution in Personal Importation".

Smart Skin Clinic for XERF (Xerf) Treatment

XERF is the perfect sagging treatment for today's lifestyle, with an excellent balance of "pain," "downtime," and "effectiveness.

I want to relax and not have to endure pain," "I want to have the fat on the sides of my mouth and under my chin trimmed," and "I want my skin to be firm and radiant.

If you think this is the case, please visit us for a free counseling session.

We will propose the best treatment for each patient's individual facial features.

Reference

XERF

LUTRONIC, Inc.

Ko, K., Ryu, H. G., Park, J., Kim, W., Kim, S., Ko, J., & Cho, S. B. (2025). Computational modeling and histologic analysis of 6.78- and 2-MHz monopolar radiofrequency-induced thermal reactions. Lasers in Medical Science, 40 (1), 501. doi:10.1007/s10103-025-04746-8

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About the physician supervision of this site

This site is operated under the supervision of a physician supervised by Smart Skin Clinic.

This page was revised and enacted in June 2018. Medical Advertising Guidelines We produce and provide information based on

  • Scope of supervision: treatment description, risks and side effects, price labeling
  • Last supervision date: June 26, 2025
*Treatment effects may vary from person to person. Please be sure to consult your physician regarding side effects and risks.
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