High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive skin treatment that is used for skin tightening, rejuvenation, and lifting. This high-technology anti-aging and collagen-boosting skin treatment is really popular these days as it does not need any surgery and the post-surgery risks, but it is still effective without any downtime. However, it is important to know how effective HIFU treatment method for different skin types is. In this article, you will learn more information about HIFU skin rejuvenation and tightening effectiveness for all skin colours.
What is HIFU treatment?
HIFU is a skin treatment method that uses ultrasound energy to penetrate into the skin and stimulate natural collagen production. The result of HIFU treatment is generally a firmer, tighter, and youthful-looking skin. HIFU is mostly used for skin lifting, wrinkle reduction, and improving skin texture.
Key benefits of HIFU treatment
HIFU treatment is a common skincare procedure due to its considerable benefits. Here are some of the most important pros of this skincare method:
- Non-invasive: HIFU unlike some traditional skin lifting and rejuvenation is completely non-surgical. Therefore, there is no risk of injections or injuries. (Read more about differences between HIFU and traditional face lifting methods.)
- Minimal downtime: clients who undergo HIFU treatment can start their daily activities immediately after their treatment. However, it is always better to consult your cosmetologist about when to start your activities.
- Long-last results: The HIFU treatment results can last up to 12-18 months.
- Usable for different parts of the body: This treatment can be used for different parts of your body like the face, decolletage, and neck.
Understanding HIFU compatibility with different skin types
Different skin types have various reactions to skin treatments including HIFU. These reactions are the result of the differences that exist in skin types (based on the Fitzpatrick scale) like skin thickness, melanin content, and sensitivity level. Below you will find detailed information about how HIFU works on each skin type.
1. HIFU for very fair skin (Type I)
This skin type (Type I) includes individuals with very light and thin skin. People with very fair skin rarely tan, but often burn. HIFU works well on this skin type as the presence of melanin content is less. This would reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and increase the success chance of the treatment in skin tightening and rejuvenation. It is necessary to wear strong sunscreen regularly after the HIFU treatment to prevent UV damage to the newly treated skin.
💡Read more about HIFU risks and side effects.
2. HIFU therapy for fair skin (Type II)
The nest skin type is for individuals with very light skin that burns easily and tan minimally. Compared to type I, individuals with skin type II have more melanin content, but the risk of PIH is still low. Therefore, HIFU treatment is an effective solution for skin tightening, lifting, and wrinkle reduction. Using normal sunscreen after HIFU treatment is a necessity for individuals with skin type II to avoid sun damage.
3. HIFU treatment for medium skin (Type III)
People with medium skin type (type III) can tan and burn uniformly. The melanin level is balanced in the medium skin type which provides moderate protection against sun damage while it needs more careful HIFU treatment to avoid post-hyperpigmentation inflammation (PIH) in comparison to types I and II. HIFU treatment for skin type III can be effective in skin elasticity improvements and sagging and fine lines reduction. It is important to do pre-treatment tests to ensure what the right energy level is, so the risk of PIH will decrease. It is also recommended to have a skincare routine including hydration for skin healing.
4. HIFU for olive skin (Type IV)
Individuals with skin type IV have a brownish skin colour which tans and burns rarely. The melanin level in this skin type is high, so it is naturally sun damage protected. However, the risk of PIH is high if the HIFU treatment is not done properly. HIFU is effective for tightening, contouring, and lifting, specifically in the jawline and cheek areas. It is really important to visit a trusted skincare clinic and do HIFU treatment with the help of an experienced practitioner to prevent any possible skin hyperpigmentation that may be caused due to incorrect treatment. A suitable skincare center does patch tests and tests energy levels to reduce the risk of PIH to the minimum level.
5. HIFU effectiveness for dark skin (Type V)
People with dark brown skin are categorized in the skin type V. In this skin type, individuals can easily tan and burn and their skin has a high level of melanin which may make the HIFU treatment a little risky if it is not done properly. Although the risk of PIH is almost high for brown skin type, it can be highly effective for skin lifting and deeper wrinkles reduction if done in the right way. It is essential to have a skincare consultation before going for the HIFU treatment. The consultation would tell you what to do exactly before and after the treatment for better result, faster healing, and less risk.
6. HIFU treatment for deeply pigmented skin (Type VI)
Skin type VI is the skin with the highest level of melanin and sun protection while it is also prone to hyperpigmentation and scarring if the HIFU therapy is not done in the right way and based on the skin colour and condition. So, the HIFU treatment requires extra high caution to prevent any skin hyperpigmentation while providing skin firmness and reducing skin sagging, particularly around the neck and jawline. Based on the decision made by an experienced practitioner in treating dark skin tones, a lower energy level and spot testing can help do the treatment in the best way.
Essential precautions for HIFU across all skin types
There are precautions that by taking them, you can ensure that you will have an effective and safe HIFU treatment based on your skin type. Here are some recommendations to be considered before starting the therapy procedure:
- Consultation: It is of the highest priority to consult with a skincare professional to assess your skin type and condition and suggest the best skin treatment.
- Sun protection: Avoid sunlight by applying suitable sunscreen for your skin type before and after HIFU treatment.
- Hydration: It is essential to keep your skin and body hydrated to increase skin healing and collagen production.
- Follow-up: make regular appointments with your professional skin practitioner to monitor the HIFU’s effects process.
Who should avoid HIFU?
Although HIFU is generally safe as it is a non-invasive skincare method, there are still groups of people that should avoid doing HIFU therapy:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Individuals with active and severe skin acne, wounds, and skin infections.
- People with metal implants or pacemakers in the treatment areas.
Conclusion
HIFU treatment is an effective option for achieving youthful, wrinkle-free, and firm skin in different skin types. However, individual factors such as skin tone, sensitivity, and practitioner expertise play a significant role in the treatment results. By visiting a licensed and experienced practitioner in a safe skincare clinic and following pre- and after-treatment instructions, you can ensure to see the best results after HIFU therapy.