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How are Ultherapy and Thermage different, and does aftercare differ?

Ultherapy uses micro-focused ultrasound to heat deep layers, including the SMAS, while Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency to heat the dermis and tighten the skin's surface. Both work by triggering a collagen-building response, and neither breaks the skin. That is why aftercare for both is similar and fairly simple. Learn more on our Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX pages.

The main difference you may notice is where you feel tenderness: Ultherapy is more likely to leave the jawline or under-chin area tender for a few days, while Thermage may leave the skin feeling warm and mildly flushed.

What to expect right after treatment

Redness: common, usually fading within a few hours.
Mild swelling: can last one to several days, especially under the eyes or chin.
Tenderness: a bruised feeling when touching the jaw or when chewing, often for a few days.
Tingling or numbness: occasional, usually resolving within days to a few weeks.
Small welts or bruises: uncommon and temporary.

Day-by-day aftercare

Day 0: The day of treatment

Cleanse gently with lukewarm water; avoid scrubbing.
Apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer.
Use sunscreen if you go outside; a hat helps too.
Skip saunas, steam rooms, hot baths and hot yoga.
Keep alcohol light, which may reduce swelling.
Light makeup is usually fine once redness settles, but some people prefer to wait until the next morning.

Days 1–2

Resume normal light activity; walking around Hongdae is fine.
Delay intense workouts until about 24–48 hours have passed. See exercise after Ultherapy.
Continue gentle skincare; hydration helps comfort.
Sleep with your head slightly elevated if you notice swelling.

Days 3–7

Reintroduce retinoids, vitamin C and exfoliating acids gradually once the skin feels normal.
Book facial massage or other treatments only after checking with the clinic.
Tenderness, if any, typically eases during this period.

Weeks 2–12

This is when collagen remodeling happens. You do not need special care, but consistent sun protection, good sleep and hydration support the result. Many patients notice gradual firming between two and three months, with continued improvement up to around six months. Results vary by individual.

What to avoid after Ultherapy and Thermage

Heat: saunas, jjimjilbang, hot springs and very hot showers for about 24–48 hours.
Harsh skincare: peels, scrubs, strong acids and retinoids for a few days.
Aggressive massage: deep facial massage, gua sha and face rollers for about a week.
Other heat treatments: do not stack additional energy treatments without the doctor's plan.
Excess sun: treated skin can be more sensitive; avoid long sun exposure without protection.

Can I fly after Ultherapy or Thermage?

For most people, flying the same day or the next day is fine, because the skin is intact. Cabin air is dry, so moisturize well and drink water. Mild swelling may be slightly more noticeable after a long flight. For details, read can I fly the day after Ultherapy?

Tips specific to Seoul's climate

Seoul's seasons affect recovery. In the humid summer, sweat and heat can prolong redness, so stay in shade or air-conditioned spaces where possible and cleanse after long walks. In winter, cold, dry air and indoor heating can make treated skin feel tight, so a richer moisturizer and a humidifier in your room can help. In spring, fine dust and pollen are common, so cleanse gently each evening and keep sunscreen on during the day.

Do I need to change my diet or medications?

No special diet is required. Staying hydrated and limiting salty food and alcohol for a day or two may reduce swelling. Continue prescribed medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you need pain relief for tenderness, ask the clinic which option is appropriate for you.

Skincare that helps

A gentle, low-foaming cleanser
A barrier-supporting moisturizer with ingredients such as ceramides or panthenol
Broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or above
Hydrating sheet masks without strong fragrance, if your skin likes them

Korean pharmacies and beauty stores around Hongdae carry many calming, fragrance-free products. If unsure, ask the clinic for suggestions suited to your skin.

When should I contact the clinic?

Most effects are mild and temporary. Contact the clinic promptly if you notice:

Pain that increases instead of easing after a few days
Blistering, burns or skin that looks broken
Numbness or weakness affecting your smile that does not improve
Swelling that worsens after day three
Any symptom that worries you

If you have already left Seoul, contact the clinic through the channels on our Booking page and keep a record of your treatment details to share with a local doctor if needed.

How to protect your results long term

Ultherapy and Thermage do not stop aging, but you can help results last. Daily sunscreen, not smoking, stable weight, good sleep and consistent skincare all matter. Many patients repeat lifting roughly once a year and use skin boosters in between. Your doctor can suggest a maintenance plan at follow-up. For the address and opening hours of the Hongdae branch, see our Location & Hours page.

Can I wash my face after Ultherapy?

Yes. You can usually wash your face the same evening with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Pat dry rather than rubbing, and avoid scrubs, cleansing brushes and strong acids for a few days. Follow with a soothing moisturizer and, in the daytime, sunscreen.

Is it normal for my jaw to feel sore after Ultherapy?

Yes, tenderness along the jawline is a common temporary effect, because energy is delivered close to bone in that area. It often feels like a mild bruise when chewing or touching and usually eases within days. If pain increases or you notice weakness in your smile, contact the clinic.

Can I get Botox or filler after Thermage?

Many clinics combine them, but timing depends on the plan. Some injectables are done on the same day after the device treatment, while others are spaced apart. Do not schedule extra treatments elsewhere without telling your doctor, since sequence and spacing affect safety and results.

When can I go to a jjimjilbang after treatment?

A general guideline is to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before saunas, steam rooms or jjimjilbang after Ultherapy or Thermage, and longer if your skin is still red or swollen. Heat can prolong redness and swelling. Ask the doctor if you had other treatments at the same visit.