If you are looking into treatment options for changes in the face, you may be wondering whether EMFACE or wrinkle treatments may be more suitable. While both are used in cosmetic medicine, they work in different ways and are used for different types of facial changes, which is why it is helpful to understand how they compare before deciding what may be appropriate for you.
What Is EMFACE?
EMFACE is a facial treatment that uses synchronised radiofrequency and HIFES, which stands for high-intensity facial electrical stimulation. It works on the skin and facial muscles at the same time and is performed without needles. Treatment is usually done as a series of four sessions spaced seven to 10 days apart, with each session taking about 20 minutes.
The radiofrequency component targets the dermis (the thick, inner layer of skin), while the HIFES component stimulates key facial muscles. This approach may be considered for concerns such as facial lines, skin laxity, and changes in facial support. Areas that may be treated include the forehead and brow area, cheeks and mid-face, jawline and lower face, and the area under the chin.
What Are Wrinkle Treatments?
Wrinkle treatments are used to reduce the activity of selected facial muscles. They are commonly considered for movement-related lines, such as lines on the forehead and around the eyes. Rather than lifting the face, they work by limiting the muscle movement that contributes to these lines.
These treatments are temporary, with the effect generally lasting around three to four months. They are often considered when facial movement is the main reason lines have become more noticeable. Because they work differently from EMFACE, the treatment goal is also different.
How Do They Actually Work? Side-by-Side Comparison
| EMFACE | Wrinkle Treatments | |
| Mechanism | RF stimulates collagen; HIFES strengthens facial muscles | Temporarily reduces activity in targeted muscles |
| Effect on muscles | Increases muscle activity | Reduces muscle activity |
| Effect on skin | Firms and tightens via collagen stimulation | Reduces the appearance of wrinkles caused by muscle movement |
| Needles | No | Yes |
| Treatment time | ~20 minutes per session | ~ 5-15 minutes |
| Sessions required | 4 sessions, ~1 week apart | Usually one appointment |
| Onset of results | Gradual — develops over weeks | Visible within 1–2 weeks |
| Duration of results | Up to 12 months+ | 3–6 months |
| Downtime | Varies depending on the treatment plan | Varies depending on the treatment area, with minor redness at treatment sites possible |
EMFACE vs Wrinkle Treatments — Key Differences
One of the main differences is how the treatments work. EMFACE uses synchronised radiofrequency and HIFES to act on the skin and facial muscles at the same time, while wrinkle treatments are used to reduce the activity of selected facial muscles. This means the two options are not aimed at exactly the same concerns, even though both may be discussed when addressing changes in the facial areas.
There are also differences in treatment schedule, how long the effects may last, and cost. EMFACE is usually performed as a course of four sessions, while wrinkle treatments are temporary and generally last around three to four months. Cost can also vary depending on the body areas that need to be addressed and your treatment plan.
Can You Have EMFACE and Wrinkle Treatments Together?
In some cases, EMFACE and wrinkle treatments can both be used. Whether they are combined depends on your treatment history, the timing of previous treatments, and whether the combination is suitable for your situation. This is reviewed during consultation.
The reason they may be used together is that they work in different ways and are used for different concerns. Wrinkle treatments are often considered when movement-related lines are the main concern, while EMFACE may also be discussed where facial support or lifting is part of the concern. When both types of concern are present, a combined approach may sometimes be discussed.
Who Is EMFACE Best Suited For?
EMFACE may be considered for patients who are looking for a treatment option for early facial ageing changes and are interested in facial lifting or support without needles. Depending on suitability, areas that may be discussed include the forehead, under-eye area, mid-face, lower face, and under-chin area. It may also be considered by patients who prefer a treatment that does not involve wrinkle treatments.
EMFACE is not suitable for every patient, and this is assessed during consultation. Patients with pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, facial metalware, open wounds, active skin infections, or who are pregnant are generally not considered suitable, and some neurological or muscular conditions may also affect whether treatment can proceed. If movement-related lines are the main concern, wrinkle treatments may be discussed instead.
What to Expect from EMFACE at The DOC Clinic
At The DOC Clinic, all EMFACE consultations and treatments are performed personally by Dr Ed Omarjee. Consultations are used to assess your concerns, discuss other treatment options, explain possible risks and aftercare, and determine whether EMFACE is suitable for you.
Each EMFACE session takes about 20 minutes, with treatment usually planned as a course of four sessions spaced seven to 10 days apart. Changes may be noticed after two to three sessions, with further change developing in the weeks after the final treatment. Aftercare advice may include staying well hydrated, applying SPF 30+ daily, and avoiding direct sunlight for 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does EMFACE actually do to your face?
EMFACE uses synchronised radiofrequency and HIFES to work on the skin and facial muscles at the same time. It is used for concerns such as facial lines, skin laxity, and changes in facial support. Areas that may be discussed include the forehead, under-eye area, cheeks, lower face, and under-chin area.
How many EMFACE sessions do you need to see results?
EMFACE is usually performed as a course of four sessions spaced seven to 10 days apart. Some patients may notice changes after two to three sessions, with further change developing in the weeks after the final treatment. The full treatment plan is discussed during consultation.
Is EMFACE better than wrinkle treatments or facial volume treatments?
EMFACE is not necessarily better, because it works differently and is used for different concerns. Wrinkle treatments are often considered for movement-related lines, while facial volume treatments are used where volume loss is part of the concern, and EMFACE may be discussed where lifting or facial support is the main focus. The more suitable option depends on what is being treated.
How long does EMFACE last?
How long EMFACE lasts can vary from one patient to another. A course of treatment is usually followed by maintenance sessions over time, depending on the treatment plan and the concerns being addressed. This is discussed during consultation.
Are there any discomforts associated with the treatment?
The way EMFACE feels can vary from patient to patient. During treatment, you may notice warmth and muscle contractions in the treated area. What to expect is explained before treatment begins.
Who is a good candidate for EMFACE?
EMFACE may be considered for patients with early facial ageing changes who are looking for facial lifting or support without needles. It is not suitable for everyone, so medical history, treatment goals, and any contraindications need to be reviewed first. Suitability is assessed during consultation.
Book a Consultation
Book a consultation with Dr Ed Omarjee (FRACGP, CPCA Fellow, ACAM Fellow) to discuss whether EMFACE or wrinkle treatments may be more suitable for your goals.
