Everything you need to know about Houston's most advanced non-surgical skin tightening — how it works, what to expect, and how it compares.
XERF is the world's first multifrequency monopolar radiofrequency system — designed to remodel skin from the inside out. Developed by Cynosure Lutronic and FDA-cleared in August 2025, it combines two RF frequencies (6.78 MHz + 2 MHz) to deliver controlled thermal energy across shallow, middle, and deep tissue layers, including the SMAS — the same layer targeted during surgical facelifts.
The result: immediate collagen contraction with progressive remodeling over 3 to 6 months. Firmer, tighter, more youthful skin — no numbing, no needles, zero downtime.
6.78 MHz + 2 MHz target shallow, mid, and deep tissue simultaneously — something single-frequency systems cannot do.
Adjusts energy delivery 1,000 times per second based on real-time tissue impedance. Consistent heating, no hotspots.
Integrated cryogen cooling protects the skin surface while RF energy works deep. Comfortable with no numbing required.
Each session takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for the full face and neck. The cryo-cooled handpiece keeps things comfortable throughout — no numbing cream, no anesthesia needed. You may notice an immediate subtle tightening and glow. Return to all normal activities, including makeup, right after.
Subtle tightening and a visible glow. Mild warmth or redness may last a few hours.
Skin starts looking smoother and firmer as new collagen production kicks in.
New collagen and elastin fibers strengthen skin structure. Most dramatic improvement happens here.
Results last 12 to 18 months. Annual maintenance sessions recommended to sustain.
How does XERF skin tightening in Houston compare to other non-surgical options available at Houston-area med spas?
| Feature | XERF | Ultherapy | Thermage FLX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Dual-frequency monopolar RF | Focused ultrasound | Single-frequency monopolar RF |
| Depth | Shallow + mid + deep + SMAS | Single depth per pass | Mid-depth only |
| Comfort | Cryo-cooled, no numbing | Often painful, may need sedation | Moderate discomfort |
| Sessions | 2 sessions | 1 to 2 sessions | 1 session |
| Downtime | None | Swelling, bruising possible | Mild redness |
| Results | 12 to 18 months | 12 to 18 months | 12 to 24 months |
XERF is ideal for patients who want visible skin tightening without surgery, needles, or downtime. It works best for mild to moderate laxity on the face, neck, jawline, and under the chin.
Good candidates include anyone noticing early jowling, neck banding, crepey texture, or loss of jawline definition. It also pairs well with injectables and other PH Regenerative Systems protocols for a comprehensive plan.
No. The cryo-cooled handpiece keeps treatment comfortable. Most patients describe a warm, tolerable sensation — no numbing cream required.
XERF is a 2-session protocol. Annual maintenance sessions are recommended to sustain results long-term.
Some patients notice subtle tightening immediately. Peak results develop over 3 to 6 months as new collagen forms.
Yes. XERF pairs well with PRF microneedling, injectables, and other PH Regenerative Systems protocols.
Zero. Return to normal activities — including makeup — immediately after your session.
Most practices won’t publish a number, and there is a legitimate reason: XERF is priced by treatment area and by how many sessions your skin actually needs. A single lower-face treatment and a full face-and-neck protocol are not the same purchase.
What we can tell you plainly is how the pricing works, so you can compare offers around Houston without guessing:
XERF works on structure — the collagen scaffolding that holds skin lifted. That single fact determines who it helps and who it doesn’t.
In practice, the strongest results come from sequencing rather than choosing — structure first, surface second. That is the logic behind stacked treatment protocols.
XERF is now offered at a growing number of practices around greater Houston, including several outside the loop marketing to Houston patients. A few things separate how it is done here.
Schedule a consultation at PH Med in Houston Heights to find out if XERF skin tightening is right for you.
Book Your Consultation