Sofwave vs XERF: How Ultrasound and Radiofrequency Skin Tightening Compare
Sofwave and XERF both tighten loose skin without needles or surgery, but they use different energy and reach different depths. Sofwave uses focused ultrasound at one depth. XERF uses radiofrequency at two frequencies, so it treats two layers of tissue in the same pass.
If you’ve started noticing a softer jawline, loose skin under the chin or crepey neck skin, you’ve probably come across both names. This guide explains how each one works, where they differ, and how to decide which is right for you.
At LA ViE MD, we offer XERF at all four of our Bay Area locations. We’ll be upfront about that, and we’ll stick to published specifications when we compare the two.
How Sofwave works
Sofwave is a focused ultrasound treatment that heats one layer of skin, about 1.5 mm below the surface. Its SUPERB™ (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam) technology uses seven cooled transducers that create small zones of heat in the mid-dermis (Sofwave Medical).
That heat prompts the skin to build new collagen and elastin, which can lift and firm it over the following months. A typical session takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
According to the manufacturer, Sofwave is FDA-cleared to (Sofwave safety information):
- improve facial lines and wrinkles
- lift the eyebrow
- lift lax skin under the chin and on the neck
- improve the look of acne scars and, short term, cellulite
- improve the look of loose skin on the upper arms
Most people need one or two sessions, spaced six to eight weeks apart (AestheticMedGuide).
How XERF works
XERF is a monopolar radiofrequency (RF) treatment from Cynosure Lutronic that heats two layers of tissue at once. It received FDA clearance in August 2025 for skin tightening on the face and neck (MedEsthetics).
XERF runs two frequencies in the same pass:
- 6.78 MHz warms the upper dermis, for surface firmness.
- 2 MHz reaches deeper, into the fibrous tissue that holds skin in place.
Built-in cryogen cooling protects the skin surface, and the device adjusts energy in real time as it moves. Most patients describe deep warmth rather than pain, and numbing cream is usually not needed.
RF energy isn’t drawn to pigment the way some lasers are, so XERF is designed for all skin types. A session usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area.
Sofwave vs XERF at a glance
The biggest difference is depth: Sofwave heats one layer of the dermis, while XERF heats the dermis and the deeper support tissue in one pass.
| Sofwave | XERF | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | Focused ultrasound (SUPERB™ parallel beams) | Monopolar radiofrequency, 6.78 MHz + 2 MHz |
| Depth | One depth, about 1.5 mm (mid-dermis) | Two depths: upper dermis and deeper fibrous tissue |
| Skin cooling | Cooled transducers | Integrated cryogen cooling, real-time energy control |
| FDA-cleared uses | Lines and wrinkles, brow lift, chin and neck lift, acne scars, short-term cellulite, upper-arm laxity | Skin tightening on the face and neck (Aug 2025) |
| Session time | About 30–45 minutes | About 30–60 minutes |
| Typical plan | 1–2 sessions, 6–8 weeks apart | 1 session or a short series, per provider |
| Needles or incisions | None | None |
| Downtime | Minimal; temporary redness | Minimal to none; temporary redness or warmth |
| Skin types | Discuss with your provider | Designed for all skin types |
Sources: Sofwave safety information, Sofwave Medical, MedEsthetics on XERF. Independent head-to-head studies of the two devices aren’t available yet.
Which one is right for you?
Both suit people with mild to moderate laxity who want gradual, natural-looking results without surgery. The right choice depends on what you want to treat.
Sofwave may suit you if you mainly want to soften fine lines, lift the brows, or treat acne scars or upper arms. Those uses are on its FDA clearance list; XERF’s are not.
XERF may suit you if your main concern is loosening along the jawline, under the chin or on the neck. Because it treats two depths at once, it addresses both surface firmness and the deeper tissue that supports the skin.
Neither is the right tool if you have significant sagging. A good provider will tell you when a surgical consult would serve you better.
Comfort
Both treatments create heat under the skin, so you’ll feel warmth during the session. XERF’s built-in cooling means most patients don’t need numbing cream.
Downtime
Neither needs recovery time. You may look a little flushed for a few hours, and most people go straight back to work or the gym.
When you’ll see results
Results from both build gradually as new collagen forms:
- Same day: some patients notice mild firmness.
- Weeks 2–6: collagen remodeling begins and skin starts to feel tighter.
- Months 2–4: the most visible change, especially along the jaw and neck.
- Later: skin keeps aging, so a maintenance visit may help sustain results.
Cost
Prices for both depend on the areas treated and the number of sessions. National guides put a full-face Sofwave session at roughly $1,500–$3,000 (AestheticMedGuide). XERF is quoted the same way: by area and plan, at your consultation.
Who should wait
RF and ultrasound treatments may not be suitable during pregnancy, with a pacemaker or metal implant in the area, or with an active skin infection. Sofwave also lists recent isotretinoin use and fillers in the area as contraindications. Your provider will review your health history first.
Where to get XERF in the Bay Area
LA ViE MD offers XERF at four Bay Area offices. Each city page explains how XERF compares with Sofwave and shows that office’s hours.
| Location | Address | Phone | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Danville | 645 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Danville, CA 94526 | (925) 984-2178 | Sofwave Danville vs XERF |
| Dublin | 4620-B Tassajara Rd, Dublin, CA 94568 | (844) 841-2179 | Sofwave Dublin vs XERF |
| Livermore | 1990 Arroyo Road, Livermore, CA 94550 | (833) 528-4310 | Sofwave Livermore vs XERF |
| Los Gatos | 652 North Santa Cruz Ave, Ste A, Los Gatos, CA 95030 | (408) 356-7050 | Sofwave Los Gatos vs XERF |
Book a XERF consultation at the office nearest you.
Sofwave vs XERF: frequently asked questions
Is XERF a laser?
No. XERF uses radiofrequency energy, not light. That’s why it isn’t drawn to pigment and is designed for all skin types.
Which goes deeper, Sofwave or XERF?
Sofwave focuses ultrasound at about 1.5 mm, in the mid-dermis. XERF’s 2 MHz frequency reaches deeper, into the fibrous tissue below the dermis, while its 6.78 MHz frequency treats the upper layers.
Is one better than the other?
They’re different tools. Sofwave has more FDA-cleared uses, including brow lift and acne scars. XERF treats two depths in one pass for the face and neck. Your provider should match the device to your goals.
Does either one hurt?
Both create deep warmth. Most XERF patients don’t need numbing cream because of its built-in cooling.
How long do results last?
Results from both build over months as new collagen forms. Skin keeps aging, so many people plan occasional maintenance visits.
Can I combine XERF with other treatments?
Often, yes. Many patients pair it with a skin treatment for tone or texture. Your provider will suggest the order and spacing.
Individual results vary and are not guaranteed. This article is general information, not medical advice; candidacy must be confirmed in a consultation with a licensed provider. Sofwave and SUPERB are trademarks of Sofwave Medical Ltd. LA ViE MD is not affiliated with or endorsed by Sofwave Medical. XERF is a trademark of its respective owner.
