Skin Tightening

Morpheus8: The Budget Alternative to Thermage FLX?

Published 5 min read
Morpheus8: The Budget Alternative to Thermage FLX?
Contents
  1. How Morpheus8 Microneedling RF Works and Who It Is For
  2. 5 Key Features of Morpheus8 Microneedling RF
  3. Morpheus8 Microneedling RF vs. Thermage FLX
  4. Precautions for Morpheus8 Microneedling RF
  5. Contraindications for Morpheus8 Microneedling RF
  6. Morpheus8 Microneedling RF FAQ

Have you heard of Morpheus8 microneedling RF? Why is it called the budget Thermage FLX, and what features should you know about? This article explains how Morpheus8 microneedling RF works and who is a good candidate for the treatment, and summarizes its five key features, precautions, common Q&A, and a comparison table of Morpheus8 and Thermage FLX. Read on to learn more about Morpheus8 microneedling RF!

How Morpheus8 Microneedling RF Works and Who It Is For

How it works:

Morpheus8 is a microneedling radiofrequency (RF) treatment that combines the characteristics of microneedles and radiofrequency. The microneedles disrupt the epidermis and dermis to stimulate the skin's regenerative response, and the needle tips that reach beneath the skin continuously release radiofrequency energy in the deeper layers of the skin. Because only the needle tip is non-insulated, the epidermis is not heated, so the deep dermis can be heated more safely and precisely, stimulating collagen and elastin growth and remodeling, for lifting, tightening, and wrinkle-reducing effects. It can treat aging skin concerns such as sagging skin, orange-peel texture, stretch marks, and depressions.

[Differences Between Morpheus8 and Conventional Microneedling RF]

Morpheus8Conventional microneedling RF
NeedleInsulated needle; energy is released only at the tipNon-insulated needle; energy is released along the entire needle
Energy releaseBetween the needle tips and an external electrode padOnly between needles
Delivery rangeCan safely deliver high energy, with a wider area of stimulationLimited range of energy delivery
Degree of tissue changeA large amount of tissue is modifiedA small amount of tissue is modified
Treatment depthCovers shallow, middle, and deep layersMainly acts on the dermis (1-2mm beneath the skin)

Who it is for:

People who have had ultrasound lifting but are not satisfied with the results

People with aging, sagging, or loose skin

People who want to lift the skin and smooth wrinkles

People who want to improve postpartum stretch marks and a loose belly

5 Key Features of Morpheus8 Microneedling RF

1. Three probes to treat different skin layers

Morpheus8 offers probes for three skin layers: the surface layer, the middle-to-shallow layer, and the deep layer, suited to treatments of different depths and areas. This variety lets the physician choose a microneedle probe of the right depth for each treatment area.

0K probe24K probe40K probe
Treatment depthSuperficial skin 0.5mmMiddle-to-shallow skin 1-4mmDeep skin 5mm
Needles per probe24 ultra-fine microneedles24 ultra-fine microneedles40 ultra-fine microneedles
FeaturesFixed treatment depthTreatment depth can be flexibly adjustedCan treat very deep tissue
Suitable areasFaceFace, limbsBody, limbs
IndicationsWrinkle reduction, pore improvement, uneven skin toneFat reduction, firming, lifting, wrinkle reduction, skin quality improvement, uneven skin toneGrowth-related stretch marks, pregnancy stretch marks, orange-peel texture, loose belly skin

2. Single-use probes, safe and hygienic

Each person gets their own single-use probe that is never reused, for safer, more hygienic peace of mind.

3. Evenly conducting probe design that does not damage the skin

The probe has a unique mesh grid array that achieves 3D volumetric heating, distributing heat evenly without causing thermal damage to the epidermis.

4. Three firing modes to effectively improve different skin concerns

Morpheus8 offers several delivery modes: a fixed single-pulse mode, a continuous mode that builds up heat, and a multi-layer mode that fires at several depths separately. These pair well with the appropriate probe to suit different treatments.

5. More affordable than Thermage FLX

Morpheus8 microneedling RF is known as the "mini Thermage" but costs less than Thermage FLX, making it a good choice for those on a budget.

Morpheus8 Microneedling RF vs. Thermage FLX

Morpheus8 microneedling RFThermage FLX
PrincipleMicroneedles + radiofrequency, stimulating the growth of collagen and elastic fibers in the skinHeats the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate the regeneration and remodeling of collagen and elastin
Shots for a full faceUnlimited shotsAbout 900 shots
IndicationsSagging skin, fine lines, orange-peel texture, stretch marks, depressions, nasolabial folds, etc.Sagging skin, fine lines, orange-peel texture, stretch marks, depressions, nasolabial folds, etc.
Treatment time20-30 minutes per area45-60 minutes
Pain★★★★★
PriceNT$40,000-60,000 (face)NT$90,000-100,000

[Case Study]

Ditch Cheek Contouring Makeup for Lifted, Firmer Skin: A Patient's Morpheus8 Review

[I want to learn about Thermage FLX]

Precautions for Morpheus8 Microneedling RF

Before treatment:

1. Keep the skin clean before treatment (no makeup, lotion, skincare products, etc.)

2. Avoid excessive sun exposure before treatment

3. Avoid acid products (AHA, salicylic acid, retinoic acid, etc.) and exfoliation for 1 month before treatment

4. If filler injections (hyaluronic acid, autologous fat, etc.) have been placed in the treatment area, wait until 3 months later, when the filler has been metabolized

5. If you have had a laser treatment within the past month, tell your physician first

6. If you have keloids, skin conditions, or take special medications, tell your physician first so they can discuss it with you

After treatment:

1. After treatment, the treated area may show a grid pattern and redness and swelling, which fade on their own within a few hours

2. After treatment, strengthen hydration and sun protection; use sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to boost UV defense

3. Do not wear makeup for 24 hours after treatment; apply more lotion to help with hydration

4. Avoid hot springs, saunas, ovens, and other high-temperature environments for one week after treatment

5. Avoid irritating acid products and exfoliation for one week after treatment

6. Slight scabbing will occur and fall off on its own in about 3-5 days; do not pick or scratch it off

7. If you feel any discomfort after treatment, please return to the clinic as soon as possible

Contraindications for Morpheus8 Microneedling RF

1. Cardiac pacemaker or internal defibrillator, or any other metal or electronic implant anywhere in the body. The probe should be kept at least 1 cm away from a cochlear implant

2. Permanent implants in the treatment area, such as metal plates, screws, metal piercings, or silicone, unless the periosteal plane is deep enough

3. Current or past skin disease, or any other type of cancer or malignant moles

4. Pregnant or breastfeeding women

5. Serious complications, such as heart disease or sensory disorders

6. Immunosuppressive disease (such as AIDS and HIV), or an immune system compromised by immunosuppressive medication

7. Any signs of infection in the treatment area (such as eczema, rash, or psoriasis)

8. History of keloids, skin disease, abnormal wound healing, or very dry and fragile skin

9. History of bleeding or clotting disorders

10. Do not treat the lips, eyebrows, or other hair-bearing areas near the surface

Morpheus8 Microneedling RF FAQ

1. Is Morpheus8 microneedling RF painful?

Numbing cream can be applied before Morpheus8 to reduce pain during the procedure

2. How long do the results of Morpheus8 last?

For most people, lifting, tightening, and wrinkle-reducing effects are clearly noticeable after a single session, but the physician still needs to evaluate your individual skin condition and design a suitable treatment plan

3. How long does a Morpheus8 session take?

About 20-30 minutes per area

4. How long is the recovery period after Morpheus8?

Local swelling, pain, redness, numbness, or tingling after treatment usually disappear within a few days. A grid pattern and redness may remain from the treatment and fade on their own within a few hours. Slight scabbing forms after treatment and generally falls off gradually within about 3-5 days.

Aging, loose, and sagging skin caused by age, pregnancy, and weight loss is a concern for many people. Morpheus8 microneedling RF combines the advantages of microneedles and radiofrequency to help with these troublesome skin concerns, offering a non-surgical skin treatment. If you are interested, you are welcome to consult the professional physician team at NAISS CLINIC and restore firm skin!

This article is for general information only. Results vary from person to person; please consult a doctor in person before deciding on any treatment.