Shurink vs Thermage in Korea: Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Explained

In Korean aesthetic clinics, non-surgical lifting treatments are increasingly popular. Two standout technologies are Shurink and Thermage. Both aim to tighten skin and improve contour, but they use different energy types, target different depths, and are optimal under different circumstances.

Here’s a full breakdown of how they compare — to help you choose the right treatment for your skin, age, and goals.

What is Shurink?

• Shurink (and its newer version “Shurink Universe”) uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) or hybrid ultrasound/RF energy.
• It delivers energy deep into the skin (including fascia/SMAS layer) or deep dermis to stimulate collagen and lift tissues.
• It’s marketed as non-surgical, minimal downtime, good for skin laxity, V-line contouring, jawline, lower face.
• Example: “Shurink Universe … targets the dermis and superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) …”

Pros of Shurink

• Non-invasive, minimal downtime
• Good for early to moderate sagging
• Can treat contour (jawline, V-line) and multiple areas
• Many clinics in Korea offer it widely

Cons of Shurink

• Less lifting power than surgical alternatives or the deepest devices
• Multiple sessions may be needed for best effect
• Results may be more modest compared to stronger devices

What is Thermage?

• Thermage is a monopolar radiofrequency (RF) device, non-ablative, that delivers heat deep into the dermis/subcutaneous tissue, stimulating collagen remodelling.
• The newer generation (Thermage FLX) improves tip size, efficiency, comfort.
• It is often used for skin tightening, contouring, specifically in face, neck, eyelid/periorbital areas (Thermage is one of few RF devices approved for eyelids)

Pros of Thermage

• Stronger tightening effect especially in skin laxity
• Single session often sufficient for some patients
• Long track-record, widely accepted in dermatology
• Can treat harder zones like eyelids (in some versions)

Cons of Thermage

• More discomfort (heat sensation) during treatment
• Higher cost than some other devices
• Downtime may be a little longer or more pronounced (swelling, heat)
• Results still limited compared to surgical lifting

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Shurink if you:

• Are in your 30s to early 50s with mild-to-moderate sagging
• Want a non-surgical facial contouring + tightening treatment
• Prefer minimal downtime
• Are looking to improve jawline definition, V-line, early jowls
• Want a treatment with 1–2 sessions and are comfortable doing maintenance

Choose Thermage if you:

• Have noticeable skin laxity, sagging under the chin, neck, lower face
• Want a stronger tightening effect without surgery
• Are willing to accept slightly more discomfort and higher cost
• Prefer a “one-session + maintenance” model
• Wish to treat areas like eyelids or upper face where RF is effective

Consider Combining treatments

In Korean clinics, it’s common to combine devices:

• Example: Use Shurink for contour & SMAS-layer lift + Thermage for overall skin tightening
• Or sequence: Thermage first for deep tightening, then Shurink for refinement
• This layered approach gives both lift + elasticity

Practical Tips for Patients in Korea

• Ask: Which model/version of the device will be used? (Shurink Universe vs original; Thermage FLX vs CPT)
• Ask: How many shots / handpieces and what depth are planned?
• Discuss pain management: numbing cream, cooling handpieces, breaks
• Check before/after photos of comparable age/concern
• Understand maintenance plan: Do you need another session in 6–12 months?
• Confirm cost breakdown: device, shots, area treated, follow-up
• Ask about skin types and risk of side effects (especially if you have darker skin)
• Ensure clinic is experienced with both devices and uses real calibrated equipment

Final Thoughts

Both Shurink and Thermage are excellent non-surgical options for skin tightening and early facial rejuvenation in Korea — but they serve slightly different purposes.

• If you want contour + lift with minimal downtime, Shurink is a strong choice.
• If your priority is firming / tightening of more advanced sagging skin, Thermage may offer more power.
• Ultimately, the best result often comes from matching your anatomy + aging pattern + goals with the right device, and possibly combining technologies under a skilled Korean clinician.