Collagen Biostimulators vs. Ultherapy: Which Works Best for Firming Skin?

Ultherapy Prime has taken the aesthetic world by storm—gaining momentum across the United States, Korea, and now sweeping across Asia and Singapore. Touted by MERZ Aesthetics as a game-changer, Ultherapy Prime is 25% faster, offers enhanced imaging, and is more comfortable for patients than previous models. With celebrity advocates such as Salma Hayek and top Korean stars like Lee Minho and Jun Ji-hyun showcasing their experience on YouTube and social media, it’s no wonder Ultherapy Prime is becoming a go-to for skin tightening.

Unlike traditional skin-lifting procedures that require incisions, downtime, and a significant recovery period, Ultherapy Prime utilises focused ultrasound to lift and tighten skin naturally. It’s the non-invasive answer to skin laxity, and with the upgraded imaging and more targeted delivery system, practitioners can now visualise the exact layers of tissue they are treating. This real-time visualisation enhances accuracy, safety, and comfort. As a result, clients are experiencing faster treatments, reduced discomfort, and extraordinary outcomes compared to earlier versions of Ultherapy.

 

The Benchmark for Non-Surgical Face Lifting

For years, Ultherapy has been regarded as the gold standard for non-invasive, non-surgical face lifting and contouring. It’s FDA-cleared and has been performed millions of times globally. Patients who are not ready for surgical facelifts often turn to Ultherapy for a gradual, natural-looking lift—especially in the brow, jawline, and under the chin areas.

But as the aesthetics landscape continues to evolve, collagen biostimulators have entered the market with remarkable promise. Both collagen biostimulators and Ultherapy has become increasingly popular in Singapore, Malaysia, and other parts of Asia, this leads us to a pivotal question: how does Ultherapy compare to injectable collagen biostimulators?

 

Understanding Collagen Biostimulators: Devices vs. Injectables

To answer this, we must first understand the classification of collagen biostimulators. These treatments fall into two major categories: devices and injectables, defined by their delivery method.

Devices, like Ultherapy Prime, use high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to deliver thermal energy deep into the skin’s foundational layers. This energy heats tissues to trigger the body’s natural collagen response by activating heat shock proteins (HSPs). The process initiates a cascade of wound healing and collagen remodelling.

Injectables, on the other hand, involve the direct placement of safe biocompatible products into the dermis or subdermis. These materials act as scaffolds, stimulating the fibroblasts to produce new collagen and elastin fibres over time. Depending on the product used—such as PDLLA  (Poly-D,L-lactic acid), CaHA(Calcium Hydroxylapatite, or PCL (Polycaprolactone)—the effects may include subtle volume restoration, improved texture, and visible lifting.

Both methods reach deep layers, including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which is the foundational structure surgeons manipulate during facelifts. By stimulating collagen in this critical layer, both devices and injectables offer visible skin firming and contouring.

 

What Do Clinical Studies Say?

Despite the popularity of both treatment types, there are currently no head-to-head clinical studies comparing Ultherapy Prime with injectable collagen biostimulators. However, independent clinical data exists to support each modality’s effectiveness:

A 2023 study published in Polymers highlights the efficacy and biocompatibility of PDLLA-based injectables. The study demonstrated long-lasting collagen stimulation and minimal inflammatory response. These biospheres mimic natural tissue structures and gradually resorb into the body.

A separate study on HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound), including Ultherapy, found statistically significant improvement in dermal elasticity and lifting effects after a single session, especially in periorbital and jawline areas. 

Together, these studies reinforce the idea that both methods effectively stimulate collagen—but through distinct mechanisms. It’s less a matter of which is “better,” and more about patient selection, anatomy, and treatment goals.

 

Clinical Experience with Ultherapy Prime

From our experience at Ozhean Zoey, Ultherapy Prime provides a gentle to moderate lift. The treatment excels at improving facial contours, especially along the jawline and cheek area. It's particularly suited for:

However, it’s important to manage expectations. Patients with significant sagging, thick skin, or deep folds (such as pronounced nasolabial or marionette lines) may not experience dramatic lifting. For these cases, Ultherapy can serve as a foundational treatment but often requires combination with other therapies—like collagen-stimulating injectables or threads—for optimal improvement.

 

Clinical Experience with Injectable Biostimulators

Injectable biostimulators offer a dual benefit: they not only trigger collagen production but also restore volume in areas that appear sunken or aged. This volumising effect is absent in Ultherapy.

In particular, patients with facial hollowness or those experiencing mid-face flattening respond extremely well to injectables. Instead of merely tightening the skin, these injectables rebuild the youthful contours of the face, creating a lifted and fuller appearance.

A key point: Ultherapy alone may exacerbate facial hollows in lean individuals. This is why injectables are often the preferred approach for such facial types. The effect is sometimes referred to as “liquid thread lift” because it mimics the lifting impact of face threads, albeit through biostimulation rather than physical suspension.

comparison table of collagen biostimulators

 

Safety and Comfort

Safety remains a top priority in aesthetics. Fortunately, both Ultherapy Prime and injectable biostimulators have well-documented safety profiles.

Ultherapy Prime has undergone extensive clinical validation. It is FDA-cleared and CE-marked, with a well-established track record of safety across over 1.5 million procedures globally. The upgraded version further reduces the risk of discomfort and inaccurate targeting due to its real-time imaging feature.

Injectables such as PCL Fillers, PDLLA Fillers and CaHA Fillers have all been studied for safety and effectiveness. Most are biodegradable, biocompatible, and absorbed by the body over time, leaving behind newly generated collagen.

 

Pain Comparison:

Ultherapy Prime is notably more comfortable than its predecessor due to enhanced energy modulation and targeting. While mild discomfort is still possible, most patients describe the sensation as tolerable, especially with numbing or oral analgesia. Injectables may cause a mild stinging or swelling but are similarly well-tolerated when pre-treated with topical anaesthetic.

ultherapy vs biostimulator injectables

 

Better Together: The Power of Collagen Synergy

Should You Combine the Two? Absolutely.

If you saw $50 and $25 on the ground, wouldn’t you pick up both? The same applies to collagen biostimulation. While many patients think they must choose between Ultherapy or injectables, the truth is they work better when used together.

Why? Because they act through different biological mechanisms:

Ultherapy delivers energy to stimulate HSPs and remodel collagen at a deep level.

Injectables build volume and structure while gradually boosting collagen through physical scaffolding.  In other words, Ultherapy tightens and lifts, while injectables rebuild structure and fullness. The outcome? A more youthful, balanced, and natural-looking facial profile—without appearing overdone or “treated.”

At Ozhean Zoey, our signature approach involves layering treatments. For instance, we may start with a round of injectable collagen stimulators to restore volume and apply local anaesthetic. Subsequently, we perform Ultherapy Prime to tighten and contour over the revitalised foundation.

This two-step method not only improves comfort (thanks to anaesthesia diffusion) but also fast-tracks visible results, reduces treatment redundancy, and maximises collagen production for longer-lasting effects.

 

Closing Thoughts: Tailored for Your Skin Journey

In the world of aesthetics, there’s no universal “ideal” treatment—only the bespoke solution for you. Whether it’s Ultherapy Prime, collagen biostimulators, or a combination of both, your ideal treatment plan should reflect your skin’s current condition, age, expectations, and goals.

At Ozhean Zoey, we specialise in collagen-focused aesthetic solutions and pride ourselves on delivering natural, scientifically-backed results. Our medical professionals will assess your facial anatomy and recommend the most effective treatment plan—backed by technology, guided by experience, and personalised to your needs.

Ready to begin your journey to firmer, youthful skin? Book a consultation with our team and discover the power of collagen transformation today.

Ultherapy vs. Other Skin Tightening Treatments: Which Works For You?

If you’re reading this article, chances are you’re already concerned about skin laxity or early signs of ageing. You may have come across the term “Ultherapy” while exploring non-invasive options to lift and tighten your skin. But what exactly is it—and how does it compare to the many skin tightening treatments out there?

Ultherapy, and its latest evolution, Ultherapy Prime, is an FDA-cleared non-invasive treatment that uses focused ultrasound to stimulate collagen production deep within the skin. Launched over a decade ago, Ultherapy has become a global household name in the world of aesthetic medicine. With over 2 million treatments performed worldwide, it has earned a solid reputation for delivering visible, natural-looking lifting effects.

In recent years, the arrival of Ultherapy Prime—an upgraded version—has further elevated its popularity. According to MERZ Aesthetics, Ultherapy Prime is 25% faster, offers enhanced imaging accuracy, and is significantly more comfortable for patients. Korean superstars Lee Min Ho and Jun Ji-hyun, alongside Hollywood icon Salma Hayek, are among the high-profile names associated with the treatment, often featured in global campaigns and social media features.

 

The Collagen Conversation: Why You’re Likely Here

If you’re exploring Ultherapy, you likely understand the importance of collagen banking—a preventative and restorative approach to slow down the ageing process by preserving and stimulating collagen before it’s lost. Ultherapy is widely regarded as one of the most reliable ways to do so because it targets collagen production exactly where it matters most: the foundational layers of the skin, including the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System)—a key structure also addressed during surgical facelifts.

But you may now be wondering: how does Ultherapy compare to other skin tightening treatments like radiofrequency (RF), laser, microneedling, or newer modalities? To answer that, we must first distinguish between two often-confused terms: skin tightening and skin lifting.

 

Skin Tightening vs. Skin Lifting: What’s the Difference?

The first step to choosing the right treatment is understanding the difference between skin tightening and skin lifting. Though often used interchangeably, they target different layers and deliver different outcomes.

Skin Tightening typically refers to treatments that affect the superficial dermal layer. These methods aim to make the skin appear firmer, smoother, and more elastic—think of it like tightening the surface layer of a stretched-out rubber band. Modalities such as radiofrequency (RF), microneedling with RF, and certain laser technologies fall into this category. They stimulate collagen at a shallower depth and are great for improving fine lines, pores, and mild laxity.

Skin Lifting, on the other hand, targets deeper layers, particularly the SMAS layer and subcutaneous fat layer, which are more structurally responsible for sagging. Lifting involves repositioning the underlying support tissue to counter gravity’s pull. Ultherapy is one of the few non-surgical technologies that can reach this depth without disrupting the skin surface.

 

Why Does This Matter?

Collagen loss through the years

As we age, collagen loss occurs across multiple layers—not just the surface. Effective anti-ageing treatment requires addressing both skin firmness (tightening) and sagging (lifting). For example, if your concern is smile lines or marionette lines, which are often caused by descending facial fat and tissue, a lifting approach would be more effective than a surface-level tightening treatment alone.

In short: skin tightening improves skin texture and firmness, while skin lifting restores youthful contour and structure.

 

The Versatility of Ultherapy Prime: Multi-Layer Accuracy

One of the key advantages of Ultherapy Prime lies in its multi-depth technology. Using specially designed transducers, Ultherapy delivers ultrasound energy at three specific depths: 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm.

1.5mm targets the superficial dermis, improving skin texture and fine lines.

3.0mm stimulates the deeper dermis, promoting firmer, denser skin.

4.5mm reaches the SMAS layer, the same depth addressed in surgical facelifts, to induce a tightening and lifting effect.

This tiered approach means Ultherapy can deliver both skin tightening and lifting in one treatment—something most other non-invasive devices cannot achieve. Radiofrequency, fractional lasers, and microneedling generally act on the dermal layer only. Ultherapy’s ability to target multiple tissue depths is what makes it uniquely effective for overall facial rejuvenation.

 

Ultherapy vs. HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)

HIFU

While Ultherapy is a type of HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound), not all HIFU machines are the same. Ultherapy stands out because it has both FDA and CE approvals, meaning it has been thoroughly tested and proven safe and effective through many clinical studies.

One of the biggest advantages of Ultherapy is that it uses real-time ultrasound imaging. This allows doctors to see exactly where they are delivering the energy, ensuring it targets the right layers of the skin for the best lifting and tightening results. It also has a special energy mapping system that helps ensure consistent and reliable outcomes for every patient.

In comparison, many other HIFU devices may make similar promises, but they often lack the same level of official approvals, quality control, and proper operator training. As a result, treatments with other machines can sometimes be less predictable and may not deliver the same high level of results and safety that Ultherapy offers.


Ultherapy vs. Radiofrequency (RF) Skin Tightening

Radiofrequency (RF) treatments—like Thermage, 10Therma, and Exilis—use heat energy to stimulate the skin. They gently heat the deeper layers of the skin, which causes the existing collagen to tighten and encourages the body to produce new collagen. Over time, this leads to firmer, smoother, and tighter skin.

RF treatments are especially effective for:

RF works by creating a broad, gentle heating effect across the skin, which wakes up the skin cells (fibroblasts) responsible for making new collagen. This gives an overall improvement in skin texture and elasticity.

However, it’s important to know the difference between medical-grade RF machines (used in professional aesthetic clinics) and the lower-powered RF machines you might find in salons or for home use. The professional machines use stronger, safer energy levels and are backed by clinical studies—while the lower-grade machines often can't deliver real, noticeable results.

Ultherapy, on the other hand, uses a different kind of energy—High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). Instead of heating large areas broadly like RF, Ultherapy focuses energy into very tiny, specific points deep within the skin, even reaching the SMAS layer—the same layer surgeons target during a facelift.

Here’s a simple comparison:

A 2015 medical study also showed that RF can heat the skin up to about 4mm deep, while Ultherapy can go even deeper—up to 4.5mm—reaching important foundational tissues that help lift and firm the face.

In short:

 

The Power Duo: Why Combining RF and Ultherapy Delivers Next-Level Results

Good skin korean lady

Can They Be Combined?

Absolutely. Many clinicians use RF and Ultherapy together as part of a comprehensive collagen strategy:

That’s the magic behind combining Ultherapy and Radiofrequency (RF). While each treatment on its own delivers impressive results, together they form a synergistic approach that targets multiple layers of the skin for comprehensive rejuvenation.

This combination works like a one-two punch: RF builds skin quality on the surface, while Ultherapy reinforces the foundation below. The result? Firmer, brighter, more sculpted skin—with zero surgery and minimal downtime.

At Ozhean Zoey, we call this signature treatment protocol Ultherma—a fusion of Ulthera and 10Therma. Patients love the visible lifting and tightening it achieves, especially when performed in a strategic sequence.

 

Ultherapy vs. Fractional Lasers

Fractional lasers, like CO2 or Er:YAG lasers, work by creating tiny, controlled injuries in the skin. This process triggers the skin’s natural healing response, leading to the production of new collagen and healthier skin over time.

These lasers are great for:

However, it's important to know that lasers mainly work on the skin’s surface. They do not lift or tighten deeper layers of the face. Laser treatments also usually come with some downtime, as the skin needs time to heal and recover after treatment.

Ultherapy is different. Instead of treating the surface, Ultherapy targets deeper layers under the skin without damaging the skin’s outer layer. It stimulates collagen production at a much deeper level, helping to lift and tighten the skin naturally—and with no downtime needed.

 

Ultherapy vs. Microneedling with RF

Treatments like Microneedling RF and Morpheus8 combine microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy. Tiny needles create small injuries in the skin, while RF energy heats the deeper layers at the same time. This double action boosts collagen production and helps rejuvenate the skin.

Microneedling RF is great for:

While these treatments are very effective for refreshing and smoothing the skin, they mainly work on the upper layers. They don't lift deeper facial structures or target the SMAS layer (the deeper layer that surgeons lift during facelifts).

That's why Microneedling RF and Ultherapy aren't competing treatments—they actually complement each other. Microneedling RF refines the skin’s surface, while Ultherapy focuses on lifting and strengthening the deeper foundations of the face.

 

Comparative Table of Skin Tightening Technologies

Treatment

Target Depth

Mechanism

Downtime

Lifting Effect

Skin Texture

Duration

Ultherapy Prime

1.5, 3.0, 4.5mm

Ultrasound (HIFU)

None

Strong

Moderate

12–18 months

Standard HIFU

3.0, 4.5mm

Ultrasound

Minimal

Variable

Mild

6–12 months

RF (e.g., 10Therma)

1.5–3.0mm

Radiofrequency

None

Mild

Strong

6–12 months

Fractional Laser

<1.5mm

Laser Resurfacing

3–7 days

None

Strong

6–12 months

Microneedling RF

1.5–2.5mm

RF + Needling

1–3 days

Mild

Strong

6–9 months

 

Can Skin Tightening Treatments Be Combined? (Synergistic Use)

Absolutely—and in fact, combining treatments is often the key to achieving the most natural and comprehensive results. While Ultherapy is exceptional for deep tissue lifting, it can be strategically paired with other modalities to address additional skin concerns. Many aesthetic professionals complement Ultherapy with injectable biostimulators such as PDLLA or CaHA to restore facial volume and further stimulate collagen in the mid to deep dermis. For patients looking to improve skin texture, Microneedling RF is commonly added to tighten pores, reduce acne scars, and refine the skin’s surface. Meanwhile, laser treatments—like fractional lasers or pigment lasers—can be used to even out tone, reduce pigmentation, and improve radiance. This layered approach allows us to treat sagging, dullness, fine lines, uneven tone, and loss of volume in one comprehensive protocol.

Clinical Studies Supporting Ultherapy

Ultherapy is one of the most clinically validated non-invasive lifting treatments available today. Backed by a wealth of published research and over 2 million procedures performed globally, Ultherapy has firmly established its reputation for both safety and efficacy. It is FDA-cleared for lifting and tightening the brow, chin, neck, and décolletage, making it one of the few treatments that is clinically approved for use on multiple key facial zones. Studies have consistently shown that Ultherapy not only improves skin laxity but also stimulates a measurable increase in collagen and elastin production, thanks to the body’s natural regenerative response to focused ultrasound energy. In a variety of peer-reviewed journals—including Lasers in Surgery and Medicine—Ultherapy has demonstrated positive outcomes in skin firmness, patient satisfaction, and long-term collagen remodeling. This robust clinical support, combined with real-world patient results, makes Ultherapy a gold standard in the field of non-surgical skin lifting.

When it comes to addressing signs of ageing, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The ideal treatment depends on your skin’s current condition, your personal goals, your tolerance for downtime, and the kind of results you’re seeking—whether it’s lifting, tightening, brightening, or resurfacing.

 

A Layered Collagen Strategy for Lifting, Firming, and Renewal

At Ozhean Zoey, we believe in a multi-layer collagen strategy that goes beyond just treating the surface. We integrate technologies like Ultherapy Prime, 10Therma, injectables, and advanced lasers to address skin ageing from every angle.

If skin lifting is your priority—like improving jawline definition, cheek contour, or neck firmness—then Ultherapy Prime is our top recommendation, thanks to its ability to reach and stimulate the SMAS layer non-invasively.

For those focused on skin tightening and elasticity, 10Therma, our medical-grade monopolar RF treatment, works exceptionally well by delivering controlled bulk heating to the dermis.

And if your concerns revolve around skin texture, tone, or pigmentation, fractional laser treatments can help smooth, brighten, and rejuvenate the surface layer.

Ultherapy Prime continues to be one of the most reliable and clinically proven methods for natural, long-term skin lifting. But ultimately, the most ideal outcomes are achieved through a personalised, layered approach—one that considers your skin’s biology, your lifestyle, and your vision of beauty.

If you’re starting to notice subtle changes or simply want to be proactive in maintaining your skin, we welcome you to have a conversation with our team. We’re here to help you discover the right path forward—one that feels aligned with you.

What is The Korean Glass Skin And How To Get It?

Whether you’re into Korean celebrities or not, the chance of stumbling upon their photos and videos on social media is pretty much inevitable. And as you scroll further, you’ll most probably get so drawn at how these celebrities have exquisitely glowing skin that just seems super healthy and natural! What you’re seeing is the highly-coveted Korean Glass Skin concept that has conquered the beauty scene not just in South Korea, but also in many parts of the globe. It’s a radiant type of glow that’s more than just bright-looking skin, but also has this signature “water-like shine” that’s apparent on the skin’s surface.

So how can you achieve such youthful, Korean Glass Skin radiance? As the experts in Korean aesthetics in Singapore, we’ll talk about all the useful ways for you to get that luminous glow.

 

The Korean Glass Skin Beauty Concept Explained

Korean Glass Skin, also referred to as “Mulgwang (물광) in Korean, literally translates to “Water (물) Glow(광)”. It is a skincare philosophy that involves flawless, healthy skin that’s evident from its luminous, poreless, and glassy appearance. 

Some of the distinctive features of this beauty concept are plump, well-hydrated, and glowy skin even if there’s little to no make-up applied. Korean Glass Skin isn’t achievable with just about one miracle product or treatment, but a total elevation of the skincare routine you already know.

 

How Do I Tailor My Skincare Routine to Achieve Korean Glass Skin?

Skincare is never a one-size-fits-all notion — it’s different for every individual. However, there are skincare principles you can refer to in order to tailor your routine according to your skin needs, while specifically targeting to achieve the Korean Glass Skin look. It all begins with understanding your skin type.

 

Know Your Skin Type

There’s a common misconception that Korean Glass Skin isn’t for those with oily skin types because of how it involves intense moisture. However, that’s not entirely true! Whatever your skin type is, deep moisture is always essential. Here’s a quick guide on what to look for according to every skin type.

 

Proper Skincare Layering

deh skincare products

Layering your skincare products can be quite intimidating, don’t you think? That’s absolutely understandable because the idea of piling one skincare product after the other can give the impression of experiencing a heavy, greasy feeling. We don’t want that, of course.

The Korean way of skincare layering is all about timing and strategy. To achieve Korean Glass Skin, you have to step up your basics while giving each step some time to allow the products to work their wonders. Here are some quick skincare layering tips, just like how Korean beauty enthusiasts do it.

 

Skincare Treatments to Boost Up Your “K-Glow”

Committing to proper skin care will take you on a journey, and when we say journey, that means it’ll take some time for you to see noticeable results (and that is if you’re spotlessly consistent with your routine). If you want to give your Korean Glass Skin quest a total boost, modern science has opened a number of options for you. More than anyone else, only experienced professionals in the field of skin aesthetics can guide you to reaching your Korean Glass Skin goals.

Laser treatments, aqua peel treatments, and hyaluronic fillers are just some of the most common skincare treatments that can help you achieve that radiant, translucent skin. They all work in different ways and have different variations, so it’s important to consult your dermatologist to know which one is for you. For instance, there’s Mulgwang Laser, which is a signature and unique laser treatment specifically targeting skin concerns regarding texture and complexion. As a result of addressing these skin concerns through Mulgwang Laser, you’ll get that Korean Glass skin glow after just a few sessions.

 

More Lifestyle Tips Beyond Just Skincare

Korean Glass Skin started as a beauty trend in South Korea in the mid-2010s but as minimalist skincare and makeup have been continuously relevant in the beauty scene, Korean Glass Skin became a beauty concept that’s been incorporated not only in people’s skincare routines but also into their lifestyles in general. It’s undeniably true that beautiful skin starts from within, so achieving the Korean Glass Skin glow is more than just skincare and aesthetic treatments. It all comes down to a healthy lifestyle. 

Being mindful of your diet is one great example of a lifestyle choice that contributes to the condition of your skin. Here are some tips you may want to check out to help you reassess your lifestyle and therefore lead you to options that will help you achieve the glowy, youthful Korean Glass Skin effect you’ve been wanting.

 

There are so many things you can do to achieve that Korean Glass Skin glow, right? It’s not just about a single step or option, but collective choices in your lifestyle that can influence the health and appearance of your skin. Which among these Korean Glass Skin tips have you already started doing?