Experts Call This Treatment a Safe Alternative to Under-Eye Fillers—I Tested the Needle-Free Device

What is Emface?

Emface is a non-invasive treatment that uses a combination of HIFES (high-intensity facial electrical stimulation) and radiofrequency technology to improve facial muscle density and stimulate collagen and elastin production. According to plastic surgeon Yael Halaas, MD, it's the only device that can address and reverse the two main causes of aging—loss of facial muscle tone and loss of collagen.

The treatment works by using HIFES to contract your forehead and cheek muscles with an electromagnetic current, which elevates and lifts facial tissue. The RF technology then uses heat energy to prompt a wound-healing response in your skin, increasing collagen and elastin. These proteins are essential for keeping skin soft, plump, and youthful.

Benefits of Emface

Emface offers several benefits, including lift and tightness, restoration of volume, and reduction of fine lines. It also tones underlying facial muscles to provide an overall refreshed, tighter, and smoother complexion. The device has four different applicators designed for specific areas of the face: one for the forehead to lift the brows, one for the cheeks to sculpt and add volume, one for the submentum (under the chin) to reduce double chin, and one for the under eyes to target dark circles and bags.

Cost of Emface

One of the main drawbacks of Emface is its high cost. The price varies depending on location and practice, but in major cities like New York, a series of four treatments can range from $3000 to $4000. A single session typically costs around $850.

Duration of Results

On average, the results from a series of Emface treatments last about a year. However, lifestyle choices such as good sleep, a healthy diet, and regular use of SPF can impact how long the effects last. Dr. Halaas recommends completing four sessions spaced about a week or two apart to see full results. Maintenance sessions may be needed once or twice a year, depending on individual goals.

My Emface Experience

When I first tried Emface in 2023, I was impressed by how it gave my brows a lift and added definition to my cheekbones. While it didn't replace Botox for me, it did soften my forehead lines, which made sense since Botox paralyzes facial muscles to prevent lines, while Emface uses RF heat to smooth them. I felt refreshed and perky, though the changes were subtle.

Recently, I underwent a series of Emface Eyes treatments, and the results have been similar. My dark circles and bags aren’t completely gone, but they’re less noticeable. Even with concealer, my under-eye area used to look shadowy, but now I only need a quick dab of Nars Soft Matte Concealer to look less tired. Emface results usually peak about 90 days after the last session and continue to improve over time.

Treatment Process

The Emface treatment is quick and easy. Before the session, your provider will clean your skin with an alcohol pad to ensure the sticker applicators adhere properly. They’ll also place a grounding pad on your back. Once everything is set, the 20-minute treatment begins.

Emface is painless, though it does feel a bit strange, especially the first time. Each pad emits mild heat, similar to a hot stone massage, and vibrates, causing involuntary facial muscle twitching. If you’ve tried microcurrent, it’s a similar sensation but more intense. Unlike other non-invasive treatments, there’s no numbing required, and there’s no downtime afterward. You can go about your day immediately, with only a slight flush that lasts a few minutes.

Is Emface Worth It?

Emface is a great needle-free alternative to fillers. It’s safe for all skin tones and types, except for those with metal in their face due to the grounding applicator. It’s an excellent option for quickly lifting, toning, and smoothing without injections or downtime.

While it won’t replace Botox for me, it has replaced my interest in under-eye filler. If you're looking for a low-risk treatment to address signs of aging and are comfortable with the cost, Emface is definitely worth considering.