Does EMFACE Really Work? Benefits, Results, and Cost
EMFACE has gained attention as a needle-free way to lift, tone, and firm the face, and one of the first questions patients ask is simple: does it actually work? EMFACE is a non-invasive facial treatment that targets both the skin and the underlying facial muscles using two synchronized forms of energy. Clinical studies using 3D imaging, ultrasound, and other objective measurements have documented improvements in wrinkle depth, facial muscle tone, and midface lifting following a standard treatment series.
The results you see, however, depend on your starting anatomy, degree of skin and muscle laxity, and how the treatment plan is designed around your individual facial structure.
At Epion Aesthetics & Wellness in Hillsboro, we approach EMFACE as a structural facial treatment rather than simply a skin treatment. Our goal is to create a face that looks naturally lifted, refreshed, and balanced while preserving normal facial movement and expression. Every EMFACE treatment plan is built around the patient’s anatomy, areas of concern, and long-term aesthetic goals.
What is EMFACE and how does it work?
EMFACE is a non-invasive facial treatment designed to address both the skin and the underlying facial muscles in the same session. It combines synchronized radiofrequency energy with HIFES, or High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation. The applicators are placed directly on the skin, no needles are required, and a standard full-face treatment takes approximately 20 minutes.
The radiofrequency energy delivers controlled heat to the dermal layers of the skin, supporting collagen and elastin remodeling over time. As this process continues in the weeks following treatment, patients may notice firmer, smoother, and more supported skin. At the same time, HIFES technology stimulates targeted facial muscles through thousands of contractions during each treatment. Depending on applicator placement, EMFACE can target muscles involved in facial elevation and support, helping improve muscle tone and the structural framework of the face.
This combination is what makes EMFACE different from many traditional facial treatments. Facial aging is influenced by more than skin quality alone. Changes in collagen, elastin, facial muscle tone, fat distribution, and underlying structure all contribute to how the face changes over time. By addressing both skin and muscle, EMFACE offers a different approach to facial rejuvenation focused on supporting the face from multiple layers.
EMFACE treatments can be customized to address the forehead and brow, cheeks, under-eye area, submental region beneath the chin, and the masseter muscles of the jaw. Specialized EMFACE Eyes and EMFACE Submentum applicators allow us to target specific areas of concern, while treatment of the masseter muscles may be incorporated for appropriate patients experiencing jaw muscle tension or overactivity.
For a more detailed look at the areas we treat and what to expect during your visit, our EMFACE in Hillsboro OR page walks through the treatment process, from consultation through maintenance.
Does EMFACE really work? What does the research show?
Clinical research evaluating EMFACE has used objective measurement tools, including 3D surface imaging, ultrasound, and electromyography, to evaluate changes in the skin and facial muscles following treatment. These technologies allow researchers to measure structural changes that may not always be fully captured in standard before-and-after photography.
Research insight: In a 2025 multicenter study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 33 patients who completed four EMFACE treatments demonstrated an average wrinkle reduction of approximately 35% at the three-month follow-up. Eighty-eight percent of patients also improved by at least one point on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. Outcomes reported in clinical studies do not guarantee individual results. |
Additional research evaluating the midface has documented increases in facial muscle thickness and midface volume following a four-treatment series, with measurable changes continuing after the final treatment. Published studies and clinical data have also reported improvements in wrinkle appearance, facial lifting, and resting muscle tone following treatment.
The research supports what EMFACE is designed to do: improve facial muscle tone while supporting skin remodeling and a more lifted facial appearance. However, clinical averages do not predict exactly how an individual face will respond. Skin quality, facial anatomy, degree of muscle and skin laxity, age-related volume changes, and treatment planning can all influence the final result.
For appropriately selected patients, EMFACE can provide measurable lifting and facial rejuvenation without surgery or injectables. It is important to understand its limitations, however. EMFACE can tone, firm, and support the face, but it does not remove significant excess skin or replace a surgical facelift when advanced laxity is present.
What are the benefits of EMFACE?
One of the biggest benefits of EMFACE is its ability to address facial skin and muscle without needles, incisions, or downtime. Treatments are non-invasive, and patients can typically return to work, exercise, or normal daily activities immediately after their appointment.
Visible improvements may include a more lifted appearance through the brows and cheeks, improved jawline definition, smoother-looking skin, and a more refreshed appearance around the eyes. Because EMFACE works by stimulating and toning targeted facial muscles rather than limiting muscle movement, natural facial expression is preserved.
Patients most commonly notice:
- A more lifted and firmer appearance through the brows and cheeks
- Improved facial contour and jawline definition
- Smoother, firmer-looking skin
- A more open and refreshed appearance around the eyes
- Gradual improvements that continue to develop after the treatment series
What makes EMFACE unique is its ability to address facial muscle tone as part of a comprehensive approach to facial aging. Neuromodulators, dermal fillers, biostimulators, and energy-based treatments each address different components of the aging process. EMFACE adds another option by targeting the underlying facial muscles while simultaneously supporting skin remodeling.
For patients who prefer to avoid needles, as well as those who want to complement an existing injectable or skin rejuvenation plan, EMFACE offers a non-invasive approach that can be customized around their facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
How soon will you see EMFACE results?
EMFACE results develop gradually because both skin remodeling and muscle conditioning take time. Some patients notice early changes during their treatment series, while the most visible improvements typically continue to develop in the weeks following the final session.
Time point | What you may notice |
|---|---|
Weeks 1 to 2 | Early tightening. Skin feels firmer, though visible change is still subtle. |
Weeks 3 to 4 | Lifting becomes visible in the brows and cheeks, and the jawline looks more defined. |
Weeks 6 to 8 | Contour continues to refine as newly formed collagen matures. |
Week 12 and beyond | Peak results. Firmer skin, smoother texture, and a lifted midface. This is the best point to judge your outcome. |
For this reason, we typically evaluate EMFACE before-and-after results around the three-month mark rather than immediately after the final treatment. Results may continue to evolve following the treatment series, and maintenance treatments can be incorporated based on the patient’s anatomy, goals, and response to treatment.
How much does EMFACE cost?
The cost of EMFACE varies based on the areas being treated, the number of treatments recommended, and the overall goals of your treatment plan. At Epion Aesthetics & Wellness, EMFACE is not approached as a one-size-fits-all treatment series.
Most patients begin with a series of four to eight treatments performed over approximately three to eight weeks. Treatment plans may focus on the cheeks and forehead, cheeks and submental area beneath the chin, forehead and under-eye area, or the submental area alone. The number of sessions and treatment areas recommended depend on your facial anatomy, degree of skin and muscle laxity, and the results you are hoping to achieve.
What affects your cost | Detail |
|---|---|
Number of areas | EMFACE treatment plans may target the cheeks and forehead, cheeks and submental area, forehead and under-eye area, or the submental area alone. |
Number of sessions | Most patients begin with four to eight treatments based on their anatomy, goals, and treatment response. |
Provider and market | Pricing varies by region and by the training and experience of the provider. |
Packages and memberships | Bundled series and membership pricing usually cost less per session than single visits. |
Combination Treatments | EMFACE may be combined with injectables, biostimulators, or other skin rejuvenation treatments, like microneedling or AgeJet, when multiple components of facial aging are being addressed. |
Maintenance | Periodic maintenance treatments may be recommended based on your treatment response and long-term goals. |
Because every EMFACE treatment plan is customized, the most accurate way to determine your cost is through an in-person consultation. EMFACE consultations at Epion are $100, and the consultation fee is applied toward your treatment.
During your consultation, we evaluate your facial anatomy, skin and muscle laxity, areas of concern, and long-term aesthetic goals to determine which EMFACE treatment areas and number of sessions are most appropriate for you. Treatment planning is guided by advanced training, extensive experience with facial aesthetics, and our expertise as an advanced EMFACE provider.
Financing options through Cherry and CareCredit are also available for qualified patients.
Quick candidacy check EMFACE may be a good option for patients noticing changes in facial muscle tone, skin firmness, brow position, facial contour, the under-eye area, or the submental region beneath the chin. It is especially well suited for patients who want a natural-looking approach to facial rejuvenation without surgery, needles, or downtime. During your consultation at Epion, we evaluate your facial anatomy, skin quality, and degree of muscle and skin laxity to determine whether EMFACE is appropriate for your concerns and which treatment areas may provide the most benefit. |
Who is a good candidate for EMFACE?
EMFACE can be a good option for a wide range of patients because it addresses both facial muscle tone and skin quality. Ideal candidates may be noticing early to moderate changes in facial aging, including a heavier or lower brow position, loss of cheek support, softening facial contours, changes around the eyes, or fullness and laxity beneath the chin.
Younger patients may also choose EMFACE as part of a proactive facial rejuvenation plan focused on supporting facial muscle tone and collagen remodeling. It can be especially appealing to patients who prefer to avoid needles or downtime, as well as those who want to complement treatments such as neuromodulators, dermal fillers, biostimulators, or other skin rejuvenation treatments.
Candidacy is based on anatomy and treatment goals rather than age alone. EMFACE may not be appropriate for patients with certain implanted electronic devices or metal in or near the treatment area. A medical history and safety screening are completed before treatment to determine whether EMFACE is appropriate for you.
How does EMFACE compare to Botox, fillers, and a facelift?
Patients considering EMFACE often ask how it compares with neuromodulators such as Xeomin or Botox, dermal fillers, and surgical facial rejuvenation. The answer depends on which component of facial aging you are trying to address. Each treatment works differently, and in many cases, the most natural results come from addressing more than one layer of the face.
Feature | EMFACE | Botox | Dermal fillers | Surgical facelift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mechanism | Uses synchronized RF and HIFES to support skin remodeling and improve facial muscle tone | Temporarily reduces targeted muscle activity | Restores volume, enhances structural support, and improves facial contour | Surgically repositions deeper facial tissues and removes excess skin |
Needles | None | Yes | Yes | Surgical incisions |
Downtime | None | Minimal | Minimal, although swelling or bruising may occur | Several weeks of healing and recovery |
Muscle effect | Strengthens levator muscles | Temporarily weakens targeted muscles | None | None |
Best for | Natural lift and firmer skin | Softening expression lines | Restoring lost volume | Significant, lasting lift |
Timeline | Develops gradually over several weeks, with results continuing to evolve | Typically begins within several days and develops over approximately two weeks | Often visible immediately | Results become more apparent as surgical swelling and healing progress |
These treatments are not necessarily alternatives to one another. They address different components of facial aging and can often be used together as part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan.
Neuromodulators, such as Botox in Hillsboro help soften dynamic expression lines and reduce targeted muscle activity. Dermal fillers can restore lost volume, improve structural support, and enhance facial balance. EMFACE targets facial muscle tone while simultaneously supporting skin remodeling and firmness. For patients with significant skin laxity or advanced tissue descent, a consultation with a qualified facial plastic surgeon may be more appropriate.
At Epion, treatment recommendations are based on facial anatomy and the underlying cause of the changes we see rather than choosing a treatment based on a trend. The goal is to determine whether the concern is primarily related to muscle activity, muscle tone, skin quality, volume loss, structural support, or a combination of these factors, and then build the treatment plan accordingly.
Can EMFACE be combined with other treatments?
Yes. EMFACE can be combined with many of the aesthetic and wellness treatments offered at Epion. Because EMFACE targets facial muscle tone while supporting skin remodeling, it can be incorporated into a more comprehensive treatment plan that addresses skin quality, collagen loss, facial volume, muscle activity, and overall facial structure.
For patients focused on skin texture, tone, and collagen support, EMFACE may be combined with treatments such as microneedling in Hillsboro or AgeJet. Neuromodulators, including Botox and Xeomin, can be used to address targeted muscle activity and dynamic expression lines, while EMFACE focuses on improving facial muscle tone and supporting a more lifted appearance.
Biostimulatory treatments such as Sculptra in Hillsboro and Radiesse may also be incorporated when collagen loss, structural support, or age-related volume changes are part of the treatment plan. Dermal fillers can be used strategically when facial balancing, contour, or volume restoration is needed.
EMFACE can also play an important role in treatment planning for patients experiencing facial changes during or after weight loss. At Epion, we may incorporate EMFACE into a broader wellness and body treatment plan alongside Emsculpt Neo body contouring in Hillsboro, and Emsella. This allows us to address facial support, muscle conditioning, body composition goals, and pelvic floor health as part of a more comprehensive approach to patient wellness.
There is no single combination that is appropriate for every patient. At Epion, treatments are selected based on your anatomy, areas of concern, and long-term goals. EMFACE may be used on its own or incorporated into a customized plan with other treatments when addressing multiple components of facial aging and wellness.
Is EMFACE worth it?
For the right candidate, EMFACE can provide a measurable, natural-looking lift while improving facial muscle tone and skin firmness without needles, surgery, or downtime. The best results come from selecting the right patient, choosing the appropriate treatment areas, and creating a treatment plan based on the patient’s individual anatomy and goals.
EMFACE is not designed to remove significant excess skin or replace a surgical facelift in patients with advanced facial laxity. It also does not replace treatments such as neuromodulators, dermal fillers, or biostimulators when muscle activity, volume loss, or collagen depletion are contributing to facial aging. Instead, EMFACE addresses a different component of the aging process and can be used alone or as part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan.
At Epion Aesthetics & Wellness, we believe the most important part of any treatment plan is understanding what a treatment can realistically achieve for your face. During your consultation, we evaluate your facial anatomy, areas of concern, and long-term goals before recommending EMFACE or any other aesthetic treatment.
If EMFACE is the right treatment for you, we will build a customized plan based on the areas that will provide the most benefit and the number of treatments appropriate for your starting point. If another treatment or combination of treatments would better address your concerns, we will tell you that too.
Ready to find out whether EMFACE is right for you? Schedule a consultation with our Hillsboro team to create a personalized treatment plan.
Frequently asked questions about EMFACE
Does EMFACE hurt?
Most patients describe EMFACE as a warm, pulsing sensation accompanied by strong facial muscle contractions. Treatment is generally well tolerated, and many patients find the warmth relaxing. The intensity can be adjusted throughout the treatment based on your comfort level.
How many EMFACE sessions do I need?
Most patients at Epion begin with a series of four to eight EMFACE treatments performed over approximately three to eight weeks. The number of treatments recommended depends on your facial anatomy, treatment areas, degree of skin and muscle laxity, and individual goals. Maintenance treatments may be recommended based on your response and long-term treatment plan.
Is there any downtime after EMFACE?
No. EMFACE is non-invasive and requires no scheduled downtime. Most patients return to work, exercise, and normal daily activities immediately after treatment.
How long do EMFACE results last?
EMFACE results continue to develop in the weeks following your treatment series as skin remodeling and muscle conditioning progress. How long results last can vary based on your age, facial anatomy, lifestyle, and individual response to treatment.
Just like many aesthetic treatments, EMFACE is not considered a one-and-done treatment. At Epion, we typically recommend maintenance treatments quarterly or annually, depending on your starting point, treatment response, and long-term goals. Your maintenance plan is customized to help support and extend your results over time.
Can I have EMFACE if I get Botox or fillers?
Yes. EMFACE can be incorporated into a treatment plan that includes neuromodulators such as Botox or Xeomin, dermal fillers, and other aesthetic treatments. Because each treatment targets different components of facial aging, they are often used together. Your provider will recommend appropriate treatment timing based on the procedures included in your plan.
Can EMFACE help with under-eye bags and dark circles?
EMFACE Eyes is designed specifically for the delicate eye area and uses synchronized radiofrequency and HIFES technology to address skin quality and the muscles surrounding the eyes. Treatment may help improve the appearance of under-eye bags, dark circles, fine lines, and crow’s feet while supporting a smoother, more refreshed appearance around the eyes.
Clinical studies have demonstrated measurable improvements in common eye-area concerns following a treatment series. Results vary based on the cause of under-eye changes, which is why we evaluate factors such as skin quality, muscle tone, volume loss, and facial anatomy before recommending EMFACE Eyes.
Can EMFACE help with jaw tension or TMJ symptoms?
EMFACE treatment of the masseter muscles may be appropriate for patients experiencing jaw muscle tension, overactivity, or clenching. The treatment uses targeted muscle stimulation to work with the masseter muscles without needles or injections.
Jaw pain and TMJ-related symptoms can have multiple causes, and EMFACE is not appropriate for every patient or every temporomandibular joint condition. At Epion, we evaluate your symptoms and medical history before determining whether masseter treatment may be appropriate or whether further medical or dental evaluation is recommended.
Can EMFACE help with a double chin?
EMFACE Submentum is designed to treat the area beneath the chin. The specialized applicators combine synchronized radiofrequency and muscle stimulation to improve the appearance of the submental area and support a more defined jawline and neck contour.
The cause of fullness beneath the chin matters. Fat distribution, skin laxity, muscle tone, and facial structure can all contribute to the appearance of a double chin. During your consultation, we evaluate the underlying cause of your concern to determine whether EMFACE Submentum or another treatment option is more appropriate.
References
- Robb CW, Cohen JL, Holden A, McCoy JD, Clark-Loeser L, Levine J. Synchronized RF and HIFES Technology for Clinically Significant Wrinkle Reduction: A Multicenter 3D Evaluation. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12344545/
- Impact of Synchronized Radiofrequency and High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation on Facial Muscles and the Superficial Fascial System in the Midface. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39749931/
- Effect of Synchronized Radiofrequency and High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation (HIFES) of the Upper Face. Dermatologic Surgery, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39888339/
