Lifting for Men: Thermage vs Shurink
As more men in Korea and around the world seek non-surgical lifting treatments, Thermage (RF tightening) and Shurink (HIFU lifting) have become two of the most popular options. But men’s skin ages differently than women’s — thicker skin, heavier lower face, stronger facial muscles — which means the ideal lifting method isn’t always obvious.
Here’s how Thermage vs Shurink compare specifically for men.
1. Understanding Male Skin: Why It Matters
Men typically have:
- Thicker skin with more collagen
- Heavier lower face (jaw, chin, jowls)
- Stronger facial muscles, leading to deeper folds
- More sebaceous activity → larger pores, uneven texture
Because of this, men often need:
- Stronger lift in the lower face
- Better contour definition
- Tightening treatments that don’t add bulk or puffiness
This is why choosing the right lifting device is crucial.
2. Shurink (HIFU) for Men — Deep Lifting & Contouring
Shurink uses focused ultrasound to target the SMAS layer — the structural layer that sags with age. This makes it especially effective for men who want sharper contours.
Best Benefits for Men
- Stronger structural lift for heavier lower faces
- Defines jawline and reduces early jowls
- Tightens under-chin sagging without adding volume
- Great for men who want a more “V-line” or sculpted look
Ideal For
- Men in late 20s–40s
- Visible sagging around jawline or jaw heaviness
- Double chin or soft contours
- Men who want natural lift without downtime
Why Men Prefer It
Shurink creates a cleaner, tighter jawline, which aligns with masculine facial goals — sharper angles rather than softening.
3. Thermage (RF) for Men — Firming, Elasticity & Skin Quality
Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen and improving elasticity. The results are subtle but very impactful on masculine skin texture.
Best Benefits for Men
- Tightens loose skin without changing face shape
- Smooths fine lines and enlarged pores
- Improves texture damaged by shaving
- Great for men with thick, sun-exposed skin
- Non-invasive and extremely natural-looking
Ideal For
- Men in their 30s–50s
- Mild to moderate laxity
- Rough skin texture, large pores, early neck lines
- Those wanting firmness without dramatic lifting
Why Men Choose It
Thermage produces firmer, more youthful skin without altering strong facial features — perfect for men who want to look “refreshed,” not “changed.”
4. Thermage vs Shurink: What Men Need Most
For Jawline Definition → Shurink
HIFU reaches deeper layers, allowing for:
- Better contouring
- Reduced heaviness
- Noticeable lift
For Skin Tightening & Texture → Thermage
RF smooths and tightens:
- Crepey skin
- Aging or sun-damaged texture
- Early neck loosening
For Heavy Lower Face → Shurink
Men often accumulate weight around the chin and jawline.
Shurink provides more structure and lift to counteract this.
For Thick Skin & Enlarged Pores → Thermage
RF is excellent for improving:
- Texture
- Elasticity
- Surface firmness
5. Pain Level & Downtime for Men
Men generally tolerate both well, but here’s the difference:
Shurink
- Slight pinch/heat sensation
- Minimal downtime
- Redness for 1–2 hours
Thermage
- Deep warming sensation
- No downtime
- Suitable for men with active schedules
For both treatments, men usually walk out and return to work immediately.
6. Which Lasts Longer?
Shurink
- Lift lasts 9–12 months
- Best when muscles are strong and skin is heavy
Thermage
- Firming lasts 12–18 months
- Especially long-lasting in thicker male skin
7. Should Men Combine Both?
Absolutely — many Korean dermatologists recommend a dual approach for men:
Shurink → for deeper lift
Thermage → for surface tightening
This combination:
- Lifts the lower face
- Improves skin quality
- Sharpens contours
- Maintains elasticity long-term
Perfect for men wanting maximum anti-aging without surgery.
Final Verdict: Thermage vs Shurink for Men
Choose Shurink if you want…
- Jawline definition
- Reduction of jowls
- Stronger lifting power
- A sculpted, contoured lower face
Choose Thermage if you want…
- Firmer, smoother skin
- Better texture and elasticity
- A natural “refreshed” look
- Minimal pain and downtime
Best for Most Men: Combination
Men often need both lifting + tightening because of heavier tissue and stronger muscles.
Shurink reshapes; Thermage refines.





