Lifting for Men: Thermage vs Shurink

December 6, 2025

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.

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