I tested the Lifting and Sculpting Treatment as an alternative to Botox—here are my results after three months.

      As a beauty editor, I have experimented with Botox a few times. I have hooded eyes and low eyebrows, which I personally appreciate. However, I’ve found that when my face is relaxed, I tend to appear somewhat tired or moody, a realization that has become more pronounced with age. Therefore, my goal is to achieve a lift that enhances the appearance of my eyes. The downside is that while I adore the brow-lifting effects of Botox, they only last about three months, and often, I can't rationalize the expense for consistent maintenance. When Sofwave, a treatment favored by celebrities, was introduced a couple of years ago, promising to lift and sculpt the face with results lasting up to a year, I was immediately curious—could it provide a more lasting elevation for my brows? I decided to test it myself, so I went to the Mallucci clinic in London. Continue reading for my candid review and crucial before-and-after images.

      What Is Sofwave?

      "Sofwave is a non-invasive treatment utilizing a specific ultrasound technology—synchronous ultrasound parallel beam (SUPERB)—that stimulates collagen and elastin in the mid-dermis without harming the surface or affecting fat tissue," explains Kerry Herbet, a senior aesthetic practitioner at Mallucci. "Sofwave transmits energy to a precise depth of 1.5mm into the mid-dermis, which houses the majority of collagen and elastin fibers," she indicates.

      Sofwave Benefits

      - Lifts brows and jowls, while also tightening skin around the chin and neck

      - Applicable on various areas of the face and body, including arms, legs, and abdomen

      - Aids in the increase of collagen and elastin

      - No downtime required

      - Non-invasive

      - Instant results can be seen, with full effects visible in 12 weeks

      - Relatively short treatment duration

      - Results typically last around 12 months

      "Sofwave effectively creates a more defined jawline, elevates the eyebrows, and if the cheek area appears sagged or hollow, it can assist in plumping and lifting it," Herbet states. "It's also beneficial for improving crepey skin texture around areas like the arms or legs and post-pregnancy around the belly button," she adds. "A suitable candidate for Sofwave would be someone who feels their skin is sagging near the jowls or wishes to look more lifted and refreshed," she describes. "Depending on how lax the skin is, Sofwave can enhance tightness and provide a smoother appearance."

      If you're considering an alternative to Botox for a brow lift, Sofwave can be an option. "Sofwave and Botox are distinct treatments," says Herbet. "Botox addresses static lines, whereas Sofwave manages dynamic lines and softens their appearance. If a client prefers to avoid injectables, more invasive procedures would be more advantageous. Nevertheless, Sofwave can offer a subtle brow lift," she notes. "Results can typically endure for 1-2 years, influenced by various factors, and maintenance sessions can be scheduled after six months. Some clients may require two sessions based on their concerns and treated body parts," she adds.

      Herbet mentions that most individuals are eligible for Sofwave but pregnant or breastfeeding women should refrain from it. "Most can receive Sofwave, yet eligibility will depend on one's medical history, including current medications," she advises.

      How To Prepare For a Sofwave Treatment

      Herbet suggests discontinuing the use of any active skincare products (like retinoids or exfoliating AHA/BHA acids) a few days beforehand. It's also advisable to avoid injectable treatments two weeks prior, along with any facial treatments that might disrupt the skin barrier (such as chemical peels). "The skin needs to be in good condition, without excessive dryness or irritation from previous procedures," she states. "Ideally, there should be no excessive sun exposure for two weeks prior to minimize skin heat." Before your treatment, your practitioner will apply numbing cream to reduce discomfort.

      What To Expect During a Sofwave Treatment

      Depending on the treatment area, a Sofwave appointment can last approximately two hours (including time for the numbing cream to take effect), though larger areas may take longer. "We capture photos of the area before starting, cleanse the skin, mark the treatment area, and apply a layer of ultrasound gel," Herbet explains. "We then proceed with the treatment, applying the applicator to each section. Post-treatment, we remove the gel, cleanse the skin of any residue, and apply appropriate skincare."

      A common concern regarding Sofwave is the perceived pain level, which was a primary question of mine before the appointment. "Discomfort varies by individual tolerance; however, it can be quite intense, often felt as a hot ache," Herbet describes. Fortunately, there is no downtime afterward, allowing you to carry on with your day as usual.

      My Experience

      I scheduled a Sofwave