With “Asia’s Limitless Star” as its newest brand ambassador, the beauty clinic chain recently launched Sofwave Precise, which, as its name implies, is a newer, more precise version of the popular “lunchtime-procedure” machine. Powered by the latest ultrasound technology and using a new applicator, it can zero in on previously hard-to-reach areas like the eyes to give you a more youthful and rested appearance.
Text and photos by Alex Y. Vergara
The market is now flooded with so-called “lunchtime-procedure” machines that promise beauty enthusiasts tighter, more defined facial muscles and more improved skin texture using ultrasound, radio frequency, or infrared technology. But very little if any non-invasive machines are devoted specifically to problems around the eye area, including dark under eyes, deep crow’s feet, huge eyebags and that hooded look that could add up to 10 years—or more–to your actual age.
People at Sofwave saw the void and have promptly developed Sofwave Precise. Also classified as a lunchtime beauty procedure, Sofwave Precise, like its predecessor, also uses ultrasound technology. Unlike it though, it can now be easily manipulated for irregular and hard-to-reach areas like the under eyes and eyelids. At the same time, it’s gentle enough to address without damaging thin, delicate skin around the eye area.
But beauty junkies don’t have to go abroad to have their latest beauty fix. The Avignon Clinic has acquired the Sofwave Precise machine, and is so far the only beauty clinic chain offering the one-hour, one-time procedure in the country. The technology behind it as well as its benefits were explained recently at a media launch graced by Singapore-based Wolfgang Kramer, senior vice president of Sofwave Asia, and GMA Sparkle artist and “Asia’s Limitless Star” Julie Anne San Jose.
And to reaffirm that the technology not only works on someone as young as the 30-year-old Julie Anne, more mature women such as broadcast journalist Ces Drilon, chemist and influencer Pinky Tobiano and businesswoman Charmaine Lagman also graced the launch and vouched for Sofwave’s efficacy in addressing their individual beauty concerns.
“Sofwave is a safe, effective treatment for all skin types and colors,” says Wolfgang. Although the technology using ultrasound for aesthetic enhancement is no longer new, Sofwave should not be confused with high-intensity focused ultrasound or HIFU, an older and presumably less effective technology.
Sofwave induces the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, which are building blocks to a more youthful-looking skin and fuller, more contoured face. Unfortunately, as we age, the body becomes less efficient in producing these components.
“Sofwave allows ultrasound to go through the skin’s upper layer, right into the middle of the upper dermis,” Wolfgang explains. “At the right time and through a very precise temperature, it produces in the body a wound-healing cascade, which, in turn, induces the production of more collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid.”
Wolfgang adds that patients can have both eye area and their entire face treated in one session. The regular protocol for Sofwave in treating the face, he says, also includes parts of the forehead and around the eyes. The beauty of the new Sofwave Precise, as its name implies, is the precise treatment it gives on the eyelids, under eyes and browbone.
“With it, there’s more skin you can actually treat because it enables your doctor to go closer to areas that were previously untouched,” he continues. “Precise is just a new addition, a new applicator using the same ultrasound technology. A more precise application also means a safer one. The penetration is just right. It doesn’t diminish the fat underneath or go beyond the bones. It also doesn’t injure any nerves, making it a safer, more effective and long-lasting treatment.”
Julie Anne was convinced to try it after taking to heart that classic adage: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Late nights and wearing makeup for extended hours are among the hazards of the profession for this sought-after singer-actress, and, over time, they can wreak havoc on one’s skin. Being open early on to preventive treatments in her line of work, she says, pays.
“As an entertainer, we need to take care of our skin to maintain that youthful glow. Thanks to Avignon, this technology is now available locally. I’ve tried Sofwave Precise a couple of months ago, and, so far, I’m really loving the results. My skin instantly feels more lifted and tightened. I feel a lot younger,” she adds in a mix of English and Filipino.
She continues, “I really encourage everyone to try it. It’s only once a year. It’s super worth it. We all need it for that youthful glow that would make us comfortable in our own skin.”
Since the machine penetrates deep enough into the middle of the dermis, it also doesn’t burn or damage the skin’s outer layer. It leaves an overall warm sensation on the areas being treated. But if we are to take Julie Anne’s word for it, the procedure is virtually painless.
“I have a very high tolerance when it comes to pain. So, it was like I felt nothing. But so far, I’m really loving the results, and I can’t wait for my next session, which is like next year,” she says.
