Can you improve on a gold standard? When it comes to non-invasive skin lifting, Ultherapy has long held that title—trusted, tested, and beloved by skincare professionals and beauty enthusiasts alike for its ability to deliver surgical-level results without a single incision. But while the technology sure is impressive, one factor has made some hesitate: the fear of pain and discomfort. Though generally well-tolerated, Ultherapy isn’t always a walk in the park—how it feels often depends on your pain threshold and skin profile.
Now imagine a version that’s just as effective, but faster, more precise, and yes, significantly gentler. That’s exactly what Ultherapy PRIME is: a smarter, sleeker evolution of the OG treatment that set the bar.
But First, A Primer
For the uninitiated: Ultherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin—no needles, no scalpels, and no downtime. (Read how it’s different from Sofwave and Thermage here.) It’s the only FDA-cleared procedure that targets the same deep foundational layers addressed in a surgical facelift, helping to stimulate collagen production from within. Over time, this results in a natural-looking lift in key areas like the brows, jawline, neck, and even the chest.
Now, that trusted technology gets a next-gen upgrade with Ultherapy PRIME. This refined version features faster sessions (20 percent quicker, to be exact), a 35 percent larger screen, and enhanced real-time imaging—allowing for more precise, personalized treatments that are also more comfortable.
The science behind it? Still grounded in what made Ultherapy a gold standard, but now sharper and smarter. Ultherapy PRIME uses advanced Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization (MFU-V) to deliver energy at three exact depths (1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm), reaching collagen-rich tissue without damaging the skin’s surface. Thanks to real-time imaging, practitioners can “see” exactly where to treat—ensuring each pulse is placed for maximum effect. These tiny thermal triggers wake up your skin’s natural healing response, boosting collagen and elastin production over time. And with studies showing up to 42% more collagen production, the lift isn’t just visible—it lasts.
Primed for comfort
There’s science—and then there’s the real-life experience. And when it comes to beauty treatments that promise visible results with minimal fuss, Heart Evangelista is the kind of woman people pay attention to. The actress and global fashion icon is back for her second year with Ultherapy PRIME, and it’s easy to see why she’s the perfect fit. At 40, she’s glowing—calm, confident, and totally unbothered by all that “anti-aging” noise. Just like the treatment, she’s all about refined results that actually work.
“It really works for me—no downtime, and it’s not at all painful,” she shares. “I don’t even have to hold anyone’s hand while I’m getting the procedure!”
That wasn’t always the case. According to her longtime dermatologist Dr. Aivee Aguilar-Teo, Heart was nervous about the pain when she first tried Ultherapy in 2009. “She was so scared,” Dr. Teo recalls, before adding that Heart really values maintenance. “Since then, it’s become one of her go-to treatments—something we do every six months, or before a major milestone or big event.”
Now, that beauty routine just got a sleek upgrade. The treatment is faster, more comfortable, and even more convenient. “She doesn’t like putting on emla [a local anaesthetic] because of allergies, and she’s usually rushing to her next commitment,” says Dr. Teo. “With PRIME, it’s gentler and quicker. She can do it and just go.”
For anyone curious but hesitant, Heart offers simple advice: “It’s really about trust. You can’t just walk into a clinic and try everything. You need to build a relationship with your doctor—and that trust makes all the difference.”
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF VANGUARD AESTHETICS OPC/MERZ AESTHETICS®
