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What Is OligioX? Effects, Differences from Other Treatments, and Side Effects Explained

オリジオXとはどんな治療?効果や他の治療との違い・副作用を解説

OligioX is a non-surgical lifting treatment for sagging cheeks, nasolabial folds, and eye wrinkles. Learn about its effects and treatment process.

Contents

What Is OligioX?

OligioX is an advanced Korean treatment device for sagging that uses monopolar RF (monopolar radiofrequency) technology. It directly delivers radiofrequency to areas of concern, such as the cheeks, around the eyes, beside the nose, and beside the mouth, promoting the production of collagen and elastin in the dermis. This may improve sagging and wrinkles and enhance skin quality.

It has become particularly popular in Korea, and the number of clinics introducing it in Japan is rapidly increasing. It is also characterized by being designed for Asian skin types and is known as a treatment suited to Japanese skin.

Who Is OligioX Recommended For?

OligioX is recommended for people who:

  • Are concerned about facial sagging or wrinkles
  • Are concerned about sagging cheeks or jawline
  • Have increasingly noticeable nasolabial folds
  • Are experiencing reduced skin firmness or elasticity
  • Want a smaller-face effect or are concerned about the length of the philtrum, the groove beneath the nose
  • Want a treatment that does not use a scalpel
  • Are looking for a treatment with little downtime

This treatment can produce noticeable effects for people from their 30s who are beginning to feel their skin deteriorate, through people in their 50s and 60s with more pronounced concerns about sagging.

OligioX may also be a good option for people who want a treatment without a scalpel or are looking for a treatment with little downtime. Treatment is completed in a relatively short time, and a major benefit is that its impact on daily life can be minimized.

Features of OligioX

OligioX has unique features that distinguish it from other treatments for sagging skin. Specifically, there are three:

  • Dual-mode system
  • Powerful cooling system
  • Precise energy delivery

Here is a detailed explanation of these key features.

Dual-mode system

OligioX’s most distinctive feature is its use of a treatment method called “dual mode.” Specifically, it combines two modes: G mode (stamp mode) and X mode (slide mode).

G mode (stamp mode) concentrates energy in the upper dermis and promotes collagen production. Because it targets layers close to the skin’s surface, it is effective for improving skin texture and firmness.

X mode (slide mode), on the other hand, targets the deeper dermis and extends to the subcutaneous fat layer, where a stronger lifting effect can be expected.

This dual-mode system enables efficient treatment from the superficial to the deeper layers of the skin. Using the modes according to the condition of the skin and individual concerns allows for a customized treatment. The physician selects the mode and adjusts the output while examining each patient’s skin, which is another major advantage of providing treatment tailored to each individual.

Powerful cooling system

OligioX is equipped with an advanced concentrated cooling system. During treatment, the epidermis is powerfully cooled while thermal energy is efficiently delivered to the dermis at the same time.

Compared with conventional RF devices, this cooling system enables effective treatment while significantly reducing discomfort. Even when high-output energy is delivered, the skin’s surface remains cooled, helping minimize unpleasant pain.

Damage to the epidermis is also reduced, resulting in less downtime and minimal disruption to daily life. This is highly regarded because even people with sensitive skin or low pain tolerance can receive treatment relatively comfortably.

Precise energy delivery

OligioX has advanced functions that enable it to deliver optimal energy while measuring the condition of the skin in real time. Precise control of the radiofrequency energy output and irradiation time achieves both safety and a high level of effectiveness.

By reducing the risk of burns caused by excessive energy exposure while delivering the necessary amount of energy, the treatment can maximize its effects. The handpiece has also been carefully designed to deliver energy accurately to the treatment area.

This enables precise treatment even in small areas such as around the eyes and mouth.

Effects of OligioX

OligioX can be expected to produce several effects, including the following:

  • Lifting effect
  • Improvement of wrinkles and sagging
  • Improved skin quality
  • Shortening effect on the philtrum

Let’s take a closer look at each.

Lifting effect

The effect OligioX is considered most effective for is improving sagging. By acting on the dermis with radiofrequency energy, it promotes the production of collagen and elastin and strengthens the skin’s structure. This produces a lifting effect that raises skin lowered by gravity.

Many people feel an immediate effect, with their skin appearing firmer right after treatment. The cheeks and jawline may also appear more defined. In addition, as collagen is produced over two to three months after treatment, longer-term effects can be expected.

The lifting effect is particularly suitable for sagging around the face line, cheeks, and under the chin, creating a firmer appearance across the face. As a more defined facial contour may also produce a smaller-face effect, it may give the overall appearance a more youthful impression.

Improvement of wrinkles and sagging

OligioX is effective for wrinkles and sagging in various areas of the face. It is particularly effective for nasolabial folds, wrinkles around the eyes, sagging cheeks, and double chins.

Nasolabial folds tend to become more pronounced with age and can be difficult to conceal with makeup. However, as the radiofrequency energy of OligioX promotes collagen production, gradual improvement can be expected. Fine wrinkles around the eyes may also improve through treatment from the dermis.

For sagging, the tightening effect from within the skin may improve sagging in the cheeks, along the face line, and under the chin. Many people appear to experience more noticeable effects after repeated treatments.

Improved skin quality

Improvement in skin texture and feel can also be expected. Radiofrequency energy activates skin metabolism, and the production of new, healthy cells improves skin firmness and radiance.

As fine lines and enlarged pores may also become less noticeable, comprehensive improvement in skin quality can be expected. Promoting skin turnover may also improve dullness and lead to smoother, more even-looking skin.

The effects also vary depending on the mode used. G mode (stamp mode) is particularly effective for improving skin quality. By targeting the upper dermis, it may contribute to improving the texture of the skin’s surface.

Shortening effect on the philtrum

OligioX may also shorten the philtrum, the groove between the nose and upper lip. As the philtrum tends to lengthen with age and can create an older-looking impression, applying OligioX appropriately to this area can produce a lifting effect.

Shortening the philtrum may restore a more youthful impression and improve the appearance of the entire mouth area. Tightening the area from beneath the nose to the mouth can significantly change the overall impression of the face, making it one of the areas where effects may be easier to notice.

Many people support this non-invasive, radiofrequency-based approach because improvement in the philtrum may be expected without relying on cosmetic surgery.

OligioX Treatment Process

Let’s look at how OligioX treatment is actually performed. Although the procedure varies slightly between clinics, treatment generally follows the steps below.

1. Consultation and examination
2. Face washing and cleansing
3. Treatment
4. Aftercare
5. Completion of treatment and next appointment

Here is a detailed explanation of each step.

1. Consultation and examination

First, you will have a consultation with a physician or professional counselor. They will ask about your skin condition, concerns, and goals to determine whether OligioX is an appropriate treatment.

The consultation also includes checking your current skin condition, previous experience with aesthetic medicine, and any allergies. The clinic will also consider whether OligioX is an effective option and whether it should be combined with other treatments.

2. Face washing and cleansing

Before treatment, makeup is removed and the face is washed to create a clean skin surface. Performing treatment on clean skin allows radiofrequency energy to be delivered to the skin more effectively. Removing dirt and oil from the skin’s surface also helps prevent problems during treatment.

3. Treatment

OligioX treatment then begins. After applying a special gel to the treatment area, the physician uses a handpiece to deliver radiofrequency.

Treatment generally proceeds as follows:

  • Irradiation using G mode (stamp mode)
  • Irradiation using X mode (slide mode)
  • Additional irradiation using G mode, if necessary

Treatment time varies depending on the area and condition, but treatment of the entire face generally takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. During treatment, you may feel warmth or mild stimulation, but strong pain is uncommon.

4. Aftercare

Cooling and skincare are performed after treatment to reduce redness and heat in the treatment area and cool the skin down. Moisturizer or serum is applied to protect the skin and support its recovery.

You will also receive instructions on precautions and home care after treatment. You may receive specific advice, such as using sunscreen and refraining from using highly stimulating cosmetics. Follow your physician’s advice to protect your skin after treatment.

5. Completion of treatment and next appointment

A follow-up appointment may be scheduled as needed. Although many people can feel the effects after one OligioX treatment, multiple treatments are recommended for more reliable effects.

Consult with your physician to create a treatment plan suited to your skin condition and goals. In many cases, two to three treatments at intervals of one to three months are recommended. Since the appropriate interval and number of treatments vary from person to person, it is important to follow your physician’s advice.

How OligioX Differs from Other Treatments

Other treatments for sagging and wrinkles besides OligioX include the following:

  • HIFU
  • Thermacool
  • Volnewmer
  • InMode

Here is how each treatment differs.

How It Differs from HIFU

HIFU uses ultrasound, so the type of energy used differs from that of OligioX. HIFU uses ultrasonic energy and can reach the SMAS layer, which covers the facial muscles.

A stronger lifting effect can be expected, but one characteristic is that the treatment is comparatively painful. Treatment is generally recommended once every three to six months, and the effects last approximately six months to one year.

HIFU may be suitable for people seeking a stronger lifting effect, while OligioX may be suitable for people seeking a less painful treatment or improvement in skin quality at the same time.

How It Differs from Thermacool

Thermacool also uses RF (radiofrequency), but differs from OligioX in its irradiation method and cooling system, among other aspects.

Thermacool is characterized by focused RF irradiation at a single point and provides a powerful approach to deeper layers. However, it tends to be somewhat painful, and the number of irradiations may be limited. The initial cost also tends to be higher.

Both treatments use radiofrequency, but Thermacool focuses intensively on deeper layers, whereas OligioX can target a wider range from superficial to deeper layers.

How It Differs from Volnewmer

Volnewmer is also a treatment device for sagging that uses RF (radiofrequency), but differs from OligioX in that it uses a technology called multipolar RF.

Volnewmer delivers current using multiple electrodes and is characterized by relatively gentle effects. It causes little pain and almost no downtime, making it suitable as a first radiofrequency treatment.

Volnewmer may be suitable for people seeking gentle effects and almost no downtime, while OligioX may be suitable for those seeking more noticeable effects.

How It Differs from InMode

Both InMode and OligioX are aesthetic devices intended to address sagging and tighten the skin, but they differ in the technology used and their effects.

InMode combines RF (radiofrequency) with suction and is characterized by addressing fat reduction and tightening at the same time. OligioX, on the other hand, directly delivers radiofrequency to promote the production of collagen and elastin in the dermis. This may improve sagging and wrinkles and enhance skin quality.

InMode is effective for targeting the fat layer, while OligioX is considered more likely to produce lifting and firmness by targeting the dermis.

Side Effects and Downtime of OligioX

Although OligioX is an attractive treatment with effects that can be expected, it does not mean that there are no side effects or downtime. Depending on your health condition, treatment itself may also be unsuitable. Here is a detailed explanation of the relevant side effects and downtime.

Side effects

Temporary side effects that may occur after OligioX treatment include redness in the treatment area immediately after treatment and for several hours. This usually disappears within several hours to one day, so there is generally no need for major concern. Mild swelling may also occur depending on the treatment area, but this usually subsides within one to two days.

A sensation of heat may remain in the treatment area after treatment. This temporary warmth gradually subsides over time. Some people may also experience mild pain or discomfort after treatment, but in many cases this improves within several days and does not become a long-term problem.

Downtime

OligioX generally has relatively short downtime, but results vary from person to person. The following downtime may generally occur:

  • Makeup: In many cases, makeup is possible from the evening of the day of treatment
  • Face washing: You can usually wash your face gently from the evening of the day of treatment
  • Bathing: Avoid hot baths and saunas on the day of treatment; from the following day, they are often permitted
  • Exercise: It is better to avoid strenuous exercise on the day of treatment and the following day
  • Daily life: You can generally return to daily activities immediately after treatment, but avoid using highly stimulating skincare products on the day of treatment

You can generally return to daily activities immediately after treatment. However, avoid strenuous exercise and highly stimulating skincare products on the day of treatment.

Post-treatment care

Aftercare is also important to maximize the effects of treatment and minimize side effects. First, because the skin tends to become dry after treatment, it is important to moisturize thoroughly. Use highly moisturizing lotion, serum, cream, and similar products to maintain the skin’s moisture balance.

It is also necessary to apply sunscreen thoroughly and take comprehensive measures against UV exposure. UV rays not only accelerate skin aging but may also damage the skin after treatment, so always take precautions when going outdoors.

Who Cannot Receive Treatment

OligioX can be safely performed on most people, but there are several contraindications. Specifically:

  • People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • People with implanted medical electronic devices, such as a pacemaker
  • People with metal bolts, plates, or similar devices implanted in the treatment area
  • People with severe skin disorders
  • People with a history of epilepsy
  • People with blood-clotting disorders
  • People with severe diabetes

Even if none of the above applies, treatment may still be unsuitable. Please consult a physician for details.

Frequently Asked Questions About OligioX

Here are some frequently asked questions about OligioX. If you are considering treatment, please use this information as a reference.

Does it hurt?

Because OligioX uses a powerful cooling system, many patients describe the sensation as ranging from “warmth” to “mild stinging,” making it characteristically low in pain.

However, pain perception varies from person to person, and people who are sensitive to pain may experience some discomfort. Pain may be more noticeable during high-output treatment or in areas close to the bone, such as the forehead or above the cheekbones.

If you are sensitive to pain, consult your physician about adjusting the output.

When can I expect to see results?

Many people feel increased firmness and a tightening effect immediately after treatment. This is due to the immediate contraction of tissue caused by radiofrequency. However, the main effects gradually appear over two to four weeks after treatment.

Although results vary from person to person, the maximum effect is often said to appear around two to three months after treatment. The extent to which results are felt varies among individuals and also depends on age, skin condition, lifestyle, and other factors.

How long do the effects last?

Results vary from person to person, but they are generally said to last approximately three to six months. The duration varies depending on lifestyle, skin type, and other factors.

Appropriate skincare, including UV protection and moisturizing care, can help maintain the effects for longer. Improving lifestyle habits is also important, as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and insufficient sleep can shorten the duration of the effects.

If you want to maintain the effects for longer, maintenance treatment every three to four months is recommended.

How many treatments are needed to see results?

Some people notice effects after one treatment, but two to three treatments are recommended for more reliable and long-lasting effects. Receiving multiple treatments at intervals of one to two months after the initial treatment allows the effects to build.

The optimal number and interval of treatments vary from person to person. It is best to decide them in consultation with your physician.

When can I apply makeup?

In many cases, makeup can be applied from the evening of the day of treatment. However, instructions may vary between clinics, so be sure to follow your physician’s instructions.

Because the skin may be sensitive immediately after treatment, it is advisable to start with makeup that is less irritating, such as mineral makeup. When applying makeup base or foundation, apply it gently without rubbing the skin.

Can it be combined with other treatments?

OligioX can be combined with other aesthetic treatments. Examples of combinations that work particularly well include:

  • HIFU: Adding an approach to deeper layers may enhance the effects
  • Thread lift: A synergistic effect may be expected when combined with the lifting effect of threads
  • Botox: Combining it with the effect of reducing facial muscle movement may provide more comprehensive rejuvenation
  • Hyaluronic acid injections: Combining it with hyaluronic acid injections may produce a three-dimensional rejuvenating effect

However, it is important to follow your physician’s instructions regarding the timing and order of combined treatments.

Improve Sagging with OligioX

OligioX is appealing because it can lift the skin without incisions, involves little downtime, and can improve skin quality at the same time. It can address a wide range of concerns, from preventive care to moderately advanced sagging, and is a treatment recommended regardless of age.

When considering treatment, choose a clinic you can trust. We recommend developing a treatment plan suited to your skin condition and goals through careful consultation with a physician. Why not work toward preventing and improving skin aging through OligioX treatment?

Oligio Price list

Oligio KISS

Both Cheeks (300 shots) 1 session
88,000 JPY
Both Cheeks (300 shots) 3 session
60,000 JPY / session
Full Face (500 shots) 1 session
132,000 JPY
Full Face (500 shots) 3 session
99,000 JPY / session

※Implementation Clinics: Funabashi Clinic

・Additional Oligio Shots (100 shots): ¥20,000
・Philtrum Shortening (30 shots): ¥16,500

Medical HIFU

Both Cheeks (300 shots) 1 session
29,000 JPY
Full Face (500 shots) 1 session
49,000 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Funabashi Clinic

Linear HIFU

Both Cheeks or Under Chin(200shots) 1 session
22,000 JPY
Both Cheeks and Under Chin(300shots) 1 session
29,000 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Funabashi Clinic

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Medically reviewed by

Masao Hayashi

Masao Hayashi

Career

  • 2017 Graduated from Tokyo Medical University
  • 2019 Joined the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tokyo Medical University
  • 2021 Aesthetic Surgery and Dermatology in Tokyo
  • 2023 THE CLINIC
  • 2024 LIVELY CLINIC