Exploring Emface: A Non-Invasive Solution for Under-Eye Concerns

For weeks leading up to my 34th birthday in June, I found myself contemplating under-eye fillers. My under-eye area seemed to need a refresh that topical skincare simply couldn’t provide. As a regular Botox user, the thought of needles didn’t faze me. However, with the recent discussions surrounding fillers—some of which were quite alarming—I decided to pause and explore alternatives. That’s when I received an email inviting me to try Emface Eyes, prompting me to book a series of four appointments.

What is Emface?

Emface is a non-invasive treatment that combines High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation (HIFES) with radiofrequency (RF) technology. According to Dr. Yael Halaas, a plastic surgeon, this innovative device is unique in its ability to address the two primary causes of aging: loss of facial muscle tone and collagen depletion.

So, how does it work? The HIFES component contracts facial muscles using an electromagnetic current, effectively lifting and elevating facial tissue. Meanwhile, the RF technology generates heat, triggering a wound-healing response in the skin, which boosts collagen and elastin production—key proteins that keep our skin youthful and plump.

Benefits of Emface

The benefits of Emface are compelling. Dr. Halaas notes that it creates lift and tightness, restores volume, and reduces fine lines. The treatment employs four different applicators targeting specific facial areas: one for the forehead to lift brows, one for the cheeks to sculpt and add volume, one for the submentum (under the chin) to combat double chin, and now, one specifically for the under-eye area to tackle dark circles and bags.

Cost of Emface

One of the significant downsides to Emface is its cost. Prices can vary based on location and practice, but in a metropolitan setting like Dr. Halaas’s, a series of four treatments can range from $3,000 to $4,000, with a single session averaging around $850.

Longevity of Results

Typically, the results from a series of Emface treatments last about a year. However, individual lifestyle choices and post-treatment skincare routines—like adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and regular sunscreen use—can influence the longevity of the results. Dr. Halaas emphasizes the importance of completing all four sessions, spaced one to two weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. Maintenance sessions may be needed once or twice a year, depending on individual goals.

My Emface Experience

When I first tried Emface in 2023, I was pleasantly surprised by the lift it provided to my brows and the definition it added to my cheekbones. While it didn’t replace Botox for me—since Botox effectively eliminates my forehead lines—Emface softened them, giving my face a refreshed appearance. The results were natural yet noticeable, leaving me looking perky without being overly obvious.

Fast forward to my recent series of Emface Eyes treatments in June. While my dark circles and bags haven’t completely vanished, they are noticeably less pronounced. Even with concealer, my under-eyes, which once appeared shadowy, now require just a quick dab of my trusty Nars Soft Matte Concealer to look significantly less tired. Results typically peak around 90 days post-treatment, so I’m eager to see how my eye area continues to improve.

Treatment Process

One of the standout features of Emface is the speed and ease of the treatment compared to other options like lasers or microneedling. The process begins with your provider cleaning your skin with an alcohol pad to ensure the sticker applicators adhere properly. A grounding pad is then placed on your back. The treatment itself lasts about 20 minutes.

Emface is painless, though it does feel a bit strange—especially during the first session. Each pad emits mild heat, reminiscent of a hot stone massage, and vibrates, causing involuntary twitching of facial muscles. If you’ve ever experienced microcurrent treatments, the sensation is similar but more intense. Unlike other non-invasive treatments, there’s no need for numbing beforehand, and there’s no downtime afterward. My face looked completely normal post-treatment, with only a slight flush that faded within minutes.

Is Emface Worth It?

Emface presents a compelling needle-free alternative to fillers, suitable for all skin tones and types. However, those with metal in their face are not candidates due to the energy released through the grounding applicator. While it may not replace Botox for everyone, it has certainly quenched my interest in under-eye fillers. If you’re seeking a low-risk treatment to address signs of aging and are comfortable with the investment, Emface is worth considering.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Yael Halaas is a double board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York, specializing in facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, as well as non-surgical procedures. She is an international speaker for major aesthetic brands and a clinical investigator for new treatments.

Why Trust Cosmopolitan?

Lauren Balsamo, the beauty director at Cosmopolitan, has over a decade of experience in researching and writing about skincare. She regularly tests and analyzes new cosmetic treatments while collaborating with top dermatologists and aestheticians to assess emerging technologies.