Treatment Talk: Sofwave vs. Xerf

Where established and emerging technologies fit in today’s treatment landscape

Patients are increasingly asking about different non-invasive skin tightening options, including newer technologies like XERF. When comparing Sofwave vs Xerf, it’s helpful to look beyond marketing and focus on a few core factors: how each technology works, what it’s cleared to treat, and the level of clinical evidence supporting its use.

At Advanced Body & Laser Center, we evaluate every treatment through that lens—prioritizing data, safety, and consistency of outcomes.

Clinical Evidence and Published Data

Sofwave has more than 40 peer-reviewed publications, including biopsy-confirmed increases in collagen and elastin. In one study (Wat et al., 2022), a single treatment was associated with a 68% increase in collagen and a 33% increase in elastin.

For newer technologies such as XERF, publicly available peer-reviewed data is still emerging and may expand over time.

How to Evaluate Skin Tightening Technologies

• FDA clearance for intended use
• Peer-reviewed clinical evidence
• Consistency of real-world outcomes over time

FDA Clearance and Intended Use

• Sofwave holds multiple aesthetic clearances, including lifting and wrinkles.
• XERF is cleared for electrocoagulation and hemostasis (used to control bleeding and coagulate tissue during procedures)

Considerations Around Fat Preservation

Sofwave has no reported fat atrophy events across more than 667,000 treatments. For newer technologies, long-term safety data is still developing.

How Energy Delivery Impacts Outcomes

Collagen remodeling is temperature-dependent, with meaningful changes occurring around 65°C. Sofwave delivers controlled thermal zones with integrated cooling, while RF-based technologies vary in heat delivery.

Sofwave vs Xerf: Side-by-Side Summary

For those who prefer a quick comparison:

What to Ask Before Choosing a Treatment

1. What is the device FDA-cleared to treat?
2. How many peer-reviewed studies support it?
3. Is there biopsy evidence of collagen remodeling?
4. What results should be expected over time?
5. How does it impact underlying tissue?

Sofwave at Advanced Body & Laser Center

At ABLC, we offer Sofwave based on its clinical profile, safety data, and consistency of outcomes. Treatment time varies depending on the treatment area, with minimal downtime. Your treatment provider will provide more details on this during your initial consultation.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.