Quick answer: Thermage alone tightens loose skin with radiofrequency heat and builds collagen. Thermage and Rejuran combined adds polynucleotide (PN) injections that repair and strengthen thin, tired skin. Choose Thermage alone for laxity with healthy skin quality, and the combination for laxity plus thin, dry or damaged skin, fine lines and enlarged pores.
Key takeaways
- Thermage uses heat to tighten; Rejuran uses PN injections to repair.
- Thermage improves firmness; Rejuran improves skin quality and texture.
- Together they target structure and surface health at the same time.
- Rejuran usually needs a series of sessions; Thermage usually one per year.
- Rejuran causes small bumps for a day or two; Thermage has little downtime.
What does Thermage do on its own?
Thermage FLX is a monopolar radiofrequency treatment made by Solta Medical. It heats the deep dermis evenly so collagen fibres contract and new collagen forms over two to six months. The result is firmer, tighter skin along the jawline, cheeks and around the eyes. One session usually lasts about a year, and downtime is minimal.
What does Rejuran add?
Rejuran is a skin booster made by PharmaResearch in Korea. It contains polynucleotides (PN) taken from salmon DNA. Small amounts are injected into the skin to support the repair of damaged tissue and improve elasticity, hydration and texture. It is often chosen for thin skin, fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores and skin that looks tired or sensitive. Rejuran is approved by Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
How do the two plans compare?
- Main goal: Thermage alone tightens; the combination tightens and repairs.
- Method: Thermage uses RF energy; Rejuran uses injections.
- Sessions: Thermage usually once a year; Rejuran often 2 to 4 sessions a few weeks apart.
- Downtime: Thermage mild redness; Rejuran small bumps and possible bruises for one to three days.
- Best for: Thermage alone for laxity; the combination for laxity with thin or damaged skin.
Who is Thermage alone best for?
Thermage alone suits people whose main concern is loose skin, a softer jawline or hooded eyelids, and whose skin is otherwise healthy, with good thickness and texture. If your skin feels firm and smooth but has started to drop slightly, one RF session may give the change you want.
Who benefits from adding Rejuran?
Adding Rejuran helps when laxity comes with thin, dry or sensitive skin, crepey texture, fine lines, enlarged pores or old acne marks. Thermage tightens the structure, and Rejuran supports healthier skin on top. Many people in Korea use this pairing to look firmer and also more rested and even.
How are they timed?
They can be done on the same day or on separate days. When done together, doctors usually perform Thermage first and Rejuran afterwards, so the injections are not affected by heat. Others start Rejuran first and add Thermage a few weeks later. For visitors with limited time, a same-day plan is common, with later Rejuran sessions at home if available or on the next trip.
What is the downtime?
After Thermage, skin may look pink for a few hours. After Rejuran, small raised bumps appear at the injection points and usually settle within a day or two. Small bruises can last a few days. Most people can go out the next day, and makeup is usually fine after 24 hours.
Is it safe?
Both are widely used and safe when performed by trained doctors with genuine products and tips. Rare risks include burns or blisters from RF, and infection or lumps from injections. Tell your doctor if you have a fish allergy, as Rejuran comes from salmon DNA, and mention any recent fillers or threads.
How to decide
Korea treated about 2.01 million foreign patients in 2025, and around 63% came for dermatology, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Combinations of lifting and skin boosters are very popular. If your concern is laxity only, Thermage alone may be enough. If skin quality also bothers you, adding Rejuran often gives a more complete result.
Frequently asked questions
Can Rejuran replace Thermage?
No. Rejuran improves skin quality but does not tighten loose skin like RF.
Does Rejuran hurt?
Numbing cream is used. Most people feel stinging during injections that settles quickly.
How many Rejuran sessions do I need?
Often two to four sessions, two to four weeks apart, then maintenance.
Can I fly after both treatments?
Yes. Most visitors can fly the next day.
Sources
- Ministry of Health and Welfare, Republic of Korea – 2025 foreign patient statistics (press release, 2026).
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration – 510(k) premarket notification database (Thermage).
- Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Republic of Korea – medical device approval information (Rejuran).
- Solta Medical – Thermage FLX product information; PharmaResearch – Rejuran product information.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Results vary between individuals. Please consult a qualified physician before any treatment.
