XERF

Medically reviewed by Dr. Pallas Athena Nadela-Digamon, M.D., AAAM · PRC Licence No. 0136678 · 19 August 2026

Skin that has started to loosen does not always need surgery to firm up. XERF is the non-surgical route, and this page covers what it does, what a session involves, who it suits, and who should not have it.

What is XERF?

XERF is a non-invasive skin-tightening treatment that uses monopolar radiofrequency to firm and lift the skin, without surgery, needles or injections. It reached the Philippine market in March 2026 and is distributed here by SpectruMed Inc. On SpectruMed's national list of treatment providers, One Nadela Medical Group is the only certified XERF provider in Cebu.

At One Nadela, XERF is performed by a doctor.

How does XERF work?

XERF delivers radiofrequency energy into the skin at two frequencies, 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz, to warm the tissue below the surface. Controlled heat at that depth prompts the skin to produce new collagen, the protein that keeps skin firm and that gradually thins with age.

The handpiece offers three treatment depths and ten energy levels, so the settings can be matched to the area being treated. A cooling system runs at the tip of the handpiece throughout the session.

What does XERF treat?

XERF is used on the areas of the face and neck where skin begins to loosen first: around the eyes, across the cheeks, along the jawline and on the neck. It is a treatment for laxity and loss of firmness rather than for pigmentation or texture.

If something else would suit your skin better, we will tell you at your consultation rather than after.

What does a session involve?

A session takes 45 minutes to an hour. Nothing is cut and nothing is injected, so a session leaves no wound to heal.

Most patients feel warmth and some discomfort while the handpiece is working. The depth and energy level are matched to the area being treated and to what you can comfortably tolerate, and the cooling system runs at the tip throughout.

Is there downtime after XERF?

Downtime is minimal. Warmth and temporary redness are common on the day, and some patients have mild swelling, tenderness or sensitivity in the treated area for a short time.

When will I see results?

Because the result depends on new collagen forming, the change builds over the weeks after a session rather than appearing the same day. How much lift and tightening a patient sees varies from person to person, which is why we assess your skin before recommending XERF rather than after.

"You may notice some tightening or a fresher look after treatment, but XERF is really a collagen-building treatment. The more meaningful results develop gradually over the next few weeks to months as your body produces and remodels collagen.

The goal is not to change your face or give you a dramatic overnight lift. We're aiming for firmer, tighter, better-quality skin and a naturally refreshed appearance. Results also vary depending on your age, skin laxity, collagen quality, and treatment plan."

Dr. Pallas Athena Nadela-Digamon

How often is XERF repeated?

Sessions are typically spaced every 6 to 12 months, and a typical course is one to two sessions a year. Your doctor sets the schedule that suits your skin.

Who should not have XERF?

XERF is not suitable for everyone, and we screen for this at your consultation. It is generally not performed on patients with:

• Pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, or other active electronic implants
• Metal implants in or very near the treatment area, depending on the device's own instructions for use
• Pregnancy
• Active infection, open wounds, significant inflammation, or active skin disease in the treatment area
• Known or suspected malignancy in the treatment area
• Any condition listed as a contraindication in the manufacturer's instructions

The minimum age for XERF at One Nadela is 18.

What are the risks and side effects?

The common and expected effects are warmth or heat during the treatment, mild to moderate discomfort, temporary redness, mild swelling or tenderness, and temporary sensitivity in the treated area. Your doctor goes through these with you before you decide.

How much does XERF cost at One Nadela?

Pricing depends on the areas being treated and how many sessions your skin needs, so we confirm it at your consultation rather than publishing a single figure that may not apply to you. Ask us when you book and we will give you the number before you commit to anything.

Where can I get XERF in Cebu?

XERF is performed at our Cebu clinic, on the 2nd Floor of 88th Avenue, Governor M. Cuenco Avenue, Banilad, Cebu City. On SpectruMed's national provider list, One Nadela is the only certified XERF provider in the city.

XERF arrived in Cebu alongside our sixth anniversary. Read the story here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Short answers to what patients ask most before they book.

Is XERF painful?

Most patients feel warmth and mild to moderate discomfort while the handpiece is working. The settings are matched to the area being treated and to what you can comfortably tolerate, and a cooling system runs at the tip of the handpiece throughout the session.

Does XERF involve needles or injections?

No. Nothing is cut and nothing is injected, so a session leaves no wound to heal.

How long does a XERF session take?

45 minutes to an hour.

How soon will I see results from XERF?

The change builds over the weeks after a session rather than appearing the same day, because the result depends on new collagen forming. How much lift and tightening a patient sees varies from person to person.

How often do I need XERF?

Typically every 6 to 12 months, or one to two sessions a year, depending on your skin and your treatment plan.

Is there a minimum age for XERF?

Yes. The minimum age at One Nadela is 18.

Who performs XERF at One Nadela?

XERF is performed by a doctor.

Where is XERF available at One Nadela?

At our Cebu clinic in Banilad. Book a consultation.