Ultherapy vs. Shurink in Korea: What’s the Difference?

What Are Ultherapy and Shurink?

Ultherapy (울쎄라) is the original HIFU device, developed by Merz in the United States and cleared by the FDA. It works by sending focused ultrasound energy into the SMAS layer, the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts. This stimulates collagen and elastin production, contracts tissue, and creates visible tightening.

What sets Ultherapy apart is its real time imaging system, which allows doctors to actually see the skin layers during treatment and place energy precisely where it is needed. That added accuracy is why many experts consider Ultherapy the gold standard of non surgical lifting, even though it is more expensive and often more painful. Many Korean celebrities choose it for this very reason.

Shurink (슈링크) is Korea’s answer to Ultherapy, made by Classys and approved by the MFDS (the Korean FDA). It uses the same ultrasound lifting technology to deliver energy deep into the skin and stimulate collagen. Shurink has become extremely popular in Korean clinics because it is far more affordable and can be repeated regularly. Many patients treat it as part of a routine beauty plan rather than a once a year procedure.

The newer version, known as Shurink Universe, offers more cartridge options for tailored treatment and the option to combine with skin booster ampoules. It does not have the imaging feature of Ultherapy, but in the hands of experienced doctors, Shurink still achieves reliable tightening results at a fraction of the cost.

Effectiveness

Scientific studies directly comparing Ultherapy and Shurink are rare. One small split face trial in 2015 with 20 patients showed that 65 percent of results looked the same, 17 percent slightly favored a Korean HIFU device, and 18 percent slightly favored Ultherapy. Statistically the effectiveness was the same overall, but patients consistently rated Ultherapy as more painful, about two and a half times higher on average.

Both treatments improve skin firmness and sagging by stimulating collagen and elastin. Ultherapy’s imaging makes energy placement more precise, while Shurink’s strength is its accessibility and repeatability.

Pain and Comfort

Ultherapy is usually described as the more painful option, often requiring stronger numbing or even additional pain management. Patients feel a sharp, deep ache as the ultrasound energy penetrates the SMAS layer. Shurink, on the other hand, is more comfortable for most patients and can often be performed with only light numbing cream.

The higher pain level of Ultherapy can be a drawback, but many patients and doctors see it as a worthwhile trade off because the imaging system provides confidence that the treatment is reaching the right depth.

Longevity of Results

Ultherapy is marketed as lasting twelve months or longer after a single session, while Shurink is often repeated every two to three months as a form of maintenance. However, there is no strong scientific evidence proving that Ultherapy actually lasts much longer than Shurink. The difference is more about how clinics position the treatments and how patients choose to schedule them.

Side Effects

Both treatments can cause temporary redness, swelling, or tenderness. Some patients worry about cheek hollowing or fat loss, but this risk exists with any HIFU device and is not unique to Shurink or Ultherapy. No clinical studies have shown significant differences between the two when it comes to side effects or long term safety.

Price in Seoul

The price gap is one of the most striking differences. Ultherapy typically costs 1,000,000 won or more per session (around 700 to 1,000 USD), while Shurink ranges from 80,000 to 200,000 won per session (around 60 to 150 USD). This nearly tenfold difference explains why Shurink is such a common choice in Korean clinics, even though Ultherapy is seen as the more premium option.

Common Ground and Key Differences

Both Ultherapy and Shurink belong to the same HIFU lifting family. They work on the SMAS layer to trigger collagen production, and both can lead to natural, progressive lifting with downtime limited to mild redness or swelling. They also share similar risks, including the possibility of volume loss in rare cases.

Where they differ is in precision, comfort, and positioning. Ultherapy provides imaging that allows more targeted and confident treatment, which is why many doctors and celebrities choose it despite the higher pain and price. Shurink offers a practical alternative that can be repeated often at low cost, making it attractive for patients who see lifting as part of their regular beauty maintenance.

Final Thoughts

Both Ultherapy and Shurink are effective ways to lift and tighten skin without surgery. The main difference is that Ultherapy offers greater precision and reassurance thanks to its imaging system, while Shurink provides affordable repeat care that fits into Korea’s culture of routine beauty treatments.

If you are trying to decide between the two, the safest move is to visit a clinic that offers English consultation so you fully understand the pros and cons. And if you would like help, reach out to us and we can connect you with trusted, foreigner friendly clinics in Seoul.