Shurink Universe and Oligio X are two of the most popular Korean devices for people noticing the first signs of loosening skin. One uses ultrasound, the other radiofrequency. Here is how to choose.
Shurink Universe is a Korean HIFU device that focuses ultrasound deeper, toward the SMAS support layer, for a lifting and contouring effect along the jawline that typically lasts 3–6 months. Oligio X is a Korean monopolar RF device that heats the dermis to tighten skin and improve texture, with results usually lasting about 6–12 months. For early laxity, Shurink suits a softening jawline; Oligio X suits skin that feels thinner or crepey. Many people combine them. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, Shurink Universe starts from ₩149,000 and Oligio X from ₩390,000 for 300 shots, excluding 10% VAT.
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
What counts as early skin laxity?
Early laxity is the stage when the face still has good structure, but you start to notice small changes: a jawline that is less crisp in photos, the first hint of jowls, skin that does not bounce back as quickly, or finer texture and crepiness on the cheeks. For many people this begins in their 30s, though genetics, sun exposure and weight changes all play a part. Our guide on when to start lifting treatments explains the timing in more detail.
At this stage, non-surgical devices can be very effective, because there is still good tissue to tighten and support. The question is which layer needs the most help: the deeper support layer, the skin itself, or both.
Shurink Universe vs Oligio X: the key difference
Shurink Universe uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to create tiny heating points at fixed depths, including the SMAS, the fibrous layer that supports the face. That produces a lifting and contouring effect. Oligio X uses monopolar radiofrequency (RF) to heat a broader volume of the dermis, tightening the skin itself and improving texture.
Both are made in Korea, priced by shots and need little or no downtime. See the Shurink Universe page and the Oligio X page for device details, or the general overview in HIFU vs RF lifting.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Shurink Universe | Oligio X |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | High-intensity focused ultrasound | Monopolar radiofrequency |
| Maker | Classys (Korea) | Wontech (Korea) |
| Main target | SMAS and deeper layers | Dermis |
| Best for | Softening jawline, early jowls, under-chin | Crepey or thinning skin, texture, overall firmness |
| Session time | 20–40 minutes | 30–60 minutes |
| Downtime | None | None to minimal |
| Results last | About 3–6 months | About 6–12 months |
Which is better for early laxity?
Neither is better in every case. A simple way to think about it:
- Choose Shurink Universe if the first changes you notice are along the jawline and lower face: a softer contour, slight heaviness or early jowls. It is quick, comfortable for most people and affordable enough to repeat a few times a year.
- Choose Oligio X if the main change is in the skin itself: less firmness, fine crepiness or uneven texture. RF works across a broader area of the dermis and results usually last longer per session.
- Combine them if you have a bit of both. Using HIFU for the deeper layer and RF for the skin is a common Korean approach, either on the same day or on separate visits.
Your doctor will examine where your laxity sits and recommend one, the other or both. Typical timelines are on the Shurink Universe results and Oligio X results pages.
Who is a good candidate?
Usually a good fit
- Adults in their late 20s to 40s with early laxity
- A slightly softened jawline or the first signs of jowls
- Skin that feels less firm or looks a little crepey
- People who want prevention and maintenance without downtime
Talk to the doctor first
- Very thin faces with little fat (for deep HIFU)
- Pacemakers or implanted electronic devices (for RF)
- Pregnancy, active infection or open wounds
- Moderate to heavy sagging, where stronger options may be needed
What happens on treatment day
- English consultation. A licensed doctor examines your face, explains which layer needs help and agrees the device, shot count and price with you.
- Cleansing and numbing. Numbing cream is applied, usually for around 20–40 minutes depending on the device and area.
- Treatment. Shurink is delivered shot by shot at set depths; Oligio X is delivered in pulses across a marked area with surface cooling. Settings are adjusted to your comfort.
- Soothing and aftercare. The skin is calmed and you receive written aftercare in English.
Comfort: which hurts more?
Both are generally considered comfortable for lifting devices. Shurink Universe can feel like a prickling heat or a dull ache over bony areas such as the jawline. Oligio X feels like pulses of warmth, and many people describe it as gentler than older RF devices. Numbing cream helps with both, and you can ask for energy to be adjusted at any time.
Results also arrive in a similar way. With either device you may notice a fresh, slightly firmer look on the day, but most of the change comes from new collagen forming over the following weeks. With Shurink, the contouring effect usually shows within a few weeks. With Oligio X, texture and firmness tend to improve over one to three months. Because much of this happens after you are home, take photos in the same light before treatment and again at one and three months, so you can judge the change fairly and plan your next session at the right time.
Is it safe? Risks and side effects
Both devices are widely used in Korea and are considered low risk under medical supervision. Common, temporary effects include redness, mild swelling and tenderness for a few hours to a few days. After HIFU, small bruises, welts in a line pattern or temporary numbness can occur uncommonly; rarely, energy placed too deep in thin areas can cause nerve irritation or unwanted fat loss. After RF, small blisters or temporary bumps are uncommon. Tell the doctor about any filler or threads you have, and about any medical conditions or medicines that affect healing or sensation. Contact the clinic promptly if you notice blistering, persistent numbness, weakness or worsening pain.
How much do Shurink Universe and Oligio X cost in Seoul (2026)?
| Plan | Shurink Universe | Oligio X |
|---|---|---|
| 300 shots | ₩149,000 | ₩390,000 |
| 600 shots | ₩259,000 | ₩690,000 |
| 900 shots | ₩349,000 | ₩990,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. HIFU shots and RF shots are not equivalent, so compare by coverage. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026. See Shurink Universe price and Oligio X price.
Over a year, the comparison changes: Shurink is often repeated two or three times, while Oligio X may be repeated once or twice. Our Prevention Package for Your 30s may also be worth a look.
Planning treatment around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Send your dates and concerns via the consultation form so a doctor can suggest a plan before you arrive.
- Avoid your arrival day. Schedule treatment for day two or later.
- Getting here. Dernia is near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
- Combining. If you choose both, ask whether to do them on the same day or on separate days of your trip.
Flying home? Neither treatment leaves wounds, so most people can fly the next day. Skip saunas, jjimjilbang and intense workouts for a day or two, and wear sunscreen daily. See our aftercare guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is HIFU or RF better for early laxity?
It depends on where the laxity is. HIFU such as Shurink works deeper for jawline lift, while RF such as Oligio X tightens the skin itself. Many people benefit from both.
How long do Shurink and Oligio X last?
Shurink Universe results typically last about three to six months, and Oligio X results about six to twelve months.
Can I have both on the same day?
Often yes, since they target different layers. Your doctor decides whether combining suits your skin and how to set each device.
At what age should I start?
Many people start in their 30s when early changes appear, but there is no fixed age. A doctor can tell you whether treatment would help now.
How much do they cost at Dernia?
Shurink Universe starts from ₩149,000 and Oligio X from ₩390,000 for 300 shots, excluding 10% VAT.
Is there downtime?
Usually none. Mild redness or tenderness may last a few hours to a few days.
Starting early lifting in Seoul?
Tell us what you have noticed and your travel dates. A doctor examines your skin in person, explains your options in English and confirms your plan and price first.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.