FacMus™ — Technology & FAQs
Understand facial muscle stimulation, radiofrequency and what to consider before treatment.
Understanding the technology
1. What is FacMus™?
FacMus™ is a facial aesthetic device that simultaneously delivers electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) and radiofrequency (RF), combining muscle stimulation with controlled tissue heating within a single treatment. Suitability, treatment areas and settings should be assessed by a trained practitioner using the instructions for the specific device.
2. What distinct advantages does this technology provide?
Our SynPrecision technology enables simultaneous and more precise energy distribution across every muscle and skin area.
3. What is NMES?
NMES stands for neuromuscular electrical stimulation. It uses electrical impulses to activate motor nerves and produce muscle contractions. NMES has established applications in rehabilitation and muscle conditioning. Its use for facial aesthetics is a separate application that requires evidence relevant to the face and the particular device.
4. What is EMS?
EMS stands for electrical muscle stimulation. It describes the use of electrical impulses to produce muscle contractions.
In surface stimulation of normally innervated muscles, these contractions are generally produced by activating the nerves supplying the muscles.
They should not automatically be understood as different generations of technology. The waveform, intensity, electrode placement and treatment programme matter more than the abbreviation alone.
5. What is the difference between NMES and EMS?
The terms overlap and are often used to describe closely related treatments. “NMES” emphasises the involvement of nerves and muscles, while “EMS” is a broader term commonly used in commercial descriptions.
6. How has electrical muscle stimulation developed?
Electrical stimulation has a long history in research, rehabilitation and muscle conditioning. Developments have included more precise control of electrical pulses, electrode placement and treatment programmes.
Facial applications have subsequently been investigated, including muscle stimulation on its own and systems combining stimulation with RF. This is a development in applications and treatment design, rather than a simple progression from “NMES” to “EMS”.
The response depends on the device, temperature control, treatment depth and energy delivered.
7. What is radiofrequency, or RF?
RF uses radiofrequency electrical energy to generate heat within tissue. In aesthetic treatments, controlled heating is used with the aim of encouraging tissue remodelling and improving skin firmness.
8. Why combine EMS with RF?
The two technologies have different purposes: EMS produces muscle contractions, while RF provides tissue heating. Combining them offers a way to address muscle-related and skin-related aspects of facial appearance within one treatment approach.
9. Is EMS the same as electromagnetic stimulation?
No. Electrode-based EMS delivers electrical stimulation through contact with the skin. Magnetic stimulation uses a changing magnetic field to induce electrical currents in tissue.
Both can produce muscle contractions, but their delivery methods and device characteristics differ. Research on one should not automatically be applied to the other.
Research and expected results
10. Is there research supporting facial NMES?
Yes. A 2012 randomised controlled study involving 108 women investigated a facial NMES device over 12 weeks. The treatment group showed an average 18.6% increase in the measured thickness of the zygomatic major muscle, alongside self-reported improvements in facial appearance.
11. Does increased muscle thickness prove that the face has been lifted?
Not by itself. Muscle thickness is one measurement; visible lifting, skin laxity, wrinkle appearance and patient satisfaction are different outcomes.
12. What does research show about combining facial electrical stimulation with RF?
Published studies of particular combined systems have reported improvements in measures of facial appearance and skin laxity. Researchers have also investigated changes in muscle thickness and facial tissue position.
The findings are promising, but study design, sample size, follow-up and the device used all affect how confidently the results can be interpreted.
13. Do these studies prove the effectiveness of FacMus™?
While clinical studies provide valuable scientific insight, real-world results with FacMus™ may naturally vary across individual applications.
14. What improvements might be possible?
Facial stimulation and RF treatments are investigated for concerns such as muscle conditioning, skin laxity and the appearance of wrinkles.
The improvement achievable for an individual depends on the device, treatment programme, facial anatomy and the cause of the concern. A consultation should establish which outcomes are realistic.
15. Can treatment fully reverse all signs of facial aging?
Facial aging is a multifaceted process that encompasses changes in the skin, fat pads, muscles, connective tissues, and bone structure. While targeted therapies effectively address skin and muscle tone, a single approach cannot fully correct every underlying factor, such as comprehensive volume loss or structural bone changes.
16. Will everyone achieve the same result?
Response varies between individuals, and some people may notice little visible improvement.
17. When will I see results?
There is no universal timetable. Changes observed immediately after treatment do not necessarily represent a lasting result.
Your practitioner should explain the assessment period supported by the treatment programme and arrange a suitable review.
18. How long can results be expected to last?
Longevity varies based on individual skin dynamics, age, and lifestyle factors. As the natural aging process continues, short-term findings provide useful insight rather than a set timeline. Maintenance protocols are best tailored dynamically using device guidelines and your personal response, ensuring sustainable outcomes over time.
19. Is FacMus™ an alternative to a surgical facelift?
It should not be expected to reproduce the effects of surgery. A facelift can reposition tissues and remove excess skin in ways that a non-invasive device cannot. People with substantial skin laxity may need a different approach to achieve their goals.
20. Is this treatment equivalent to botulinum toxin or dermal fillers?
While all are popular facial enhancement options, they operate on distinct physiological mechanisms. Botulinum toxin temporarily relaxes specific facial muscles, whereas dermal fillers restore volume and structural support. In contrast, this approach utilizes electrical muscle stimulation to induce targeted contractions alongside radiofrequency (RF) energy for controlled deep-tissue heating. Consequently, these represent complementary rather than interchangeable therapies.
Having treatment
21. What does treatment feel like?
Electrical stimulation may feel like rhythmic contractions, pulling or tingling. RF may produce warmth.
Tell your practitioner immediately if you experience burning, sharp pain or uncomfortable heat. Treatment should be adjusted or stopped as appropriate.
22. How long does a session take, and how many sessions will I need?
Session length and the number of treatments depend on the approved programme for the device and the areas being treated.
Your provider should explain the proposed course, appointment intervals, total cost and review arrangements before treatment begins.
23. Is a stronger setting always better?
No. Higher intensity does not automatically mean a better result.
Settings should remain within the device instructions and be selected for the treatment area, electrode contact and your individual tolerance.
24. Is there any downtime or risk?
Non-invasive treatment does not mean risk-free treatment. Electrical stimulation devices can cause irritation, discomfort or burns, and may interfere with implanted electronic devices.
Ask your provider to explain the risks of the specific EMS and RF system, expected recovery and what to do if symptoms persist.
25. Who requires a suitability assessment prior to undergoing treatment?
A comprehensive consultation is recommended for every individual before beginning therapy. To ensure maximum safety and tailored results, please share your complete medical background with your practitioner—including health conditions, current medications, pregnancy or breastfeeding, metallic or electrical implants in the targeted area, sensory variations, active skin concerns, or prior facial treatments. Your provider will evaluate these details alongside the device guidelines to confirm whether the treatment is suitable for you.
26. Can I have treatment with a pacemaker or another implanted electronic device?
Electrical stimulation may interfere with implanted electronic devices, including pacemakers and defibrillators. Do not proceed without review of the device contraindications and appropriate medical advice.
27. What if I have dental implants, fillings or braces?
Tell your practitioner before treatment. The type and location of dental work, the applicator position and the device instructions must be considered. There is no single answer that applies to every dental implant or every EMS and RF system.
28. Can I have treatment after fillers, botulinum toxin, threads or facial surgery?
Your practitioner needs to know the procedure, treatment area and date.
The appropriate interval depends on the procedure and the equipment being used. Your aesthetic practitioner may need to consult the clinician who performed the earlier treatment.
29. Is this treatment suitable for all skin types and facial areas?
Suitability is determined based on specific clinical guidelines and individual skin characteristics rather than a universal assumption. For client safety, applicators must only be applied to designated anatomical areas specified by the manufacturer.
30. Will the treatment remove facial fat?
Muscle stimulation should not be described as a proven facial fat-removal treatment.
31. What should I do before and after treatment?
Follow the preparation and aftercare instructions provided for your treatment.
These should explain skin preparation, products or activities to avoid, expected temporary reactions and when to contact the clinic. Report persistent pain, blistering, marked swelling or unexpected weakness promptly.
Further information
Still have a question?
Contact us through our enquiry form to discuss FacMus™ and request further information.
This information explains the technology and general treatment considerations. It does not replace an individual assessment or the instructions for the device being used. Results vary.
