RESULT Immediate, with full results over one to two months
FREQUENCY Once a year
DOWNTIME Minimal: Mild redness or warmth post-treatment, which typically settles within hours
PAIN None. Topical numbing cream is applied beforehand
In your late thirties or forties, the changes to your skin may be real enough to bother you but not yet severe enough to go under the knife. You may be looking for a treatment that works at a deeper level, without the commitment or recovery time of surgery.
At Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa, we offer Oligio X. It’s a non-surgical skin tightening and lifting treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to rebuild the skin’s structural support from the inside out.
You’ll notice it gradually: a softer jawline, cheeks that sit a little lower, looser skin around the eyes. These changes are the result of how the skin ages at a structural level.
Your skin is held up by two proteins: collagen (the scaffolding that gives skin its firmness) and elastin (the protein that allows it to spring back into shape). From around your late twenties onwards, your body produces less of both. The existing fibres weaken and become more loosely organised. By your late thirties or forties, you may notice sagging skin.
Surgery is usually used to address significant facial laxity. But for those who are not ready for that, radiofrequency (RF) technology is commonly used today as a non-surgical approach for an ageing face.
What is Monopolar Radiofrequency and How Does It Work?
Radiofrequency refers to a form of electromagnetic energy that, when applied to the skin, generates heat within the tissue. Unlike lasers, which work primarily at the surface, RF energy penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin.
In monopolar radiofrequency (RF), a single treatment electrode is used on the skin, with a grounding pad placed elsewhere on the body. This configuration allows the energy to travel through the full depth of the tissue between the two points, rather than simply passing between two surface electrodes. The result is deeper and more even heating of the dermis (the structural layer of the skin, sitting beneath the surface epidermis).
At higher temperatures, from around 55–65°C, stronger collagen denaturation occurs, the body’s wound-healing response is triggered, and collagen and elastin production is stimulated over the following weeks.
This is the mechanism behind the longer-term improvement that patients may notice one to two months after treatment.
A cryogen cooling system runs simultaneously throughout treatment, protecting the skin surface and allowing the practitioner to deliver effective energy levels safely. This underlying technology is the foundation of both Oligio RF and Oligio X.
What is Oligio X?
Oligio X is a non-invasive monopolar radiofrequency medical device approved for non-surgical face lifting and skin tightening. It’s based on the Oligio RF device, developed by WonTech in South Korea. Both devices share the same core RF technology, but Oligio X introduces several significant changes designed to extend the depth of treatment, improve effectiveness, and enhance patient comfort.
How Does Oligio X Work? The GXG Protocol Explained
Oligio X achieves its treatment depth through a proprietary delivery system called the GXG protocol. Rather than delivering radiofrequency energy in a single pass at a single depth, GXG works in three sequential stages, each targeting a different layer of the tissue.
G1 (First Pass): Superficial Warming
The treatment begins with a gentler pass that pre-heats the upper layers of the dermis. This prepares the tissue to receive deeper energy.
X (Second Pass): Deep Heating
The X mode delivers RF energy into the deeper dermis and the subdermal layers below it, designed to reach structures including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system, a fibromuscular layer of tissue that lies beneath the fat and above the muscle, and the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts).
Heating the SMAS layer produces a stronger lifting and contouring effect, causing immediate collagen contraction as well as stimulating new collagen and elastin regeneration.
G2 (Third Pass): Heat-Locking
The treatment is concluded with a second superficial pass that stabilises the temperature in the upper dermis, sealing in the surface-level collagen contraction and completing the treatment uniformly.
This layered approach means Oligio X treats the skin at both the superficial and deep levels within a single session. The enhanced cooling system, which the manufacturer specifies can deliver up to 11 cryogen cooling sprays per RF shot, is designed to allow higher energy settings to be used while keeping the treatment relatively comfortable for the patient.
Oligio X vs Oligio RF: What Has Changed?
Oligio RF remains a well-evidenced treatment for skin tightening and is typically recommended for patients with milder concerns or tighter budgets.
Oligio X builds on that foundation with targeted improvements, particularly for patients dealing with heavier lower-face laxity or more noticeable sagging.
Oligio RF
Oligio X
Technology
Monopolar RF, single-depth heating
Monopolar RF with GXG dual-layer heating
Depth of Penetration
Dermis (superficial skin layers)
Dermis and subdermal layers, including the SMAS
Shots per Treatment
600 shots per area
900 shots per treatment tip
Treatment Duration
Approximately 30 minutes (600 shots)
Approximately 45–60 minutes (900 shots)
Coverage per Tip
One area (face only)
Broader coverage (face and neck)
Lifting Power
Effective for early to moderate laxity
Stronger contouring for heavier lower-face concerns
Cooling
Intelligent cryogen cooling
Up to 11 cryogen sprays per RF shot
Downtime
None
None
Price
From $1,588 nett (first-time, 600 shots, by aesthetic doctor)
$3,200 nett (900 shots)
The right choice depends on the degree of laxity you want to address and your budget. If you’re unsure which option is right for your skin, our doctors are experienced with both devices and can advise you at consultation. Get in touch to arrange a visit.
What Conditions Can Oligio X Treat?
At Bay Aesthetics Clinic, Oligio X is used across the face, neck, and eye area to address the following conditions:
Structural laxity
Softening of the jawline and early jowl formation
Drooping cheeks and deepening nasolabial folds (the lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth)
If the eye area is your primary concern, Bay Clinic also offers a dedicated Oligio RF Eye treatment focused on the upper eyelid, lower eyelid, and under-eye area.
Who is a Good Candidate for Oligio X?
You may be a good candidate for Oligio X if you are:
In your thirties to fifties
Noticing mild to moderate skin laxity on the face, jaw, or neck
Oligio X requires no recovery time, making it practical if your schedule does not allow for downtime after a procedure.
Oligio X is generally not suitable if you:
Are pregnant
Have a cardiac pacemaker or other implanted electronic device
Have metallic implants in the areas to be treated
Have an active skin infection or severe inflammatory skin condition in the treatment area
Have very severe skin laxity where a large amount of excess skin is present (a surgical consultation may be more appropriate)
What to Expect During Your Oligio X Treatment
Consultation and skin preparation. Your doctor reviews your medical history, assesses your skin, and takes baseline photographs. Your skin is then cleansed to remove any makeup, oil, or residue.
Numbing. Topical numbing cream is applied and left on for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure itself.
Treatment. A coupling gel is applied to the skin, and the Oligio X handpiece is moved across the treatment area in controlled pulses. The cooling system activates between shots. You may feel deep warmth or a brief, mild “poking” sensation. Most patients find this manageable throughout.
Duration. A full face and neck treatment (900 shots) takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
Recovery. There is no downtime. Mild redness, warmth, or slight swelling may occur and typically settles within a few hours. Wear sunscreen and avoid prolonged direct sun exposure in the days following treatment.
How Long Do Results Last?
Some tightening may be noticeable immediately after treatment, but improvement may become more visible over the following one to two months. These results typically last nine to 12 months, varying with age, lifestyle, sun exposure, and general skin quality.
How Does Oligio X Compare to Ultherapy PRIME?
Oligio X and Ultherapy PRIME are both non-invasive treatments for skin tightening and lifting, and both are available at Bay Aesthetics Clinic. Here’s how they differ:
Oligio X
Ultherapy PRIME
Technology
Monopolar radiofrequency
Microfocused ultrasound (MFU)
Mechanism
Broad, controlled heating of the dermis and subdermal tissue
Discrete thermal coagulation points at targeted depths
More pronounced lifting of the brow, mid-face, and neck
Downtime
None
None
If you have significant laxity, both treatments may be used to address different layers of tissue. Your doctor will advise whether a combination approach is appropriate at consultation.
Safety, Side Effects and Risks
Oligio X is typically safe when performed by an experienced practitioner following correct protocols.
Side Effect
Typical Duration
Frequency
Temporary redness and warmth
Settles within a few hours
Common
Mild swelling in the treated area
Settles within a few hours
Common
Brief tingling sensation
During or immediately after the procedure
Common
Small blisters or superficial burns
Varies; more likely with inappropriate energy settings or inadequate assessment
Bay Aesthetics Clinic is a clinic located in the Marina Bay Financial Centre, Singapore. All treatments are performed by aesthetic doctors and only devices with US FDA and Singapore HSA clearance are used.
Oligio X treatments are conducted on a one-to-one basis with a doctor, who will recommend a treatment plan based on your individual skin assessment.
Oligio RF was developed in 2022, and Oligio X followed in 2025, introducing engineering changes designed to extend the depth of treatment, improve lifting power, and enhance patient comfort.
How many sessions do I need?
A single session of Oligio X (900 shots) is the standard treatment. Patients may return annually to maintain their results.
When will I see results, and how long do they last?
Some immediate tightening is usually visible on the day of treatment, with the more meaningful improvement developing over one to two months. Results generally last nine to 12 months, though this varies with age, skin quality, lifestyle, and sun exposure.
Is Oligio X painful?
Most patients describe the sensation as deep warmth or a brief mild “poking” feeling with each pulse. Topical numbing cream is applied before treatment, and the device’s cooling system activates between each shot.
Is Oligio X safe for Asian skin?
Unlike laser treatments, RF energy does not target melanin, which means it does not carry the same risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) associated with some laser-based procedures. The Oligio device has also been clinically evaluated in Korean patients (Fitzpatrick types III–IV) with no PIH reported. As with any energy-based treatment, appropriate energy settings and practitioner experience remain important factors in minimising risk.
How is Oligio X different from Ultherapy PRIME?
Oligio X uses radiofrequency to heat the dermis and subdermal tissue broadly, while Ultherapy PRIME uses microfocused ultrasound to create coagulation points at specific depths. Ultherapy PRIME generally produces a more pronounced lifting effect at deeper levels, while Oligio X excels at overall skin tightening. Your doctor can advise at consultation whether one or both treatments are appropriate for your skin.
Can Oligio X be combined with fillers or thread lifts?
In many cases, yes. Oligio X is often combined with dermal fillers (for volume replacement) or thread lifts (for mechanical lifting) as part of a staged treatment plan. As a general principle, Oligio X is performed before fillers or threads, not after. Your doctor will advise on sequencing and timing based on your individual treatment plan.
Who should avoid Oligio X?
Oligio X is generally not suitable during pregnancy, with implanted electronic devices or metallic implants in the treatment area, with active skin infections in the area to be treated, or for patients with very severe skin laxity better suited to a surgical approach.
How do I choose between Oligio RF and Oligio X?
The decision generally comes down to the degree of laxity you want to address and your budget. If your concerns are milder and you are more price-sensitive, Oligio RF starts from $1,588 nett for a first-time treatment of 600 shots by an aesthetic doctor. If you have heavier lower-face laxity, more noticeable jowling, or are looking for more significant lifting results, Oligio X is the stronger option at $3,200 nett for 900 shots. A consultation with a doctor experienced in both devices can help you decide.
With over 10 years of experience in aesthetic treatments, Dr Hoe Ying Min serves as the Medical Director at Bay Aesthetics Clinic. She has extensive hands-on experience in lasers, injectables, body-shaping and skin-rejuvenation procedures, and is known for her careful, personalised approach that aims for natural-looking outcomes.
Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medical Spa is a doctor-led clinic located in the Marina Bay Financial Centre that delivers medical aesthetics and medispa treatments in a calm, professional setting. With a focus on safety, visible results and accessibility, the team uses only US FDA and approved technology, applies a holistic view to beauty and wellness, and avoids hard-selling or pressure tactics.
Open from 11 am daily (until 8 pm Mon-Fri; 6 pm Sat/Sun) and conveniently situated within walking distance of two MRT stations
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B2-12 Marina Bay Link Mall, 8A Marina Boulevard, Marina Bay Financial Center, Singapore 018984
