Kim Kardashian just gave followers a glimpse of her latest in-office treatment, sharing on Instagram Stories that she was trying XERF, calling it her “new fave tightening laser” and adding that it “doesn’t even hurt.” While she referred to it as a laser, the treatment is actually something else.
Ahead, we’re breaking down what it is, how it works and whether it’s a fit for your skin goals.
What Is XERF?
While Kardashian referred to the treatment—performed at 7Q Spa—as a laser, XERF is actually a radio frequency-based skin-tightening device. The technology, which has been popular in Korea, is now gaining traction in the U.S.
“Energy-based devices deliver nonablative energy such as radio frequency, ultrasound or infrared energy to create controlled thermal stimulation within the skin,” explains Beverly Hills, CA dermatologist Jacquiline Habashy Hakim, MD. “Unlike lasers, which rely on specific wavelengths of light to target a specific chromophore, these technologies work by gently heating tissue to stimulate collagen remodeling and skin tightening.”
She explains that XERF uses controlled monopolar radio frequency to generate heat beneath the skin’s surface, stimulating collagen without disrupting the top layer.
What Makes XERF Different
According to Dr. Hakim, one key distinction is how the device interacts with facial fat. “It’s designed to selectively engage the fibro-septal network while intentionally avoiding fat,” she says. “This is important, as unwanted fat loss has been reported with some energy-based treatments when energy is delivered too superficially or without proper modulation.”
She also notes that XERF works at two structural levels. “Many energy devices act primarily on a single layer of tissue. XERF targets fibro-septae that extend from the deep dermis into the underlying SMAS layer. By stimulating collagen remodeling at two structural levels, XERF delivers firmer, more natural-looking tightening while preserving facial volume and contour.”
Does XERF Hurt?
Based on Kardashian’s review, discomfort appears minimal. Dr. Hakim says that aligns with the device’s design. "XERF features an integrated cooling system with real-time energy control, allowing effective tightening at depth while protecting the skin’s surface,” she explains. “Patients experience minimal to no discomfort, no downtime, and the treatment can be performed without anesthesia, making it one of the most well-tolerated skin-tightening technologies available today.”
With Kim K’s seal of approval, we have no doubt we’ll be seeing this treatment’s popularity get a boost.
