Evoke: What You Need to Know

Pros:

• Evoke facial remodeling treatments are entirely noninvasive, with no needles or incisions required.
• Its hands-free applicators are designed to provide consistent, auto-regulated temperatures, ensuring that treatment is effective without being overly aggressive. Any side effects like redness and skin sensitivity are typically mild and brief.
• An Evoke face treatment takes just 20 to 45 minutes. “This can be a great lunchtime procedure,” says Dr. Halaas.
• The treatment comes with no downtime, so you’ll be able to go back to work or other normal activities immediately after your session.
• It’s suitable for all skin tones, with no risk of hyperpigmentation for people of any skin type.
• Evoke complements other procedures nicely. A lot of people pair Evoke treatment with injectables like filler and Botox (and of course, high-quality skincare) for full facial rejuvenation.

Cons:

• Unlike some more powerful energy-based treatment options, results from a single treatment can be subtle. Dr. Halaas recommends three to six weekly treatments for best results.
• Results aren’t permanent, and maintenance treatments are recommended as often as every three months.
• While the per-treatment cost is significantly less than surgery, having multiple treatments over time can add up.

Prices vary by location and provider, but on average, you can expect to pay about $2,000 for a package of three Evoke treatments for either the face or the neck. 

A combination package of three treatments targeting both the face and the neck could cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000.

According to a recent article in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, ideal candidates for Evoke treatment have mild excess fat and mild to moderate skin laxity in the lower face and submental area (under the chin). 

During your initial consultation, your provider should determine whether your end goal is skin tightening, fat reduction, or both, so they can adjust the temperature settings and plan your treatment time accordingly.

You may not be a good candidate for Evoke if you have  an active skin condition in the treatment area, or if you have a history of keloids, diseases triggered by heat, or very dry skin.

If you have recent hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, laser resurfacing, chemical peeling, a facial implant, or a metal dental implant in the treatment area, tell your provider prior to your treatment. Also mention if you’ve taken Accutane (Isotretinoin) within the past 6 months.

Evoke and Morpheus8 are both facial rejuvenation treatments that harness the collagen-boosting benefits of radiofrequency energy, but Morpheus8 delivers its RF energy via microneedling, which creates microinjuries in the skin’s surface. A provider methodically moves the handpiece across the skin, and results can be very dependent on their choice of settings and technique. This RF microneedling procedure remodels the deeper facial tissues and tightens skin, but it also resurfaces it, addressing concerns such as acne scars, stretch marks, and fine lines.

Evoke treatments don’t break the skin at all, so if you’re wary of needles, you might prefer it.

At least 3 and up to 6 treatments, spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart, are recommended for  optimal results. 

The collagen-boosting effects do fade over time, so maintenance treatments as often as every 3 months are also recommended.

When you get to your provider’s office for your Evoke treatment, you won’t need to wait for any numbing cream to kick in because the device is so gentle. “The process should be entirely painless and feels like a warm sensation,” says Dr. Halaas. 

Treatment can last anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the goal. “For instance, if fat reduction is desired, then the treatment will last closer to 45 minutes,” says Dr. Halaas. Skin tightening takes less time.

Because you’re just sitting with the hands-free device on your face or chin, you can hang out watching TV, scrolling through your phone, or answering emails while your Evoke treatment is taking place. 

Once it’s done, you can go on with your day and resume all your normal activities. 

Your skin may be a bit flushed or swollen for a few hours, but nothing particularly noticeable that will make you want to hide out for the rest of the day.

Evoke treatment requires no downtime. As soon as your appointment is over, you can live your life as normal—go back to the office, take a workout class, or get ready for date night. The only difference you might see in your skin is mild flushing and swelling, which usually resolves in a day or so.

The benefits of Evoke become most noticeable by about three months after your third treatment. “Expect to see the results of the treatment three months from the last procedure, as collagen stimulation requires time to produce a result,” says Dr. Halaas.

“Evoke is resetting the aging clock, so you will have a younger appearance to your skin and, if desired, some fat reduction as well,” says Dr. Halaas. “You will continue to age after the treatments, but from a ‘better’ standpoint because you will now be starting with a younger, improved appearance.” 

You can maintain optimal results by booking touch-up sessions several times a year. Work with your provider to create a treatment plan that will help you reach your aesthetic goals.