This article explains the science behind EXION Face: how monopolar radiofrequency and targeted ultrasound act on the cells that make hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin, what the AI temperature control does, and how to read the manufacturer-reported 224% figure. EXION Face is needle-free and is not a microneedling treatment. Treatment details are on our EXION Face page. If you want the practical side instead (concerns and areas, what a session is like, how many sessions and the results timeline), see EXION Face treatment guide.
Non-invasive skin rejuvenation has moved beyond heat alone toward treatments that work with the skin's own repair processes. EXION Face, made by BTL, pairs monopolar radiofrequency with targeted ultrasound so that the skin is prompted to make more of its own hyaluronic acid rather than having it injected. At Richmond Anti-Aging Clinic (RAAC) in Richmond, BC, treatment plans are overseen by Dr. Charles Jiang, a licensed physician in British Columbia with more than 29 years of clinical experience. Learn more about EXION Face to see how this technology works.
How does Exion work?
EXION Face delivers radiofrequency heat and targeted ultrasound together: the heat warms the dermis, where collagen-producing cells sit, and the ultrasound acts on those cells, which make the skin's own hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin.
The core idea of EXION Face is delivering two distinct energy forms at the same time: monopolar radiofrequency (RF) and targeted ultrasound.
1. Monopolar Radiofrequency (RF)
Radiofrequency energy creates an oscillating electrical current that flows through the skin's layers and generates gentle, even heat in the dermis. This reaches the layer where fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen and elastin production, reside, and creates the controlled warmth that switches them on.
2. Targeted Ultrasound
Delivered alongside the RF, the targeted ultrasound acts on fibroblasts and supports hyaluronic acid production. The two energies are delivered together through one applicator.
3. What the 224% Hyaluronic Acid Figure Refers To
Hyaluronic acid (HA) holds water in the skin and keeps it plump and smooth, and the skin's own supply falls with age. Fillers add HA by injection; EXION Face instead aims to help the skin make more of its own. The 224% figure comes from a clinical study (Duncan) reported by BTL, the manufacturer: skin measured after four treatments showed +224% hyaluronic acid, +47% collagen and +50% elastin. These are manufacturer-reported figures and individual results vary. Book a Consultation to discuss whether EXION Face suits your skin.
What does the AI in Exion actually do?
The AI system continuously reads the skin's impedance and temperature and adjusts energy output so the target temperature is reached and held without overheating, which is meant to keep each pass consistent and comfortable.
Skin impedance (resistance) varies with hydration and temperature. EXION Face addresses this with dynamic impedance AI: it reads impedance and temperature in real time and adjusts the energy to keep the treatment within its target range. For our patients in Richmond, this means the energy is fitted to their skin throughout the session.
What does the research say about Exion?
BTL reports a clinical study (Duncan) in which skin measured after four EXION Face treatments showed increases in hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin. These are manufacturer-reported figures; individual results vary.
- What was measured: In the study reported by BTL, skin measured after four treatments showed +224% hyaluronic acid, +47% collagen and +50% elastin.
- How to read it: These are manufacturer-reported results from a study population, not a prediction for any one person. Your physician will discuss what is realistic for your skin.
- A note on other EXION applicators: BTL's EXION platform has more than one applicator, and some published EXION research concerns applicators other than EXION Face, such as a fractional RF applicator used for scarring and resurfacing. RAAC does not use those applicators; this article describes EXION Face only, which uses no needles.
How does Exion compare with microneedling and older RF devices?
EXION Face is a needle-free treatment: it adds targeted ultrasound and AI temperature control to radiofrequency, while microneedling works through fine needles. A side-by-side with microneedling, CO2 laser, fillers and Emface is in EXION Face treatment guide.
Who is a good candidate for Exion?
EXION Face may suit people with dryness, dullness, fine lines or a mild loss of firmness who prefer a non-needle option. Pregnancy, a pacemaker or metal implants in the area, active skin infection, or recent fillers or threads in the same area need review first. The full candidate checklist is in EXION Face treatment guide.
What happens during an Exion treatment?
A session takes about 10 to 30 minutes with a gentle, warm feel and no needles; slight redness usually fades within hours. Preparation, aftercare, the usual 4-session course and the results timeline are in EXION Face treatment guide.
Why Choose Richmond Anti-Aging Clinic (RAAC)?
Choosing where to receive your EXION Face treatment matters as much as the technology itself. What RAAC offers:
- Physician-Led Care: Dr. Charles Jiang, a licensed physician in British Columbia, provides medical oversight and brings more than 29 years of clinical experience.
- Genuine BTL Equipment: Genuine BTL device and applicators, operated by a trained team under physician oversight.
- Personalized Care: We don't believe in one-size-fits-all. Every treatment plan is built on a detailed skin assessment.
- Multilingual Service: Consultations in English, Mandarin and Cantonese. Book a Consultation today to start your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Exion painful? Most people describe a gentle, warm sensation. No needles are used, and numbing cream is usually not needed. How many sessions will I need? A course is usually 4 sessions, about 1 to 2 weeks apart. Your physician may suggest maintenance sessions afterwards. When will I see results? Some people notice smoother, more hydrated-looking skin during the course. Changes keep developing for up to about 3 months after the last session. Results are not permanent; they are commonly described as lasting around 6 to 12 months, depending on your age, skin and sun exposure. Can Exion be combined with other treatments? Where appropriate, EXION can be combined with other treatments we offer, such as Thermage or Ultherapy, in one plan. If you have recently had fillers, threads or another energy treatment in the same area, tell us first so your physician can plan the timing. Does RAAC offer EXION microneedling or EXION Body? No. RAAC uses the needle-free EXION Face applicator, for the face, around the eyes, the neck and the hands. What is the cost of Exion? The cost depends on the areas treated and the number of sessions in your plan. We do not publish prices online; after your consultation, we give you a quote for the full plan your physician recommends.
Next Steps
The first step is a professional assessment. Our team at Richmond Anti-Aging Clinic (RAAC) is here to help you understand your options and plan a course that fits your skin. Ready to See What Exion Can Do for You? Our medical team at Richmond Anti-Aging Clinic (RAAC) in Richmond is ready to create your personalized treatment plan. Book your consultation today — available in English, Mandarin and Cantonese.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any treatment.
