What Is RF Microneedling?

RF, or radiofrequency microneedling, is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, scarring, and sagging skin.

While traditional microneedling has been utilized for more than 25 years, this latest innovative procedure incorporates radiofrequency energy to aid the rejuvenation process.

Typically, the treatment involves a device with an array of insulated fine needles designed to puncture the top layer of skin, about up to 3 millimeters deep. High-intensity radiofrequency energy is applied in a fractional pattern through microneedles to trigger collagen and elastin production.

A serum with specific nutrients that help to build that new collagen and elastin more quickly can be administered immediately afterward. This results in smoother, firmer, and more even-toned, collagen-rich skin.

What to Expect

The procedure is selectively applied to underlying layers of skin to treat scars and tighten tissue to reduce wrinkles and create a smoother, more youthful appearance, while improving texture and firmness. Needle penetration depth the amount of RF energy can also be modified.

The procedure takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the areas being treated. For best results, prepare to undergo three to four sessions in three- to eight-week intervals, allowing your skin to heal between treatments.

You should begin to see results after three to six months, and they should last about a year. To maintain desired results, it’s recommended to have a touch-up session at least once a year.

Who Can Benefit From Treatment?

RF microneedle treatment is safe for all ages, genders, skin types, and tones, and can be performed on almost any area of the body with wrinkles, discoloration, or acne scarring. The ideal candidate for treatment is young, in relatively good health, and has early signs of aging.

While the procedure is generally considered very safe, there are some risk factors that make it inadvisable for some. People who suffer from skin infections, have a moderate to severe skin disease, or have an active breakout of cold sores should avoid the treatment. Additionally, those who are pregnant, taking anticoagulants, receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy, have a history of keloids, hypertrophic scarring, or poor wound healing should also refrain.

Safe & Effective

RF microneedling is an extremely safe and effective method for treating signs of early aging or skin tissue scarring.

Prior to treatments, you should avoid using alcohol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, and products containing salicylic acid—which can result in bruising.

You should also avoid Accutane (six months prior to treatment), self-tanning lotions, tanning booths or sunbathing (at least two weeks prior to treatment), and brands of blood-thinning medication including Advil, Motrin and Aleve (for one week prior to treatment).

Following treatment, minimal downtime is required, and you can expect only minor side effects, including a degree of discomfort, redness, or irritation. These should be mild and shouldn’t persist for more than 24 hours.