Everyone wants to attain beauty and blemish-free skin. With science and technology advancing, using science to amplify one’s beauty has become the new trend.
RF microneedling treatment has become quite popular among the youth as it is fast, non-invasive, and provides better results without going under the knife.
Here’s all you need to know about RF microneedling, including its benefits, risk, costs, and procedure.
What is RF Microneedling?
Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure. It uses tiny needles as well as radiofrequency waves to rejuvenate skin, all without causing any damage to the skin. [1]
The microneedling process is non-invasive, safe, and effectively treats most common skin problems.
How exactly does this work?
Microneedling deposits heat energy under the skin when the needle is fully deployed. In other words, a micro-injury is created with the needle, and heat energy is generated at the base of the skin at the time of positioning. This stimulates collagen building (a protein that makes up connective tissues) in the skin. And that results in tighter and taut skin. [2]
RF microneedling helps to:
- Tighten, lift, and plump skin
- Reduce wrinkles
- Shrink pores
- Diminish acne and scars
- Reduce stretch marks
- Improve skin texture disparity (uneven skin tone)
RF Microneedling vs. Traditional Microneedling
Traditional microneedling also uses tiny needles in a special pen-like tool. The needle creates tiny punctures in a controlled manner over the skin. This stimulates collagen production and the natural healing process of the skin, which further results in firmer and smoother skin. [3]
In Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling, radio frequency (RF) energy is added along with the needle. Hence, this technique is thought to be more effective compared to traditional needling.
RF Microneedling Recovery Time
The recovery time of RF microneedling is very short. You can almost immediately resume work and your daily routine within a few hours of treatment.
RF Microneedling Under Eyes
The eyes are the first things people notice. As we age, it is natural for collagen levels to fall. This results in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, visible dark circles, and puffiness under the eyes.
RF microneedling treatment is the safest procedure to de-puff the under-eye area and remove the swelling. This treatment can significantly improve the overall appearance and complexion of your skin.
The treatment could also be quite effective in reducing puffiness and dark circles under the eyes.
RF Microneedling Procedure: What Happens Before, During, and After
The entire procedure is simple and safe. The process starts with a dermatologist asking questions about your medical history and taking photos. This helps to understand your skin type and decide on the technique accordingly.
Before the RF procedure begins, the healthcare professional cleanses the skin and then applies a numbing cream to the area to prevent you from feeling discomfort and pain. After that, the microneedling device is used to make minuscule wounds in the skin, and radiofrequency waves are simultaneously released on the wounds. [2]
The entire procedure usually takes 30-40 mins for numbing and 20-30 mins for the treatment.
You can resume normal activities after RF microneedling treatment by following certain tips to take care of your skin.
- Use of a higher-level SPF sunblock as the skin would become very sensitive after the procedure
- Avoid makeup and any other creams (other than recommended) for a couple of days till the skin settles.
- Apply ice packs in case of swelling or any discomfort.
RF Microneedling Side Effects
There are minimal to no side effects of this procedure. However, some minor side effects include dryness, redness, scaling, itching, swelling, mild acne flare-up, and cold sore breakout. Most of them would subside within a few hours or a day.
For any complications mentioned below, you should seek immediate medical help.
- Any infection
- Continuous swelling or redness
- Prolonged bleeding
- Bruising
- Fatigue and headache
RF Microneedling Devices
Microneedling devices are technological instruments with features like needles, pins, or tips which are inserted into the skin to make small puncture holes. For example, the needles may be attached to a pen-shaped device that can be arranged in certain patterns or a cylinder-like instrument that can be rolled or stamped on the skin.
Microneedling devices are available either with manual operation or automated via motor, depending upon the features.
The devices which need to be operated manually, the needles are always projected on the surface to either roll or stamp to enter into the skin. On the other hand, automated devices come with a motor that can adjust and control the speed and depth of needle penetration into the skin. [4]
The device with RF targets the deeper layer of the skin. The heat energy produced by this device stimulates the production of collagen and elastin which enhances the result.
Bottomline: Microneedling Benefits and Risks
RF microneedling is definitely a game-changer for rejuvenating skin and beauty. It allows one to stay youthful and confident.
However, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional to find out if this procedure is safe and best for you before going ahead with it.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Dayan, E., Chia, C., Burns, A. J., & Theodorou, S. (2019). Adjustable Depth Fractional Radiofrequency Combined With Bipolar Radiofrequency: A Minimally Invasive Combination Treatment for Skin Laxity. Aesthetic surgery journal, 39(Suppl_3), S112–S119. https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjz055
- Weiner S. F. (2019). Radiofrequency Microneedling: Overview of Technology, Advantages, Differences in Devices, Studies, and Indications. Facial plastic surgery clinics of North America, 27(3), 291–303. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fsc.2019.03.002
- Chandrashekar, B. S., Sriram, R., Mysore, R., Bhaskar, S., & Shetty, A. (2014). Evaluation of microneedling fractional radiofrequency device for treatment of acne scars. Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery, 7(2), 93–97. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2077.138328
- Center for Devices and Radiological Health. (2020, November 9). Microneedling Devices. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved August 20, 2022, from https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/aesthetic-cosmetic-devices/microneedling-devices
