Radiofrequency microneedling or RF microneedling is today’s modern approach to facial skin rejuvenation. This skin treatment is a controlled skin injury that damages skin yet stimulates the growth of new healthy ones, beneficial towards common skin concerns, such as unwanted acne scars and undesirable wrinkles.
Unlike other treatments like dermabrasion and chemical peels, RF microneedling is minimally invasive. Read until the end to learn five (5) important things about this procedure.
1. What RF Microneedling Is
Microneedling is a skin technology that uses fine needles to create micro-wounds or punctures in the skin. These channels trigger the natural production of collagen, elastin, and capillaries. Some term this procedure as skin needling or collagen induction therapy.
When radiofrequency waves are involved, the treatment is already radiofrequency microneedling. The needles used release radiofrequency into the microchannels and cause additional damage. Consequently, enhancement of the effects is elevated from the standard microneedling, making the skin grow back much thicker and smoother. RF microneedling can target:
- acne scars
- cellulite
- fine lines
- hyperhidrosis
- hyperpigmentation
- loose, sagging skin
- scars from injury or surgery
- stretch marks
- the appearance of large pores
- wrinkles
You can also achieve the effects of radiofrequency microneedling along with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). This procedure draws blood from the patient’s arm and uses a machine to separate the platelets. After the microneedling session, providers inject or apply the platelets to the targeted area. This step maximizes the results you can get from your treatment.
2. Ideal Candidates for RF Microneedling
Although considered safe, RF microneedling is not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates must meet or at least have the following standards:
- are in good health
- have early signs of aging
- possess realistic expectations
Alternatively, prospective patients should avoid this treatment if they have the following:
- are pregnant
- are currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- are taking anticoagulants
- now or recently used Accutane
- have a history of poor wound healing, hypertrophic scarring, or keloids
- have moderate to severe skin diseases like psoriasis
- have a skin infection
- have an active cold sore breakout
3. The Procedure and How RF Microneedling Works
RF Microneedling Procedure
If you’re interested in RF microneedling, you’ll need to discuss everything with your doctor or healthcare provider first.
Before the Procedure
Initial appointments with your provider allowed them to ask about your medical history and desired outcomes. Also, they’ll be taking photos of your face to help determine the most appropriate method for your particular condition and provide instructions and preparation for the RF microneedling procedure. If you are experiencing active acne breakouts, you may need to take oral antibiotics. Having histories of cold sores might require you to take oral antiviral medication.
During the Procedure
Your actual RF microneedling procedure usually occurs in your healthcare provider’s clinic. In general, here’s what you can expect from this treatment:
- Cleaning your skin using alcohol to help prevent infection
- Apply topical anesthetics to the targeted area about an hour before the procedure. Some instances require the injection of local anesthetics that numbs the treated area, making you feel no pain.
- Using the microneedling device to make tiny wounds in the skin. Simultaneously, the needle’s tip releases radiofrequency waves deep into the wounds.
The RF microneedling procedure takes around 10-20 minutes. Depending on the treated area, the exact duration will significantly vary. Healthcare providers apply growth solutions to aid in supporting cell regeneration. Finally, the procedure wraps up with soothing solutions to minimize any discomfort.
After the Procedure
Once you’re done with your RF microneedling procedure, you can go straight home and return to your routine or activities.
How It Works
According to trials and studies, RF microneedling is adequate for most, if not all, skin conditions, most commonly the following:
- Acne scars – moderately improve the appearance of acne scars in 58% of test participants. A small 2017 research found similar results.
- Skin rejuvenation helps improve the look of your skin, significantly reducing wrinkles around the eyes. These effects last longer compared to Botox injections. Recent case reports also claim that the treatment can diminish loose skin on the face. In addition, a 2018 study showed improvement in skin texture and pore size.
- Hyperhidrosis – the RF microneedling procedure can permanently treat hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating, according to a 2019 study. In line with this, a 2013 study showed the treatment reduced the size and number of sweat glands.
4. Expectations: Results and Side Effects
Results
You can start seeing noticeable results after 3-6 months. However, when exactly you’ll see these results will depend on your condition’s type and severity. Most cases require at least four (4) sessions based on your treatment type. These RF microneedling sessions can be administered every 3-8 weeks, allowing your skin to heal between treatments.
After your initial series of treatments, your results are known to last for about a year. Touch-up sessions at least once a year are highly recommended to maintain your achieved desired results.
Potential Side Effects – Are There Any?
Typically, RF microneedling is a well-tolerated procedure. However, like any cosmetic treatment, it may still cause some side effects. Possible after-effects that might last for a few hours or days may include:
- cold sore breakout
- dryness
- itching
- mild acne flare-up
- redness
- scaling
- swelling
Other complications need medical attention. Experiencing any of the following requires immediate help from your doctor:
- allergic reaction to needles
- bruising
- fatigue
- headache
- persisting swelling or redness
- prolonged bleeding
- signs of infection
5. Aftercare
After your RF microneedling procedure, doctors or healthcare providers will explain the aftercare procedures for your skin, including helpful tips. Here are some of the best ways to take care of your skin after your radiofrequency microneedling:
- Apply ice packs to help alleviate instances of swelling and discomfort.
- Wear SPF for the following weeks after the treatment. Skin becomes extra sensitive to the sun during this period.
- Practitioners will give prescribed antibiotic creams or emollients if your doctor deems them necessary.
- Use gentle cleansers after your RF microneedling treatment.
- Refrain from wearing makeup until the following day. After 24 hours, return to your everyday makeup routine and skin care products.
Final Takeaways
Radiofrequency microneedling is used to rejuvenate your skin effectively. Learn from the five (5) essential things discussed today to help you decide if RF microneedling is for you. Consult your doctor or healthcare provider first to know if this treatment works best for your skin concerns.
Do you want to experience radiofrequency microneedling? Our wonderful friends at Go Flawless Now Medical Aesthetics can help you today. Visit them now! https://goflawlessnow.com/
