The microneedle tip is placed on the epidermis. Microneedles penetrate the tissue. There are numerous settings for depth of treatment. Monopolar or bipolar RF energy is directly applied to the target area. Collagen remodeling and elastin strengthening begin, with effects seen weeks post-treatment.

RF microneedling treatment uses ultrafine needles and heat to penetrate the top layer of the skin and trigger the body’s natural healing process to regenerate new collagen and elastin. The number of passes and penetration to the skin will vary by patient and affect the results seen. The elastin and collagen building typically takes place 4-6 weeks after treatment, with optimal results usually seen at 12 weeks after the last treatment

RF microneedling treatment can treat a wide variety of skin concerns on the face and body, and treats all skin types, anywhere on the body, anytime of year.

The elastin and collagen building typically takes place 4-6 weeks after treatment, with optimal results usually seen at 12 weeks after the last treatment. The number of passes and penetration to the skin will affect the results seen.

Treatment times will vary on patient, area of the body being treated, penetration depth and number of passes, but most RF Microneedling treatments are performed within 1-1.5 hours

Radio frequency microneedling is considered safe, but it isn’t appropriate for everyone.

You may be an ideal candidate if you:

• are in good health
• have early signs of aging
• have realistic expectations

Alternatively, you should avoid the treatment if you:

• currently or recently used Accutane
• have an active cold sore breakout
• have a skin infection
• have a moderate to severe skin disease (like psoriasis)
• are receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• are pregnant
• are taking anticoagulants
• have a history of keloids, hypertrophic scarring, or poor wound healing

If you’re interested in the procedure, you’ll need to meet with a healthcare provider, such as a cosmetic surgeon.

Prior to the procedure

At your initial appointment, your provider will ask questions about your medical history and expectations. They’ll also take photos of your face to determine the best technique for your condition, as well as provide instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.

If you have active acne breakouts, you may be asked to take oral antibiotics. If you have a history of cold sores, you might need to take oral antiviral medication.

During the procedure

Generally, here’s what you can expect:

• A technician cleans your skin with alcohol to prevent infection.
• They apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area about 1 hour before the procedure. In some cases, they might inject a local anesthetic instead. The anesthetic numbs the area so you won’t feel pain.
• The microneedling device makes tiny wounds in the skin. Simultaneously, the tip of the needle releases radiofrequency waves into the wounds.
• The procedure takes 10 to 20 minutes. The exact duration depends on what you’re treating.

After the procedure
You can go home after the treatment and return to your normal activities.

After your procedure, your doctor will explain how to care for your skin. This will include the following aftercare tips:

• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Wear SPF for several weeks after your treatment. Your skin will be extra sensitive to the sun during this time.
• Use antibiotic creams or emollients if your doctor prescribed them.
• Use a gentle cleanser after your treatment.
• Avoid wearing makeup until the next day. After 24 hours, you can return to your normal makeup and skin care routine.

According to research, radio frequency microneedling is effective for many skin conditions.

Radiofrequency microneedling improves skin texture, pore size, wrinkles, sagging skin, scars, stretch marks, acne scars, and skin rejuvenation.

You’ll see results after 3 to 6 months. The exact time frame depends on the type and severity of your condition.

In most cases, you’ll need at least four sessions. This also depends on what you’re treating. For example, if you have moderate acne scars, you’ll need about three or four treatments. Bigger scars might need five treatments.

These sessions will be done every 3 to 8 weeks. This lets your skin heal between treatments.

After the initial set of treatments, the results will last about 1 year. It’s recommended to have a touch-up session once a year to maintain your desired results.

Typically, radio frequency microneedling is well tolerated. But like all cosmetic treatments, it may cause some side effects.

Possible side effects include:

• dryness
• redness
• scaling
• itching
• swelling
• mild acne flare-up
• cold sore breakout

These side effects might last for a few hours or days.