Microneedling Radiofrequency (RF)

Which Skin Conditions Does Microneedling RF Treat?

Microneedling RF is effective for tightening the skin and minimizing imperfections. Your skin texture will also significantly improve, giving you a more radiant and youthful glow. Microneedling RF is an effective treatment for the following concerns:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Sagging skin
• Acne and acne scars
• Skin tone and texture
• Cellulite formation

The microneedling treatment technology uses very fine needles to deliver the necessary energy to precise, predetermined depths.

Instead of working from the outside in, the flow needle technology starts inside the second layer of your skin, the dermis. This is where your skin’s support system lies, including the building blocks of collagen and elastin fibers necessary for skin tightening.

When RF heat energy is delivered at the targeted 60-65° C, collagen growth and hyaluronic acid production are stimulated, and tissue is tightened at precise depths.

Typically, one session for your face lasts about 45 minutes. If you have your neck treated, as well, this adds about another 15 minutes. Treatment for the buttocks is about 45-60 minutes. This highly effective treatment is performed only by our doctors, ensuring that you receive experienced care for your unique needs.

Areas Treated with Microneedling RF

Many parts of your body can be effectively treated with radiofrequency skin treatment. Most of our patients undergo this procedure to address wrinkles, scars, skin laxity, and skin texture on your face.

Infini can also address loose skin on the neck, as well as the “crepey” look from lost volume and hydration. It can be an effective way to rejuvenate your décolletage, another area that frequently shows the effects of aging.

Patients may also undergo radiofrequency microneedling for skin laxity on the arms, scars on the stomach or knee, or cellulite and stretch marks. The variable settings and depths of this device allow any part of your body to be treated safely and effectively.

Safe for All Skin Types

This unique process boasts a lower risk of post-treatment skin pigment changes than other devices. This direct addressing of your dermis – the layer under your skin surface – means that all skin types are excellent candidates for treatment. We often use this treatment on African-American, Asian, or Hispanic patients.

Pain, Downtime, and Side Effects

Patients typically report little discomfort during the procedure. You may experience a mild stinging or tingling sensation as the needles do their job. For those who are averse to needles or want to ensure their comfort during the procedure, a topical numbing agent can be applied to your skin prior to the session.

Side effects are common after the procedure, although they usually are mild and temporary (disappearing within 72 hours). The most common side effects are:

•    Bruising
•    Redness
•    Inflammation
•    Itchiness
•    Sandpaper-like skin texture

There is very little, if any, downtime. The vast majority of our patients go right back to their daily routine following a session.

How Many Treatments are Needed?

The number of treatments depends on several factors, including your treatment goals and the overall condition of your skin. Normally, however, you can expect two to four sessions, each spaced about a month apart.

We can help you design a home treatment program, using professional skincare available right in our office, to help you maintain the health and beauty of your skin between treatment sessions.

If you want to use microneedling RF as a preventative treatment, one session a year should be sufficient. However, if you’re undergoing Microneedling RF for a specific condition like acne scarring, a series of 5-6 treatments may be needed to produce an optimal outcome.

Treatment Guidelines

During your procedure:

• Topical numbing cream will be applied to the area being treated for 30-60 min prior to treatment. In some cases, your doctor may inject lidocaine into the skin in lieu of numbing cream.
• There will be multiple passes made over the treatment area with the handpiece.
• You will feel some slight discomfort similar to a mild sting or snap.

After your procedure:

• A serum, moisturizer, and/or sunscreen may be applied to the treated area after your procedure.
• The sensation of heat/intense sunburn (will subside throughout the day). It is OK to take Tylenol or Ibuprofen.
• Redness and mild swelling will occur immediately after treatment. Swelling typically peaks at 48-72 hours and should subside in 5-7 days. Sleeping with your head slightly elevated at night for the first 3 nights will help minimize swelling.
• You may experience mild crusting of the skin approximately 1-5 days after treatment. Crusts will disappear naturally in approximately 7 days. Soaking the skin in a warm shower for 10-15 minutes and massaging gently with the fingertips can help with the sloughing.
• The use of ice packs (20. min on, 20 min. off) day of the procedure and the following day will help reduce the sensation of heat and help to minimize swelling.
• NO RUBBING, PICKING OR WIPING TREATMENT AREA.
• Gentle cleansing is fine (SkinMedica Gentle Cleanser or Cetaphil Cleanser is recommended).
• Avoid harsh topical products or alcohol-based toners for 2 weeks, otherwise, you may resume your normal skincare regimen as directed by your physician 24 hours after treatment.
• DO NOT use a washcloth or the Clarisonic to cleanse.
• Avoid sun exposure on the day of treatment. Apply sunscreen with Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide and SPF daily (minimum SPF 30). Protect the treated area from the sun both indoors and outdoors (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). *UVA rays will penetrate through windows.
• DO NOT apply make-up until you have peeled or you have been instructed by your physician.
• Follow any additional specific post-treatment instructions from your physician.

Please contact our office if you have any questions or concerns at (858) 943-2113.