Microneedling. It’s one of the most popular minimally invasive treatments for tackling a myriad of modern skin concerns, from skin laxity to sunspots, and fine lines to facial scarring. RF Microneedling is a next-level treatment of a vaguely similar nature that adds controlled radiofrequency energy into the equation.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Microneedling employs a device with a number of ultra-thin sterile needles that press into the skin to produce micro-punctures at the right depth of the dermis with minimal discomfort. These punctures will close and heal within a few hours to a few days. But it is what the micro punctures initiate in the body that makes microneedling such a rejuvenating cosmetic procedure. The tiny punctures stimulate the body’s natural healing response and initiate a higher-than-normal production of collagen and elastin, effectively tightening the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, and acne scarring. When the procedure is in progress, and the micro-holes have been placed, other positive boosters, nutrients, and growth factors can be applied for even more revitalizing results, such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma).
RF Microneedling
RF microneedling adds the element of radiofrequency energy onto the already productive and stimulating microneedling procedure. The energy is delivered via the small needles to further enhance skin tightening, scar, and wrinkle reduction. The amount of radiofrequency energy (which converts into heat energy) can be adjusted to better suit certain skin conditions or certain areas of the body, and the depth of its application can also be adjusted to reach more base layers of the dermis. The heat stimulates further production of collagen and some doctors suggest it is the only way to make the positive effects last.
Traditional microneedling will deliver a positive effect over a few treatments; adding radiofrequency energy reduces the time it takes to see great results and increases the results seen. In RF microneedling, the results are produced faster, are more dramatic, and are longer-lived. RF microneedling is faster and more effective at:
- smoothing wrinkles
- smoothing acne scar
- customization to patient
- addressing the deeper layers of skin
Both procedures are appropriate for all skin types and skin tones, as RF microneedling is “color-blind” — by delivering heat below the skin’s superficial surface, the pigment is protected making this procedure safer with darker skin types, something not possible with CO2 laser resurfacing.
Patients opting for microneedling would require more procedures and would be generally unable to reach the even greater results available with RF microneedling. However, substantial improvement is still possible. Traditional microneedling is good for slower and more subtle rejuvenation. If you are looking for improved results, RF microneedling is recommended for enhancing the overall tone and texture of the skin as it better facilitates the production of collagen and elastin.
