Radiofrequency (​​RF) microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and address various dermatological conditions.

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Indications and Uses

 

RF microneedling is indicated for several dermatological conditions, including:

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• Skin Rejuvenation: Improves fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture.

• Acne and Acne Scarring: Effective for non-inflamed to moderately inflamed acne and scarring.

• Pigmentation Issues: Treats conditions like melasma and other skin pigmentation problems.

• Hair Thinning: Useful for promoting hair growth.

• Rosacea and Body Contouring: Also treats rosacea and can be used for body contouring.

• Stretch Marks and Excessive Sweating: Addresses stretch marks and excessive armpit sweating.

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Common Locations Treated

 

RF microneedling can be applied to several areas of the body, including:

 

• Face and Neck

• Eyelids

• Chin

• Scalp

• Body Areas such as arms, thighs, and abdomen

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Contraindications

 

While generally considered safe, individuals with the following conditions should avoid RF microneedling:

 

• Current history of skin cancer, other cancer diseases, or undergoing cancer treatment

• Hemorrhagic disorders, hemostatic dysfunctions, or taking anticoagulants

• Immune disorders (e.g. HIV) or on immunosuppressive therapy

• Moderate to severe or poorly controlled chronic medical diseases (e.g. heart disease, diabetes, epilepsy)

• Implantable medical devices (e.g. pacemaker or a defibrillator)

• Open wound at treatment site

• Herpes simplex infection

• Precancerous warts/moles at treatment site

• Extreme keloid tendencies

• Patients who received gold or metal thread lifting

• Pregnancy & breast feeding

• Sites with acute disease, such as psoriasis, eczema, or chronic rashes

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Pre-treatment Preparation

 

Preparation steps include:

 

• Stop NSAIDS/Blood thinners in the 1 week before the treatment.

• Avoid chemical peels in the 1-6 weeks before the treatment.

• Avoid LED or non-invasive lasers in the 2-3 weeks before the treatment.

• Avoid invasive lasers such as fractional laser in the 6-12 weeks before the treatment.

• Avoid use of Retin A or Retinols in the 1 month before the treatment.

• Sun Protection: Avoid excessive sun exposure and use SPF 30 or higher.

• Antiviral Intake: Take prescribed antiviral medication if necessary.

• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Reduce or stop smoking and alcohol consumption before treatment.

• Prepare skin for procedure with very superficial peels, oxygen-based treatments and facials. Skin that is well conditioned and strong will recover quickly and see maximum benefits.

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Normal Skin Reactions After Treatment

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First 4-6 hours:

 

Sunburn-like erythema and edema, waffle-like marks, and a tingling or burning sensation are normal immediately after treatment.

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These symptoms resolve within 4-6 hours in most cases, but may last for 1-3 or 3-5 days in some cases.

 

The severity and duration of the symptoms can vary from patient to patient depending on the treatment intensity or skin condition.

 

Erythema will last longer with more intensive treatment, and treatment with a deeper needle depth can elicit pinpoint bleeding or bruising.

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2-3 days:

Patients with sebaceous skin, acne, or a tendency for break outs are likely to develop pimples, pustules, or folliculitis within 2 3 days, which ought to naturally subside over time.

 

3-7 days:

Skin exfoliation or flaking may increase, and the skin may feel dry.

 

1-2 weeks:

Skin texture and tone improves.
 

3-4 weeks:

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The appearance of lesions improve.

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Post-treatment Instructions

 

Post-procedure care involves:

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• Treat skin gently over the next several days.

• Apply Ice Packs: As needed to reduce swelling.

• Avoid makeup for 1 day after treatment.

• Avoid alcohol-based or oil-containing cosmetics for 1 week.

• Skin Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser on the skin twice a day.

• Following cleansing, use the prescribed post-care products as directed. Skin should feel comfortable and hydrated.

• Moisturizing: Apply creams to keep the skin hydrated (PRP, skin booster, growth factor, hyaluronic acid, regenerative cream, and/or other moisturizer creams).

• Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of harsh products and direct sunlight for the next 48 hours. Avoid AHA’s, Retin A, vitamin C and anything that may irritate the skin.

• Do use products that contain ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, and Growth Factors

• Avoid direct sun and always use SPF 30+ sunscreen frequently (2-3 times a day).

• Avoid vigorous activity, exercise, swimming, hot baths, and saunas for 1-2 weeks.

 

Overall, RF microneedling offers a versatile solution for various dermatological issues with minimal downtime and is suitable for all skin types.