Radiofrequency microneedling, also known as RF microneedling, is one of the most advanced cosmetic treatments used to address skin imperfections like wrinkles and acne scars. It combines the efficacy of microneedling and radiofrequency energy to give people dramatic aesthetic results. 

Microneedling essentially involves pricking the skin to prompt the body to produce more collagen and elastin. Radiofrequency energy heats the area under the skin, which should also promote the production of collagen. With an RF microneedling device, the two treatments are administered simultaneously. 

Here is everything you need to know about the devices, including their benefits and side effects.

What Does RF Microneedling Involve?

RF microneedling involves using a device to treat wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks, scars from injuries, sagging skin, and hyperpigmentation, among other skin imperfections. The goal is to give patients a more attractive appearance.

The RF microneedling device has needles that cause tiny injuries to the skin to kickstart the body’s natural healing process, which sends more collagen and elastin to the treatment area. The needle also emits RF energy, which further strengthens the body’s natural response to trauma. As the body sends more collagen and elastin to the treatment area, the skin will start looking fuller and more toned.

Ideal Candidate for RF Microneedling

Although RF microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment, not everyone with signs of aging and other skin imperfections qualify for it. 

Ideally, a good candidate for the procedure should:

  • Be in good physical health free of any conditions that could cause poor healing.
  • Have realistic expectations and not aspire to look like someone else.
  • Be a nonsmoker or willing to quit smoking. This is important because smoking can lead to poor healing or even accelerate the process of aging.

Generally, you should not consider having a procedure if:

  • You are receiving radiotherapy or chemotherapy
  • You are pregnant
  • You have recently used Accutane
  • You have a skin disease
  • You are taking anticoagulants

During your initial meeting with your RF microneedling provider, your medical history will be assessed and several tests performed to determine if the treatment is safe for you.

RF Microneedling Risks and Side Effects

Like other cosmetic solutions, it is not without risks. Some of the risks and side effects associated with the treatment include:

  • Skin dryness
  • Skin redness
  • Scaling
  • Itching
  • Bruising
  • Infections
  • Bleeding
  • Persistent swelling
  • Acne flare-ups
  • Allergic reactions to needles

Before you can receive the treatment, you will have the opportunity to discuss these risks with your provider so that you can make an informed decision. If you have any questions, your provider will be happy to listen to you, understand your concerns, and address them accordingly.

Benefits of RF Microneedling

RF Microneedling has many benefits. The most obvious benefits associated with the procedure include:

  • It is effective in minimizing fine lines, pore size, and wrinkles
  • It improves uneven skin tone
  • It improves the appearance of scars
  • It tightens loose, sagging skin
  • It is minimally invasive, meaning that it requires minimal downtime

RF Microneedling FAQs

Is RF Microneedling Painful?

Most patients describe the procedure as painless. Although pricking the skin with a needle can cause some discomfort, your provider will apply a numbing cream to the treatment area to make the session as comfortable as possible. However, you will be advised against the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen since these drugs may interfere with the body’s natural response to trauma, which is needed for it to work as expected.

How Long Do I Need to Wait to See the Results After RF Microneedling?

Unfortunately, microneedling results are not immediate. The treatment itself only triggers the body’s natural healing process, causing your body to send more collagen to the treatment area. This collagen then tightens the skin and makes it look fuller and younger. The natural process of collagen production can take several months. Generally, you will need to wait for three to six months before you can see the full results. Therefore, if you are planning to have RF microneedling in preparation for a given event, you will need to plan with this in mind.

How Much Does RF Microneedling Cost?

The cost of RF microneedling will vary from one case to another, depending on the size of the area that needs to be treated and the provider you choose. Generally, the cost of the procedure will range between $250 and $2100. You will need to talk to your provider to have a more accurate estimate.

How Long Do RF Microneedling Results Last?

RF microneedling is a medium-term solution for skin imperfections such as wrinkles and fine lines. After the treatment, the results will last for about one year, after which the signs of aging will start reappearing. Your provider will give you instructions on what you need to do to keep looking great longer.