Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling combines two effective cosmetic procedures that can enhance skin rejuvenation by inducing collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin and remodeling it at a cellular level.

What is RF Microneedling, and How Does It Work?

RF microneedling offers the same benefits as traditional microneedling but with the added technology of insulated needles that deliver RF energy to the skin.

How RF Microneedling Stimulates Collagen Production

RF microneedling triggers the production of collagen, a protein that gives the skin structure and firmness. When microneedles penetrate the skin, they create microscopic injuries, triggering the body’s natural healing response. The body sends new collagen to the injury site to repair the damage.

Combining microneedling with RF energy further enhances the procedure by reaching the skin’s deeper layers. As new collagen forms, the skin appears tighter, smoother, and clearer.

The Role of Radiofrequency Energy in RF Microneedling

Radiofrequency energy provides thermal energy deep into the skin to heat dermal tissues. As a result, it boosts collagen production and tissue coagulation on a deeper level than microneedling alone.

RF energy is also customizable. Your board-certified dermatologist can adjust the temperature and needle depth to effectively treat various skin concerns according to your needs and goals.

RF Microneedling Devices Available at Spring Street Dermatology

The board-certified dermatologists at Spring Street Dermatology are highly trained and experienced in using the following RF microneedling devices:

Secret RF

Secret RF has perfectly spaced 25 or 64 gold-tip needles to effectively deliver energy at varying skin depths. Its unique energy delivery enhances the procedure’s collagen-boosting effects, promoting rapid cell generation without damaging the skin’s surface.

Agnes RF

Agnes RF features nine different needles designed to treat more skin issues than any other microneedling device. In addition to skin tightening, Agnes RF’s innovative technology works to target fat. Along with the device’s skin-tightening effects, Agnes RF can reduce fat for enhanced skin rejuvenation.

What to Expect During and After Your Treatment

RF microneedling typically takes 30 minutes to one hour. What happens during the procedure depends on the device you choose. Numbing cream or local anesthetic injections can help numb the treatment area for a comfortable procedure.

After selecting the appropriate needle and RF energy strength, your dermatologist passes the handheld device over the treatment area to create micro-injuries and kickstart the collagen remodeling process. You may feel light pressure and heat in the targeted area.

RF microneedling treatments typically require little to no downtime. Any side effects should be mild and temporary. There may be mild redness and swelling, but these effects typically resolve within a couple of days. Most patients can return to normal daily activities immediately but should avoid strenuous activities that may impact the treatment area. Patients can apply ice packs to help reduce swelling.

Collagen production takes a few weeks to develop, and improvements occur over the following weeks and months after your procedure. Your skin will continue to heal and renew itself, removing damaged tissue to reveal healthier skin.

For optimal RF microneedling results, your dermatologist may recommend a series of 2-3 treatments spaced about 3-6 months apart.

Addressing Common Myths About RF Microneedling

Don’t let the common misconceptions about RF microneedling stop you from experiencing its many skin-rejuvenating benefits.

Myth: Microneedling hurts.
Despite the use of needles, microneedling is well-tolerated by most patients. You may feel pressure, heat, and mild discomfort during the process, but it shouldn’t be painful. Topical anesthetics can further improve your comfort.

Myth: Microneedling will leave holes in the skin.
The holes the needles create are so tiny that they are invisible to the naked eye. There may be some pinpoint bleeding during the procedure, but the holes usually close within four hours.

Myth: Microneedling can only be used on the face.
RF microneedling is an effective treatment for the face and body, including the neck, arms, and stomach for skin tightening and for the treatment of stretch marks. RF microneedling can improve the skin tone and texture, tighten, and further contour these areas.

Myth: Microneedling at home is the same as it is at a medical practice.
The microneedling RF machines used at Spring Street Dermatology are more advanced than the devices easily purchased online. And choosing a qualified, skilled, and experienced physician is important to ensure the safety and efficacy of the procedure. The right device in the right hands can give you the dramatic results you desire without pain or the risk of complications.

Consider RF Microneedling at our New York City office

As Manhattan’s premier dermatology practice with two New York City offices conveniently located in Soho and Uptown, Spring Street Dermatology provides state-of-the-art care with an individualized approach using the latest advancements in cosmetic and medical dermatology.

Our board-certified physicians understand how the right RF Microneedling device can treat your specific skin concerns. To learn more about the different RF Microneedling treatments and which device is the right one for you, contact Spring Street Dermatology today.