Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure intended to improve and/or treat a range of common skin conditions. Microneedling combined with radiofrequency offers a different wrinkle (pun intended) that boosts the natural efficacy of traditional microneedling. At the end of the day, both types of procedures have been proven to be both safe and effective. The decision by patients and practitioners to opt for one method over the other should be made on a case-by-case basis.
With all of this in mind, today we will be discussing the uses of microneedling with RF by defining the basics of the procedure, listing the primary applications of microneedling with radiofrequency, and finally by reviewing the differences and similarities between microneedling with and without radiofrequency treatment.
What is RF Microneedling?
To define microneedling with radiofrequency, let’s explore each term one at a time.
Microneedling, sometimes also referred to as collagen induction therapy, involves “the insertion of very fine short needles into the skin for the purposes of rejuvenation.” It is common for these needles to be attached to a roller device with needles spread evenly over the surface. Introduced in 1995, microneedling is intended to stimulate natural collagen production in the skin.
Radiofrequency includes “any of the electromagnetic wave frequencies that lie in the range extending from below 3 kilohertz to about 300 gigahertz and that include the frequencies used for communications signals (as for radio and television broadcasting and cell-phone and satellite transmissions) or radar signals.” Many modern cosmetic procedures harness radiofrequency to produce a desired result.
Microneedling with radiofrequency uses both tiny microneedles and radiofrequency to stimulate collagen production, stimulate elastin production, and promote healthy blood flow. This is done with the intention of tightening, toning, and improving the visible appearance of skin.
Primary Applications of Microneedling with Radiofrequency
Appropriately enough, the primary applications of microneedling with RF align nearly 1-1 with both microneedling and radiofrequency skin treatments on their own. Some of the most common applications of microneedling with radiofrequency include:
- Reducing the visible appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Improving the visible appearance of acne scars (in some cases eliminating them altogether)
- Improving elasticity of the skin
- Evening skin tone caused by sun spots or some other causes of discoloration
- Reducing pore size
- Achieving tighter, more youthful skin
Because microneedling with RF has such a wide variety of applications, it can be used for a variety of patients. The procedure is considered very safe when performed by a licensed cosmetic professional. As is the case with many minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, the biggest health risk is patients choosing unlicensed and/or unprofessional practitioners.
Microneedling vs. RF Microneedling
As we mentioned in the introduction, it could be argued that choosing between microneedling with radiofrequency and microneedling without radiofrequency is a toss up. Yet there are a few distinct advantages and disadvantages of each.
The Case for RF Microneedling
Microneedling with radiofrequency combines the best of both worlds when it comes to microneedling and radiofrequency heating. Microneedling is a safe, effective procedure which stimulates natural collagen and elastin growth. Radiofrequency stimulates the same key areas, but does so in a different manner. What this means is that collagen and elastin stimulation doesn’t slow down with the same type of diminishing returns that might be expected with more of the same treatment. Instead, patients are essentially getting two full treatments in one.
The Case for Traditional Microneedling
On the flipside, a compelling case can certainly be made for opting to go with traditional microneedling. The first and most obvious is that microneedling is quite effective on its own. Many patients and practitioners will be able to achieve desirable results without the need for radiofrequency treatments. Additionally, the radiofrequency component may lead to higher levels of pain/recovery, and will almost certainly come with a higher price tag.
All of that being said, the associated discomfort and recovery time for both types of procedures is very minimal, with most patients experiencing little to no pain with the appropriate local anesthetics. There is no wrong choice when deciding between microneedling and microneedling with RF.
The Latest in Microneedling at SCALE 2020
To learn more about cutting edge cosmetic procedures, laser tech, esthetic dermatology and much more, join us from July 22-25, 2020 for our annual Music City Scale Conference! SCALE is the premier multidisciplinary meeting for aesthetic medicine, surgery and dermatology in the United States. Join other industry professionals to discuss industry trends, emerging technologies, and more!
While our list is always expanding, click here to view our current exhibitors and sponsors for 2020. To register, follow this link. We look forward to seeing you this summer for the cosmetics industry event of the year!
2020 Exhibitors & Sponsors
Elite sponsors: Allergan & Galderma
Platinum sponsors: Body by BTL, Crown Aesthetics, Cynosure, Merz Aesthetics, Ortho Dermatologics, Solta Medical
Gold sponsors: AbbVie, Crystal Clear, DefenAge, Evolus, SkinCeuticals, Sun Pharma
