Radiofrequency microneedling is a cosmetic procedure. It uses tiny needles and radiofrequency waves to rejuvenate facial skin. The treatment is a form of controlled skin injury. The damage stimulates the growth of healthy new skin, which can benefit common skin issues like acne scars, scars, skin laxity, stretch marks, and wrinkles.

Traditional microneedling provides a boost in collagen production, RF microneedling amplifies the process as well as aid in healing time. Heat created by the added RF energy also works to constrict underlying skin layers, helping to further smooth out even the most severe lines and wrinkles.

There are some things you should know about the side effects after treatment and the steps you’ll need to take to keep your skin healthy. Below are five things to expect after the RF microneedling treatment. Redness is normal After any RF microneedling treatment, redness is a very common and normal side effect. The radiofrequency energy used during the RF microneedling treatment generates heat, which commonly causes redness and a sensation that may be similar to a sunburn. These side effects should quickly subside; most patients will find that redness lasts no longer than a few hours or a day at most. Ensuring that you are properly hydrating will also help redness dissipate quickly. Switch Up Your Skincare Routine If you are considering RF microneedling, you likely have already incorporated anti-aging skincare products into your normal routine. Some ingredients, such as exfoliants, hayaluronic acid, or retinols, can be too harsh after microneedling. Stick with hydrating products and gentle formulas for 3-4 days after your treatment. Gentle moisturizing along with SPF protection is especially important after microneedling, as your skin will be particularly sensitive to sun exposure. Some Pinpoint Bleeding or Bruising May Occur Since needles are inserted into the skin during treatment, you may see some pinpoint bleeding. The treatment itself should be comfortable thanks to topical numbing agents that are applied before the procedure, but you may still see some small areas of bleeding after the treatment which will resolve immediately after the procedure. In less common instances, you may also see small areas of bruising as well that that will subside within two days at most. You May See Shedding RF microneedling can resurface the skin, meaning that some peeling or shedding is normal through the recovery period. This is a good sign that cell turnover is occurring, and new skin cells are growing. However, as your skin sheds, you will likely notice a duller or flakier appearance. A sensation of dryness or tightness is also normal. This process should last only a few days. Some people will not see shedding, that does not mean that your treatment isn't working. Your Skin Will Glow After the healing period is complete, your skin appearance will improve, almost glow, from your treatment. This usually occurs after about five days. You will notice smoother and more luminous skin, likely with softer lines and wrinkles. Most patients have multiple treatment sessions to reach their ideal results, so you can expect this to improve over time as you receive more treatments. Even as your skin appears healthier, remember that it is still important to keep up with moisturizing and SPF. Even after visible side effects subside, your skin is still repairing itself and generating new collagen and skin cells, so proper skincare is key to support this process.

Most patients will require an initial series of at least three to four treatments to see the desired results. You may require more treatments if you have moderate-to-severe skin concerns, such as deep acne scarring, stretchmarks or dynamic wrinkles. Your treatment frequency is important, especially if you need to build collagen to reduce scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles. The more consistent your treatment is, the better and quicker your results will be. For most patients, the ideal treatment frequency for RF microneedling is once every five to six weeks.

The combination of RF microneedling with PRP is more effective than RF microneedling alone or applying PRP alone. While both effective individually, it is the combination of the two treatments that provide a vital foundation necessary for maximum absorption, reduced healing time and optimal results.

Microneedling with RF is effective for all skin types and tones. You are a good candidate for Microneedling with RF if you desire skin resurfacing and rejuvenation with a minimally-invasive procedure and very little downtime. Microneedling is generally a well-tolerated, safe procedure. Contraindications are limited, but include the following: 1. Active acne, especially inflammatory lesions 2. Active herpes labialis or other localized infection in the treatment area, including warts. 3. Moderate-to-severe chronic skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis 4. Patients with extreme keloidal tendencies 5. Immunosuppressed patients, including patients on chemotherapy 6. Care should also be taken in patients near concomitant chemodenervation (botulinum toxin) injection sites to avoid unwanted toxin diffusion. Must wait 4 weeks post botox or filler procedure.