The skin experiences several changes with age, from environmental damage to collagen breakdown and even a decrease in necessary structural proteins. While we cannot usually see the damage being done, once it makes its mark on the skin, most of us want to improve the skin’s texture and tone since wrinkles, scars, discoloration, enlarged pores, and looseness often result. One of the best ways to improve the skin’s current state to look younger, healthier, and fresher is with radiofrequency (RF) microneedling procedures. The treatment, which relies on tiny needles, creates controlled injuries to incite collagen production. Here, we dive deep into RF Microneedling and what to expect so you can better understand how long your results will last.
The Basics of RF Microneedling
RF Microneedling combines the best of both RF treatments and microneedling for a one-two punch that dramatically improves the skin. The treatment relies on tiny needles inserted into the skin to create new collagen as part of the wound-healing response. At the same time that the outermost layer of skin is safely punctured, RF energy is also delivered into the tissues for even greater collagen stimulation and increased elastin production. Plus, using RF energy can treat areas of excess subcutaneous fat, which you cannot achieve with microneedling alone.
Different RF microneedling devices have different needle lengths and adjustable settings, so your provider can control how intense the treatment needs to be to help you reach your skin goals. Unlike some aggressive lasers, RF microneedling is generally considered a safe skin rejuvenating treatment for all skin tones and types. Still, there is minimal downtime and discomfort with all kinds of RF microneedling machines.
RF microneedling is an extremely popular, highly sought after treatment that provides several skin benefits:
- Increased skin firmness
- Improved skin tone and texture
- Less discoloration
- Enhanced collagen and elastin levels
- Fewer fine lines and wrinkles
- A smoothing effect on scars and acne scars
- Less visible stretch marks
- A reduction in pore size
- Minimal downtime
At CARE Esthetics, we offer Morpheus8 RF microneedling. The device uses the deepest fractional treatment available and heats the tissue up to 8mm deep. It can also be used to treat small and large areas of concern across the face and body for dramatic results.
The Immediate and Short-Term Effects of RF Microneedling: What to Expect
RF microneedling is a cumulative treatment in terms of results. While you will see results from just one treatment, we always recommend a series to notice the most profound difference in the skin. Immediately after an RF microneedling treatment session, it is normal for the skin to appear pink or red, like it is sunburned, with mild swelling and some minor pinpoint bleeding. As the skin begins to heal in the coming days, some areas may scab or crust over. Then, the skin will start to radiate a natural, healthy glow.
After the first days, some people notice a change in their skin, often smaller-looking pores, firmness due to post-treatment residual swelling, and a refined texture and tone. Even if you see results as soon as your first treatment, the best results are achieved 90 days after the third treatment.
The skin will begin to look more youthful and rejuvenated in the coming weeks. It can take upwards of three months, if not longer, for the effects of increased collagen stimulation to kick in, which is why the results take time. Most patients notice brighter, more youthful-looking skin and improved skin texture as the skin begins to heal. Skin improvement becomes more evident after several treatments, usually around three months. However, the results of each treatment can last a few months, which is why a cumulative results approach warrants the best results.
With Morpheus 8 RF Microneedling, we always recommend a minimum of three treatments spread four to six weeks apart to garner the best results. After completing three treatments, our team will create a customized plan to help you maintain and enhance the results.
How Long Do the Results of RF Microneedling Last?
Over time, the results of RF microneedling improve as collagen production contributes to skin health and a plumper, firmer appearance. It can take a few months (about three to six months) for the final results to appear on the skin. Once they do, you can expect them to last about one year, if not longer. How you care for your skin can influence how long RF microneedling lasts before it is time for follow-up sessions. After completing an entire course of treatments, we generally suggest two maintenance treatments per year to keep the skin looking its best.
Wearing sunscreen daily and following a skincare routine with professional products, eating a healthy diet with limited alcohol consumption, and getting good quality sleep can all help prolong the results.
During a consultation with the CARE Esthetics team, you can learn more about your specific needs and goals. This will help you determine the benefits of RF microneedling and ensure that the treatment is right for you!
