Radiofrequency Microneedling FAQs

What is Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling?

Radiofrequency microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate the skin by causing controlled injury to the skin with fine, sterile needles and radiofrequency energy that improves skin tone and texture, and firmness. RF microneedling is essentially a skin tightening and resurfacing procedure. The skin will be smoother and more radiant within a week and improve over the course of a few months.

How does RF Microneedling work?

Microneedling needles gently penetrate and create microchannels in the upper layer of skin and deliver radiofrequency energy deep into the skin. This micro – injury induces the body’s healing cascade including the production of collagen and elastin to reduce the appearance of saggy and scarred skin. Additionally, the body generates new skin cells to replace aging skin and hyperpigmentation. The microchannels stay open for several hours and are a great way to deliver topical serums to enhance skin rejuvenation including platelet rich plasma. 

What does RF Microneedling treat?

RF Microneedling treats damaged and aging skin including age spots, photodamage, acne scars, other scarring, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and stretch marks.  The face, décolleté wrinkles and stretchmarks, crepey neck skin, lose skin, legs and arms, and even abdominal stretch marks can be treated. The result is smooth, even skin tone and texture and added firmness.  It is also safe and effective for use on the delicate skin around the eyes, and upper lip.

What are the results of RF Microneedling?

Microneedling stimulates the production of new collagen to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and scars and induces new skin cell production which removes hyperpigmentation. The result is smoother, firmer and more evenly toned skin. The radiofrequency energy firms and tightens the skin from within further enhancing collagen remodeling. RF energy is a proven, non-invasive and safe method to tighten the skin by delivering high intensity energy to the tissues. The result is lifted and tightened skin.

How is RF microneedling different from other radiofrequency energy treatments?

Most other RF treatments deliver this energy to the surface of the skin. RF microneedling delivers RF energy below the skin surface to enhance collagen production and skin cell regeneration.

Who is a good candidate for RF Microneedling?

Good candidates must be in good health, have signs of skin aging and realistic expectations. RF Microneedling can treat all skin types and colors including tanned skin. People who have active cold sores, a skin infection, a skin disease such as psoriasis, are receiving chemo or radiation, take anticoagulant medications, are pregnant or have a history of poor scarring including keloid scars, or poor wounding are not good candidates.

Does the RF microneedling procedure hurt?

The microneedling device contains ultrafine, very sharp, sterile needles that puncture the skin which causes only minimal damage to the skin. The microneedles do not cause permanent damage to the skin.  However, Dr. Zeena wants you to be comfortable so she will apply a topical numbing cream to the areas to be treated 30-45 minutes before your procedure.

What are the risks?

Possible side effects include peeling, itching, acne and cold sore flare ups.

Is there any downtime?

You can expect there will be some inflammation, swelling and redness like a sunburn that can last for 24 – 48 hours after the procedure. There may be some minor pinpoint bleeding and possibly some bruising. You will be advised on how to care for your skin during healing. It is important to wear sun screen and avoid sun exposure while you heal.  We also advise you to avoid applying makeup for 24 hours.

How many sessions are needed?

The number of treatments you need are based on the condition of your skin and what you are treating. Dr. Zeena will recommend the number of treatments for you. Most patients have 3 to 4 treatments to achieve their desired results. Touch up treatments can help to maintain your results.

Contact Dr. Zeena at New Orleans Aesthetics to schedule a consultation and discover the benefits of radiofrequency microneedling for yourself.