This combo treatment can work wonders on your skin.
Meet the ultimate power couple in skincare treatments: RF microneedling. "Radiofrequency microneedling pairs radiofrequency, which uses heat energy, with microneedling technology, which uses a wand studded with tiny needles, to causes micro-injuries to the skin’s surface," says Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, M.D., a dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology in New York City. "The combo treatment triggers collagen production, reduces crepiness, dull skin, sagging, uneven texture and acne scarring." Skin Care Instrument
While microneedling alone helps stimulate collagen, the addition of radiofrequency can make a big difference. "Regular microneedling devices do not penetrate skin as deep and only reach the most superficial layers of skin (about 0.25 mm deep) and no RF thermal energy is delivered into skin," says Birnur Aral, Ph.D., the Good Housekeeping Institute's Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab executive director. "The depth of RF microneedles can typically be adjusted from 0.5 to 3.5 mm, varying from device to device. I have personally experienced the benefits of microneedling in terms of remodeling of collagen which especially helped with smoothing of old acne scars on my cheeks."
Like many other in-office treatments, RF microneedling has some prep steps and post-procedure skincare guidelines. "The treatment itself takes about 30 minutes for the face," says Anna Karp, D.O., a dermatologist in Brooklyn, New York.
Keep reading for the step-by-step process, shared by Aral and our contributing dermatologists.
Thanks to the numbing cream part of the process, there is generally minimal pain while the treatment is taking place. "It is possible to experience a little pain and in rare cases, some minor bleeding during the treatment when needles penetrate and deliver the RF wave," says Aral.
This procedure does have a little downtime. "Patients may experience redness and swelling like a sunburn for about 48 hours after and skin can be a little pink for about a week," says Dr. Levin. "It also can cause breakouts in some people."
"Both microneedling and microneedling RF are great options for those who desire improved fine lines and texture including those with acne scars," says Dr. Robinson. "I do not recommend microneedling RF for patients who have conditions that are worsened or triggered by heat such as those with melasma, rosacea and skin lupus."
The best part? No skin tone is off limits here. "The great thing is that even Type VI skin, the darkest skin tones, can do this procedure but you just want to be careful to prevent post inflammatory hyperpigmentation after," Dr. Karp says. To do so, she suggests using sunscreen daily and brightening agents like azelaic acid and vitamin C — it does not need to be prescription-strength. Dr. Karp advises avoiding this treatment if your skin is extremely sensitive.
"The results of one treatment can last up to a few months," says Dr. Robinson. While you usually experience an instant brightening effect after a few days, "full results are usually apparent at 90 days after the procedure, because that’s how long it takes for collagen to rejuvenate." As these results develop over time, "they also don't disappear the way some injectables do (like neurotoxins or fillers)," adds Aral.
"Microneedling treatments are typically performed every four weeks for a series of three to six treatments depending on your skin goals," says Dr. Robinson. While one treatment can make a difference for skin rejuvenation, Dr. Karp recommends three to five treatments for acne scars.
In terms of pricing, "it can be anywhere from $500 to $2,500 depending on the number of treatments and location," says Dr. Levin.
The following treatments are all Good Housekeeping Beauty Award winners:
Morpheus8 is another popular option that a few of the derms we spoke to recommended. As mentioned above, Aral tested the Vivace device and was very happy with the results: “I received two Vivace treatments to smooth my skin texture, and I found it the least painful of any microneedling I’ve tried. My skin was a bit red and rough for a few days, after which it looked glowing and felt smoother. Within two to three months, my skin appeared tighter and fine lines were softer.”
Whichever one you choose to try, make sure to visit the brand's website to find a reputable provider and learn about the treatment before diving in.
All of our experts agree: This is one treatment to leave to the pros. "I do not recommend at-home microneedling or microneedling with RF as there can be serious risks including skin infection and scaring," says Dr. Robinson.
Dori Price is a New York City-based freelance writer and editor and beauty, style and wellness expert who was the Beauty & Fashion Director at Family Circle for 13 years before she joined Good Housekeeping, Prevention and Woman’s Day as a freelance beauty editor. She has also written for WomensHealthMag.com, Elle.com and HealthCentral.com.
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