Microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure that combines two powerful skin rejuvenation techniques into a single treatment. It is a step up from traditional microneedling, offering enhanced results with minimal downtime.

How it works

The procedure uses a handheld device with fine, insulated needles that penetrate the skin to a specific, pre-determined depth. Here is a breakdown of the dual-action process:

Microneedling: The needles create thousands of microscopic "micro-injuries" or channels in the skin. This triggers the body's natural wound-healing response, which involves a cascade of repair mechanisms. This process stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin - the essential proteins that give skin its firmness, elasticity, and youthful appearance.

Radiofrequency energy: Simultaneously, the needles deliver RF energy deep into the dermal layers of the skin. The RF energy generates heat, causing a thermal injury to the underlying tissue. This controlled heat further enhances the collagen and elastin production process and causes existing collagen fibers to contract, leading to an immediate tightening effect.

The key benefit of the insulated needles is that the RF energy is delivered primarily to the dermis (the deeper layer of the skin), while the epidermis (the top layer) is largely spared from thermal damage. This makes the procedure safer and more effective for a wider range of skin types, with a reduced risk of hyperpigmentation compared to some laser treatments.

Benefits of microneedling with RF

Combining these two technologies provides a more comprehensive and powerful treatment than either one alone. The benefits include:

Skin tightening and firming: The combination of collagen induction and thermal contraction of existing collagen provides a significant skin-tightening effect, helping to reduce sagging and improve skin laxity on the face, neck, and body.

Reduced fine lines and wrinkles: By stimulating new collagen, the treatment helps to plump the skin and smooth out fine lines and deeper wrinkles.

Improved skin texture and tone: It can help to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven texture, and rough skin.

Acne scar reduction: The procedure is highly effective at remodeling and improving the appearance of various types of acne scars.

Minimally invasive with minimal downtime: While it is a more intensive treatment than traditional microneedling, the downtime is still relatively short, often just 24-72 hours of redness and swelling, similar to a mild sunburn.

What to expect and aftercare

A topical numbing cream is typically applied before the procedure to ensure comfort. The treatment itself can take anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being treated.

After the session, the skin will be red and may feel warm and tight. It is crucial to follow post-treatment instructions, which usually include:

Avoiding direct sun exposure and wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Using a gentle, hydrating cleanser and moisturizer.

Avoiding makeup and active skincare ingredients (like retinoids, AHAs, and vitamin C) for a few days.

Avoiding strenuous exercise, saunas, and hot showers for at least 24 hours.

Multiple sessions (typically 3-6) spaced several weeks apart are usually recommended for optimal and long-lasting results. The full effects of the treatment, as new collagen develops, can be seen over the course of several months.

Microneedling with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a popular and advanced cosmetic procedure that combines two powerful treatments to enhance skin rejuvenation. 

The Two-Part Process

The procedure combines the collagen-inducing effects of microneedling with the regenerative properties of PRP.

Part 1: The PRP Extraction

1. Blood Draw: A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient's arm, similar to a standard blood test.

2. Centrifugation: The blood is placed in a centrifuge machine, which spins it at a high speed.

3. Separation: The centrifugation process separates the blood into its different components. The red blood cells sink to the bottom, while a golden liquid layer, which is the Platelet-Rich Plasma, rises to the top. The PRP is a concentrated source of platelets, growth factors, and other proteins that are essential for healing and tissue regeneration.

Part 2: The Microneedling and Application of PRP

1. Microneedling: A microneedling device (like a DermaPen) is used to create thousands of microscopic channels in the skin. This triggers the body's natural wound-healing response and stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin.

2. Application of PRP: As the microneedling is performed, the extracted PRP is applied topically to the skin. The micro-channels created by the needles allow the PRP to penetrate deep into the dermal layers, where it can deliver its powerful growth factors directly to the cells that need them most.

The Benefits of Combining Microneedling and PRP

While both microneedling and PRP are effective on their own, combining them creates a synergistic effect that significantly enhances the results. The PRP acts as a natural booster for the microneedling process, leading to:

• Accelerated Healing: The growth factors in the PRP speed up the skin's natural healing and regenerative processes.

• Enhanced Collagen Production: PRP provides a potent dose of growth factors that supercharge the collagen induction process initiated by microneedling. This can lead to more dramatic improvements in skin firmness and elasticity.

• Improved Skin Tone and Texture: The combination is highly effective at improving a wide range of concerns, including acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven pigmentation.

• Natural and Safe: Since the PRP is sourced from the patient's own blood, there is virtually no risk of allergic reaction or rejection.

What to Expect and Aftercare

The procedure is performed in a clinical setting by a qualified professional. A topical numbing cream is usually applied before the treatment to ensure comfort. After the treatment, the skin will be red and may feel sensitive, similar to a sunburn. This redness and swelling can last for 24 to 72 hours.

Aftercare is crucial and often includes:

• Avoiding direct sun exposure and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

• Keeping the skin clean and hydrated with gentle products.

• Avoiding makeup for at least 24 hours.

For optimal and long-lasting results, a series of 3 to 6 treatments, spaced a few weeks apart, is typically recommended.

The blood draw is performed by our physician and the microneedle is performed by our qualified estheticians.