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Unlock the Secrets of Radio Frequency Microneedling

  • Writer: Maddie Webster
    Maddie Webster
  • Aug 3
  • 4 min read

Updated: Aug 10

From smoothing scars to sculpting jawlines, Radio Frequency Microneedling is an advanced skin treatment that provides amazing anti-aging results.


A lady receiving Radio Frequency Microneedling Treatment

Radio Frequency Microneedling explained

So let's unlock the secret of Radio Frequency Microneedling, an amazing treatment raved about by influencers and celebrities. The combination of two gold standard collagen-boosting technologies, RF microneedling utilises both microneedling and radio frequency to tighten skin laxity, smooth out wrinkles and minimise the appearance of enlarged pores. A collection of needles (25pins on the Focus Dual device) penetrates the skin at variable levels depending on the area and what we are treating. Usually between 0.5mm and 1.5mm will be deep enough to penetrate through to the epidermal/dermal junction: the area where the epidermis meets the dermis. This is where the skins collagen, elastin and fibroblasts reside, the area which we want to target.


Once those needles are in the skin at the required depth, an automatic shot of Radio Frequency is delivered, heating the cells and tissues to 39 degrees and causing controlled thermal damage. The micro-injury then stimulates the bodies wound healing processes, a cascade of cellular changes to stimulate healing, collagen renewal and cell regeneration throughout multiple layers of the skin.


Is RF Microneedling for everyone?

Well yes, nearly all skin types are suitable for RF Microneedling but there are certain preparations needed for those with higher levels of pigment in their skin. Fitzpatrick skin types 4-6 must be treated with more caution as they are at higher risk of experiencing post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.


There are certain medical conditions which contraindicate this treatment

  • Melasma

  • Vitiligo

  • Rosacea

  • Keloid Scarring

  • Use of oral prescription-level Isotretinoin/Accutane/Roactane


Clients with these conditions would not be suitable as the treatment could exacerbate their skin issues.


How to prepare for RF Microneedling.

You are going to need to make sure the skin is healthy and strong prior to beginning your treatment course. This will ensure that your skin heals well and reduces the chances of adverse reactions. A suitable, consistent at home skincare routine should be followed before and after your treatment to support the skin during the healing process and we wouldn't advise booking any events within 48hours as your skin could be red and a little puffy, you also cannot apply any makeup to the skin until the micro holes have closed.


What to expect during your treatment?

You will have previously visited the clinic for an in-depth consultation, this will be repeated and checked prior to your treatment beginning. The skin is thoroughly cleansed and wiped over with a antibacterial/antimicrobial solution to ensure the surface is hyper clean. Some clinics will apply a numbing cream but I don't actually advise this myself as I do not believe it is required when only treating at the necessary depths.


The average skin thickness of the face (excluding eyelid skin) can range between 1.07mm - 1.65mm. To reach your optimal dermal depth, you only need to penetrate between 0.5mm - 1.5mm. These measurements are a combination of the epidermis and dermis, the target is the junction between them or just below, so going deeper in treatment will not actually have any benefit. That being said, if you are trying to target subcutaneous fat layers then yes, levels of 2mm or more are required.


Cross-section of skin layers labeled epidermis, dermis, fascia, with needles penetrating at varying depths. Text lists skin issues addressed.

The treatment can be somewhat uncomfortable, with slight pinching and heat sensations. However, it is quick, and most clients tolerate it well. Stress balls are provided to help with any discomfort.


One of the amazing benefits of using the Focus Dual machine is that everything can be customised so we can change the settings to manage your comfort levels if required.


I would always perform your first session at lower level and then increase as we progress through your treatment course. Setting variations are also changed depending on your recovery length and what specific results we are trying to achieve.


The skin is then cooled with a sheet mask and a generous amount of moisturiser and spf is applied to the skin.


How will I look after the treatment?

Expect a good level of redness! Everyone reacts differently but yes, your skin will be red. It will feel warm, a little like sun burn but definitely not painful. You will be given your strict aftercare instructions and provided with a moisturiser, spf and sheet mask to use at home for the following couple of days. The tight feeling experienced afterwards is almost quite exciting but unfortunately this will subside as the skin heals and thats when the real processes underneath the skin start to begin. For the next 3-6 months your skin will be healing, rebuilding collagen and regaining some of its youth.


Treatments should be scheduled 4-6 weeks apart. If you have mild wrinkles or fine lines, plan for 2-3 sessions. For acne scars, up to 6 sessions are necessary, while addressing skin laxity or sagging typically requires 3-4 sessions. To maintain results and support collagen preservation for long-term benefits, 1-2 maintenance sessions per year are recommended.


This treatment will not provide an instant result, it's more like an investment to help rebuild what is already lost and provide collagen banking for the future.


In a sea of available treatments that make grand promises yet often fall short, RF microneedling distinguishes itself. It is backed by solid science, can be tailored to individual needs, suits all skin tones, and provides visible results.


Head to the treatment page to see before and after results.


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