Microneedling RF
Two of the most popular procedures for skin rejuvenation are microneedling and radiofrequency energy treatments. As we age, we naturally lose firmness in our skin due to a decrease in the amount of collagen which our bodies produce. This loss of collagen can lead to uneven skin texture, as well as skin laxity (looseness). A decrease in collagen and elastin, in combination with sun damage, and generalized aging, can lead to hyper-pigmentation, discoloration, fine lines, and deep wrinkles. In addition, previous skin damage from old acne or acne scarring, can make us feel as though our skin has aged well beyond our years. Dr. Michele Green was one of the first dermatologists in NYC to incorporate RF Microneedling into her boutique NYC dermatology practice and is an expert in both treating acne scars, skin tightening, and non-invasive skin rejuvenation.
Thanks to the innovative combination treatment of microneedling with radiofrequency, RF microneedling, patients are now able to improve the look and feel of their skin without any downtime. Though radiofreqency energy, RF Microneedling is able to target the epidermal layer of your skin to achieve exceptional skin tightening, improved skin texture, and enhanced skin tone. RF Microneedling creates a series of micro-injuries to the skin and induces new collagen and elastin production. This innovative treatment utilizes microneedles to create tiny pinpricks along the top layer of your skin, the epidermis, which in turn boosts the natural wound-healing process of the skin, stimulating new collagen production. This new collagen reduces the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks. When combined with radiofrequency (RF) energy, these micro needles are combined with targeted heat application and reach the lower layers of the dermis, which stimulated collagen production deep within the skin. The result? An amazing skin tightening and skin resurfacing treatment that is safe for all skin types.
If you’re frustrated by skin laxity, uneven skin tone, acne scars, fine lines, sun damage, or other signs of aging on your skin, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green is here to help. Dr. Green is an expert in non-invasive cosmetic treatments, such as Botox®, PRP injections, Juvederm®, Sculptra®, Fraxel® laser, chemical peels, CoolSculpting®, Thermage®, and other skin tightening lasers. With over 25 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Green is consistently voted as one of the best dermatologists in NYC. Whether it is cutting edge skin care, dermal filler injections, or other anti-aging treatments, Dr. Michele Green will help you look your very best.
What is RF Microneedling?
Microneedling with radiofrequency is a combination treatment that maximizes the wound healing benefits of microneedling with the boosted collagen and elastin production of RF energy. Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, stimulates the skin through the use of fine microneedles that are applied through the very top layer of the skin, the epidermis. In RF microneedling, the traditional microneedling procedure is combined with the use of RF energy, which is able to heat deeper layers of the dermis within the treatment area.
This innovative combination treatment is FDA-approved to tighten skin, improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation and scarring, and reduce signs of aging on the skin, such as fine lines and wrinkles. As it relies on the body’s own healing properties and growth factors, it’s an excellent alternative to more invasive treatments that require significant downtime and recovery. The treatment is delivered by a single handpiece that administers both microneedling and RF energy treatment.
Does RF Microneedling really work?
According to a study in the Journal of Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, RF microneedling’s combination ablative and dermal heating treatment is successful, “for the treatment of skin laxity, wrinkles, enlarged pores, pigmented lesions [brown spots], acne, telangiectasias [spider veins], and scarring from trauma or acne.” The study also indicates that RF microneedling has minimal downtime, especially when compared to ablative laser treatments, with extremely limited side effects. RF microneedling is also shown to be effective and safe for all skin types, unlike ablative lasers which can be damaging to darker skin tones.
RF microneedling is an excellent way to tighten and rejuvenate skin while simultaneously treating fine lines, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. For many, improvements to the skin will be apparent even after a single treatment. However, Dr. Green typically recommends 4-6 treatments for optimal results and the best skin rejuvenation. In addition, strict sun avoidance and good skin care is essential to having the best cosmetic results from RF Microneedling.
How long does (RF) Radiofrequency Microneedling last?
After your initial RF microneedling treatment, the improvement in your skin will be apparent in just a few days. However, after a series of treatments, there will be significant skin rejuvenation observed, as the positive effects continue to improve over several weeks. The answer to “how long does RF microneedling last?” varies with each individual patient. Optimal skin care and sun avoidance and a healthy life style will all influence your overall skin heath and the cosmetic benefit of your treatment. However, as the results of microneedling treatment can permanently reduce the appearance of acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and age spots. RF microneedling treatment has skin tightening effects that can last up to 2 years. Most patients will schedule periodic maintenance treatments in order to boost the results of their RF microneedling treatment.
How does Microneedling work?
Microneedling treatment is based on the natural wound-healing properties of the skin. The process relies on a handheld device or handpiece that creates micro-injuries along the surface of the skin. These micro-injuries, while painless, stimulate the production of new collagen in the skin, which encourages the growth of new, healthy skin. These tiny pinpricks to the skin surface are also able to disrupt the skin’s natural “memory” of injuries or scars, which in turn can eliminate acne scars or other atrophic scars.
Microneedling is a painless, non-invasive procedure that boosts collagen and elastin production in the skin, and it can be combined with other treatments to maximize skin rejuvenation. For example, a microneedling procedure creates micro-channels within the layers of the dermis that allow for maximum absorption of nourishing serums, such as Vitamin-C serum (like Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABS Vita-C Serum) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Microneedling with radiofrequency is another combination treatment that takes advantage of the skin healing process triggered by microneedling treatment.
How does radiofrequency energy treatment work?
Fractional radiofrequency energy treatment (RF treatment) can be used on its own or in combination with other treatments like microneedling to promote anti-aging via the stimulation of collagen creation. On its own, radiofrequency energy treatment works via radio waves that create heat damage in the deeper layers of your skin. This thermal damage stimulates the body’s natural healing process, which leads to the creation of more collagen. Collagen is responsible for keeping our skin smooth, thick, and healthy. This increased production of collagen as a result of the thermal damage works to reverse signs of the natural aging process, such as loose or sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. When radiofrequency energy treatment is used in combination with microneedling, there is one needle that pierces the skin and then releases radio waves into the wound. Combined with microneedling, RF treatment provides additional opportunity for increased collagen production.
How does traditional Microneedling compare with RF Microneedling?
Traditional microneedling is able to reduce the appearance of acne scars, age spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma, fine lines and wrinkles, as well as stretch marks practically anywhere on the body. What makes RF microneedling unique is that it’s able to amplify the collagen and elastin production deeper within the layers of the skin in order to ignite skin tightening alongside skin rejuvenation. It is one of the few combination treatments that can both eliminate scarring and discoloration while firming and smoothing the appearance of the skin. The procedure for RF microneedling is quite similar to that of traditional microneedling. The primary difference is simply the handpiece used, which has RF technology built into the device.
Is RF Microneedling better than Microneedling?
Neither procedure is inherently “better” – it depends on what would be best for you! Each patient’s need and aesthetic goals are unique and therefore the treatment or combination of treatment that works best is up to each individual. Both RF microneedling and traditional microneedling are effective in reducing the appearance of damage to skin such as acne scars, stretch marks, and hyperpigmentation, as well as diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. RF microneedling uses radio waves to cause thermal damage, which further promotes the production of collagen and reduces skin laxity. Both RF microneedling and traditional microneedling can be combined with other treatments such as PRP treatments, Vitamin C serum, and dermal fillers to produce the results that align with your aesthetic goals. When you meet with Dr. Green, you will determine together the treatment plan that is best for you.
Does RF Microneedling hurt?
RF Microneedling is a painless process. For added comfort during treatment, a topical anesthetic (topical numbing cream) is applied to the treatment area one hour before your procedure. After treatment, you may experience mild redness or itching on the skin, but these symptoms typically resolve within a day or two.
How often can you do RF Microneedling?
Patients often wonder, how many RF microneedling treatments do I need? For optimal results, Dr. Green recommends that RF microneedling treatments be scheduled about four weeks apart. The majority of patients will do a series of four to six treatments, and downtime is quite minimal, meaning that you can get back to your daily routine within one to two days post-treatment.
Microneedling with PRP – 5 months
How long does it take to see results from RF Microneedling?
You will begin to see results several days following the RF microneedling treatment with the effects increasing in visibility over the next several weeks to several months. RF microneedling triggers the body’s natural healing process, so it does take some time for the healing to take full effect. You will likely see maximum effects of the treatment for several years following the initial treatment process and treatment can be repeated annually to maintain a healthy, smooth, youthful appearance.
Vivace RF Microneedling
Vivace RF Microneedling, created by Aesthetics Biomedical, is a new technology in the world of RF microneedling. It uses RF energy to heat the skin while the microneedling treatment is applied. Vivace Microneedling, also known as the Vivace experience, is an excellent RF microneedling device that expertly combines microneedling and RF treatment together so that patients can gain maximum benefit from both skin rejuvenation techniques. Dr. Green was one of the first dermatologists to incorporate Vivace into her private Upper East Side dermatology office with outstanding results.
Is RF Microneedling better than Botox?
RF Microneedling is a comfortable, non-invasive cosmetic treatment designed to tighten skin and reduce the appearance of acne scarring, fine lines and discoloration on the skin. Botox is an injectable treatment that “freezes” nerve signals to certain muscles around a treatment area, which in turn reduces the appearance of dynamic wrinkles. RF microneedling and Botox are both excellent cosmetic treatment options for reducing the signs of aging, and can in fact be complementary, particularly when it comes to facial skin rejuvenation.
In fact, one method of Microneedling which Dr. Green utilizes in her office is Microneedling with Aquagold. In Aquagold Microneedling, Botox, Belotero, or other dermal fillers are diffused into the skin, to tighten and improve the entire texture of the skin with zero down time. When you work with Dr. Green, she’ll be able to customize a treatment plan that factors in all of your needs and aesthetic goals, and will inform you of any complementary treatments, such as Botox and dermal fillers, and Thermage FLX, that will give you the best cosmetic results.
Botox & Microneedling 1 month before and after
Does RF Microneedling dissolve filler?
No! Studies have shown that patients do not need to be afraid that RF microneedling will dissolve the dermal fillers which have been injected. Research has demonstrated that the radiofrequency energy does not melt these dermal fillers, which are composed of hyaluronic acid. In fact, dermal fillers can be used in combination with microneedling to replace and enhance volume lost as a result of depressed acne scarring or the natural aging process.
Is RF Microneedling safe?
RF Microneedling is FDA-approved to revitalize skin, meaning it’s incredibly safe for the majority of patients. However, RF microneedling treatment is not recommended for patients who are or have recently used the acne medication Accutane, have recently undergone radiation treatment, currently have open wounds or active breakouts, have a history of keloid scars, or who are pregnant.
What is Profound RF Microneedling?
Profound RF microneedling is a process that builds upon the concept of RF microneedling but goes deeper into the dermis. Profound RF Microneedling was recently approved by the FDA to promote both collagen and elastin production in the skin, and is a multi-bipolar, long pulse, RF microneedling treatment. Profound RF microneedling is defined primarily by a larger needle depth. Due to this deeper access into the dermis, profound FR microneedling can be more uncomfortable for patients, and must be performed under anesthesia, but it can serve to help with skin rejuvenation in specific treatment areas.
What is the best RF Microneedling Device?
Dr. Green’s go-to RF microneedling device is Vivace Microneedling, which synthesizes the RF microneedling treatment into one, sleek handpiece. The Vivace experience is FDA-approved to alleviate fine lines and wrinkles, tighten skin, minimize pore size, and improve skin tone as well as skin texture. It requires minimal downtime and is essentially pain-free, making it the perfect choice for patients seeking skin rejuvenation and skin tightening treatment.
How much does RF Microneedling cost?
When patients ask about the cost of RF microneedling, the answer is: it depends. Cost of the procedure can change based on your geographic location, your treatment provider, and the size and damage of the treatment area. Each patient seeking RF microneedling has unique aesthetic goals and areas of damage that need treating. The size and scope of the treatment area can have an effect on the cost of the treatment. Additionally, the certification and experience of your treatment provider can make a difference in price. If you were to receive the treatment at a medspa, for example, the treatment would likely be less expensive than if you were to receive treatment from a board-certified, expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. However, because RF microneedling is a precise process, the risk of side effects is greatly reduced if you seek treatment from an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Green.
Who can perform Microneedling?
Microneedling treatment can be advertised at a variety of different institutions, including medspas, private nurses, and even for at-home use. However, for results that are long lasting and that meet your unique aesthetic goals, it is best to go to an experience dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green does not have a “one-size-fits-all” treatment plan when it comes to microneedling. She will discuss your individual treatment needs and goals to create the treatment plan that works best for you. Dr. Green can also recommend the best combination of treatments to address your needs, whether that means traditional microneedling or RF microneedling combined with PRP treatment, Vitamin-C serum, depigmentation serums, dermal fillers and more.
Who is a good candidate for RF Microneedling?
Radiofrequency microneedling can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions and create a glowing, youthful look complexion. If you are experiencing fine lines and wrinkles or loose and sagging skin from sun damage or aging, RF microneedling will help reverse these unwanted cosmetic changes. RF microneedling can address damage to the skin, such as atrophic (depressed) acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, or other scarring that resulted from injury. RF microneedling boosts collagen production to trigger the body’s natural healing process and eliminate evidence of acne scarring and photo-aging.
How do I get started with RF Microneedling today?
If you are bothered by skin sagging, fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, discoloration, acne scars, or photo-aging, RF Microneedling may be the best cosmetic treatment for you. Dr. Michele Green has been on the forefront of cosmetic dermatology for over two decades in her discreet, private New York City office. With over 25 years of experience with chemical peels, cosmetic lasers, microneedling, Thermage, Fraxel, dermal fillers, and Botox injections, Dr. Green will help customize the best skin rejuvenation treatment plan for you. Please contact the NYC office of Dr. Michele Green online today or call 212 535 3088 to schedule a consultation and learn which is the best cosmetic skin care and treatment program for you.