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If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to rejuvenate your skin and address common signs of aging, radiofrequency microneedling (RF microneedling) might be just what you need.

This innovative, minimally invasive treatment uses a combination of tiny needles and radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, tighten sagging skin, and improve overall skin texture and tone. It’s an excellent treatment option for a variety of skin concerns, but it works particularly well on older skin.

What Is RF Microneedling?

The Morpheus8 RF microneedling device contains multiple ultra-thin needles that create tiny microchannels in the skin’s surface. These microchannels stimulate the skin’s natural healing process and promote the production of collagen and elastin, two essential proteins that give the skin its elasticity and firmness.

As the microneedles puncture the skin, they simultaneously deliver radiofrequency energy into the deeper layers of the skin, heating the tissues and triggering further collagen and elastin production. The depth of the needles is customizable, so your provider can treat delicate areas such as the thin skin around the eyes as well as denser areas of skin.

The combination of microneedling and RF energy helps improve the skin’s overall texture, tone, and tightness, resulting in a more youthful and radiant appearance.

How Is Microneedling RF Different Than Traditional Microneedling?

Microneedling RF is considered a more advanced form of traditional microneedling. It not only creates microchannels in the skin but also delivers controlled heat energy to the deeper layers of the skin. The Morpheus8 device we use in our practice heats the subdermal layers of skin to 8mm deep. This results in more comprehensive and longer-lasting rejuvenation.

What Skin Concerns Can Microneedling RF Address?

Microneedling RF is an excellent option for many patients with a variety of skin concerns, including:

  • Wrinkles and Fine Lines. By stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, microneedling RF can diminish the appearance of facial creases.
  • Sagging Skin. The RF energy delivered during the procedure addresses mild-to-moderate skin laxity, resulting in firmer, tighter, more resilient skin.
  • Scars. Microneedling RF improves the appearance of acne scarring and stretch marks by stimulating collagen production and promoting skin cell turnover.
  • Hyperpigmentation. The treatment evens out skin tone and reduces the appearance of age spots, melasma, sun spots, and other discoloration. It does so by prompting the repair of the skin’s damaged extracellular matrix.
  • Large Pores. As collagen production increases in response to the micro-injuries of microneedling, skin pores shrink and the skin tightens.

Areas of Treatment

RF microneedling can be used on many areas of the face and body, including:

  • Face and neck
  • Chest
  • Abdomen
  • Thighs and buttocks
  • Arms

Before & After of RF Microneedling/Morpheus8 Patient

Before and After of patient who received Morpheus8 (Morpheus8: Dr. S. Harper)

Can RF Microneedling Work on Older Skin?

We often recommend microneedling RF for older patients who want to address the signs of aging and rejuvenate their skin. As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin, leading to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Microneedling RF stimulates the production of these essential proteins, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.

RF microneedling is also a good option for older skin because mature skin is thinner than young skin. The Morpheus8 RF microneedling device allows us to control the depth of microneedle penetration, making the treatment safe for aging skin. In fact, RF microneedling is safe for all skin types and colors, so even dark, delicate, and sensitive skin types can benefit from the treatment.

Preparing for RF Microneedling Treatments

Before receiving RF microneedling treatments, we advise patients to protect their skin by limiting sun exposure, staying hydrated, and avoiding harsh skincare products like salicylic acid, retinoids, and glycolic acid. Patients should also stop taking blood-thinning medications a few days before their treatment if it is safe to do so. At your consultation, we will examine the quality of your skin and discuss your medical history to make sure each step of the procedure is safe.

What Can I Expect From the Procedure?

A microneedling RF treatment session typically takes around an hour, depending on the size of the treatment area.

Before the procedure begins, the treatment area will be cleansed and disinfected. A numbing cream may be applied to minimize any discomfort during the process. The device will be passed over the treatment area, and its ultra-thin needles will create microchannels in the skin.

Most people experience only minimal discomfort during the procedure, with some describing a mild tingling or pricking sensation. Afterward, some redness and swelling are normal, but this typically subsides within a day or two. Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.

How Many Treatments Are Needed?

Depending on your skin concerns and goals, multiple microneedling RF treatments may be recommended to achieve optimal results. A series of 2 to 4 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart is often ideal.

RF Microneedling Results

Most patients see more youthful skin within a few weeks to a month after the initial RF microneedling treatment. Over time, as the production of collagen and elastin increases, the skin will continue to improve in texture, tone, and overall appearance. The full effects of RF microneedling may take several months to become fully apparent. Results can last about a year or longer.

It’s important to protect your skin from sun damage by wearing sunscreen and avoiding prolonged sun exposure. Additionally, a consistent skincare routine using advanced products can help prolong your results and improve the overall health of your skin.

Request a Consultation

If you’re interested in speaking about microneedling RF with an experienced licensed medical aesthetician at CC Skin Clinic at CC Plastic Surgery, call our Charleston, SC, office at (843) 350-6467 or request a consultation using our online form.

Microneedling FAQs

  1. Is RF microneedling for older skin safe?
    1. Yes. The advanced Morpheus8 technology can be easily adjusted to penetrate different depths of the skin, making it safe for all skin types, including delicate aging skin.
  2. How does RF microneedling work for acne scars?
    1. Microneedling triggers collagen production and tissue regeneration in the deep layers of the skin. These new, healthy tissues resurface the skin and “cover up” scars and other surface imperfections. The tightening effect of RF energy also causes the skin to contract, which can improve the look of pitted scars.
  3. How is Morpheus8 different from other RF microneedling devices?
    1. Morpheus8 penetrates deeper into the skin than other microneedling devices. This allows it to target the fat layer and melt away stubborn fat. Deeper penetration of the Morpheus8 needles also allows for more dramatic skin rejuvenation and the ability to treat moderate signs of aging.
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