Radiofrequency micro needling
The best thing since sliced bread.
I suffered from quite terrible acne as a teenager. This coupled with the large pores, I inherited from my mother, made me a great candidate for RF (radiofrequency) microneedling.
I could not wait to try it out. The theory was sound and the side effects were minimal.
What does it involve?
Microneedling involves using tiny sterile needles to make micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates the skin’s natural healing process to promote the production of collagen and elastin.
Radiofrequency energy heats the deeper layers of the skin, specifically the dermis, promoting collagen remodeling and skin tightening. The combination enhances the overall effectiveness of the treatment leading to faster results with less downtime.
The problems it can target are:
- acne
- scars
- cellulite
- fine lines and wrinkles
- hyperhidrosis
- large pores
- sagging skin
- scars from injury or surgery
- stretch marks
The procedure itself can be carried out with or without topical anaesthetic – I went without. I’ll admit it was slightly uncomfortable but not painful. The whole process takes about 20 minutes without anaesthetic and another 20-30 minutes with.
The machine is run over the treatment area 2/3 times, and in some instances a serum can be used in between.
After the treatment the extreme sensitivity lasted around 1-2 hours, followed by a gentle discomfort over the next 24-48 hours.
Frequently reported side effects are redness, swelling, and mild discomfort, similar to a sunburn, which usually subsides within a few days. Most individuals can resume their normal activities within a few days to a week.
There are a few aftercare instructions to follow:
- Avoid rubbing the treated area to prevent infection and irritation
- Avoid wearing make up for 24 hours
- Use a gentle moisturiser or serum, Vitamin C helps with the healing process
- Use SPF and extra sun protection or avoid being in direct sunlight for 2 weeks
- No extremes of temperature/sweating for 24hours
- avoid sauna/gym
Remember your skin barrier has been compromised and will need a little TLC
The verdict
The effects starting with the feeling of tightness and lifting were immediate. Over the next 2 weeks I also saw an improvement in the size of my pores reducing, the depth of my acne scars improving and my overall skin texture becoming smoother and firmer.
For a little bit of discomfort I would definitely recommend the treatment and will be looking forward to further sessions needed to eliminate the acne scars completely. I am also looking forward to treating my post-pregnancy stretch marks.
