You may have heard of microneedling as it’s been a go-to for years in the aesthetic industry. But what about rf microneedling (sometimes referred to as microneedling rf)? Advancements in nonsurgical aesthetics have taken the benefits of microneedling and combined them with radiofrequency energy to produce more effective results that tighten, renew and remodel the skin, delivering long-lasting results.
Microneedling is exactly what it sounds like. When we say “micro,” we’re talking teeny, tiny needles that penetrate the skin’s surface causing micro injuries to the epidermis layer, or upper layer of the skin. It was first referred to as collagen-induction therapy, used in the mid-nineties to reduce scarring after surgery by generating new collagen to replace the scar tissue. Since then, it’s been widely used in aesthetics to promote stronger, healthier skin with improved tone and texture.
The Science Behind Microneedling
We’re all familiar with the fight or flight response our bodies produce when we sense danger. Because the body cannot flee from the micro trauma of microneedling, our body fights back by producing brand new collagen, elastin and fibrin to heal the tiny wounds.
Technically, we suppose you could get out of the treatment chair and run away, thereby “fleeing” from the treatment. But you would be doing yourself a disservice by bailing on your microneedling session! Microneedling is not a painful procedure. It produces a warm scratchy feeling that feels similar to a lick from a cat’s tongue. Depending on your pain tolerance, your provider may offer numbing cream prior to your treatment or even Pro-Nox, otherwise known as laughing gas or nitrous, which will send all your worries fleeing from the treatment room.
As we age, our bodies stop producing collagen, elastin and fibrin, which results in many of the visible signs of aging such as sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles. Loss of collagen also leads to the weakening of the skin. To combat collagen loss, aesthetic providers generally recommend a series of three to six microneedling treatments to improve the strength, tone, and texture of the skin. Patients who have acne scarring or stretch marks are wonderful candidates for this treatment. Microneedling also helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Though everyone can benefit from microneedling, those with melasma will want to consult their provider before being treated.
Do I have to See an Aesthetic Provider, Can’t I Just Purchase an At-Home Microneedling Device?
You should ALWAYS see a master esthetician who is trained in aesthetic microneedling to receive this treatment. And, no, you should not perform microneedling on yourself at home. In fact, there have been so many instances in recent years of at-home microneedling gone wrong, that the FDA stepped in to regulate these devices. Risks include infection, permanent scarring, granulomas, hyperpigmentation, and more. At RejuvenationMD we only hire licensed master estheticians who are trained in skin health. Additionally, we provide ongoing training to ensure our team is using the most advanced technology and proper techniques to deliver optimal results.
Speaking of optimal results… Our preferred non-energy microneedling device is the Rejuvapen NXT® which is a wonderful treatment on its own or used in combination with the popular Vampire Facial®. The Vampire facial uses platelet-rich plasma to feed the skin beneficial nutrients and proteins and Rejuvapen is our preferred method of delivering these growth factors into the epidermis layer of the skin, strengthening it with new collagen for healthier skin.
But, for next level results, we look to rf microneedling, which can also be combined with the Vampire Facial or used on its own to generate amazing results. RF microneedling combines the benefits of microneedling with radiofrequency technology. RF microneedling remodels collagen resulting in tighter, smoother, healthier skin after just three to six treatments.
At RejuvenationMD, founder Dr. Tsitsis (AKA, Dr. T) studies and tests all procedures prior to introducing them to the practice. She’s a stickler for results, but she also considers the pain factor. If a procedure is too painful, it’s difficult for patients to complete their treatment series to achieve the results we’re after. That’s why Dr, T chose Scarlet SRF over other rf microneedling devices in the industry.
Scarlet SRF The Best RF Microneedling in Aesthetics
Why Scarlet SRF? Scarlet SRF uses 25 tapered needles that deliver short pulses of radiofrequency to every layer of the skin. The tapered needles are more comfortable and they are gentle on the skin. Further, Scarlet SRF’s technology allows providers to adjust the settings to meet the needs of our patients’ skin. We can use Scarlet to tighten the eyelids treating all the way to the lash line! Because the technology is automated, patients receive a precise amount of radiofrequency for a consistent treatment every time.
It’s important to note that there is greater discomfort from rf microneedling than microneedling without radiofrequency. To mitigate this discomfort, we apply a highly potent numbing cream that is specially compounded for RejuvenationMD. We also provide Pro-Nox. Some patients prefer one over the other, but both are always an option because it is important that our patients are as comfortable as possible.
Scarlet SRF generates even more collagen, elastin and fibrin to produce a tightening and lifting of the skin. Patients will notice results immediately after one treatment, but the real results come three to four months after their last session when the body has had time to generate new tissue.
We can treat the entire body with Scarlet SRF:
- Tightening the skin above the knees and elbows
- Eliminating crepey skin on the chest and arms
- Doing away with stretch marks
- Tightening the neck and jawline
- Lifting the brow and midface
- We can even lift the breasts and booty with Scarlet SRF
After treatment, patients will have a slightly windburned appearance that will go away in the next 24 hours or so. If there is discomfort with the treatment it is gone as soon as the treatment is over, allowing patients to resume their normal activities. Though, some may choose social downtime until the redness is gone.
Combining Agnes RF with Scarlet SRF
Scarlet SRF is a complement to every Agnes RF treatment. Agnes RF is also a microneedling device that uses radiofrequency in similar way, but the device is designed to:
- Permanently eliminate fat below the chin, the jowls, under the eyes and on the body
- Eliminate the sebaceous glands that cause acne
- Eliminate the overactive sweat glands, treating hyperhidrosis
The design of the Agnes device allows us to nonsurgically lift and tighten the midface, neck, jawline, brow and even the nose, using a technique called tacking. Every Agnes RF treatment is followed by Scarlet SRF to smooth and tighten, improving the treatment results. Together, this dynamic duo of microneedling radiofrequency has given our providers the ability to achieve surgical results without the incisions, pain, downtime or risks associated with surgery.
Advancements in nonsurgical aesthetics like Scarlet SRF and Agnes RF have opened the doors to more accessible and affordable procedures that safely produce amazing results.
“Every body is different, but the good news is that Scarlet SRF and Agnes RF are safe and effective for all skin types. Whether you’re seeking preventive or corrective treatments, our experienced providers will tailor a treatment plan specific to your body to achieve your goals,” said Dr. T.
About RejuvenationMD
RejuvenationMD is the premier aesthetic skin treatment and wellness center in Washington’s North Sound serving Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan, Snohomish and King County with offices in Bellingham, Burlington and Bothell.
Our award-winning practice is home to female Physicians, ARNPs, Registered Nurses, experienced Master Estheticians and a team of Patient-Care Coordinators. Learn more online at www.RejuvenationMDMedSpa.com or call RejuvenationMD at 360-685-8408, 425-818-4868, or 360-982-2620 today.
