Why is Microneedling RF superior in results compared to Lasers?

The statistic of facelift plastic surgery declared that two-thirds of the patients who received surgical facelifts developed scarring. The scarring is above the skin and requires further scar management. However, none of the patients receiving RF microneedling have scars after the treatment.
Based on their review, Tan and colleagues recommend that Microneedling radiofrequency treatment can be offered to patients looking for skin rejuvenation, acne treatment, acne scars treatment, and axillary hyperhidrosis.

How does Microneedling RF work for collagen better than Lasers?

One finding that Tan described as "interesting" was the observation that RF microneedling was superior to Er: YAG fractional ablative lasers for treating nasolabial folds, eye wrinkles, jawline, and neck sageness. The Microneedling RF delivers thermal energy that produces a reverse temperature gradient to most ablative lasers. Ablative lasers target water as its chromophore through the technology called selective photothermolysis. As a result, the temperature gradient is highest at the epidermis and papillary dermis, more superficial skin layers, and decreases, reaching deeper collagen skin structures.

In Microneedling RF, radiofrequency energy is delivered to the depth of collagen through the microneedle-containing electrodes. The heat creates a temperature gradient deep into the collagen skin layer and is cooler at the superficial structures. "This result reduces the risk of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation," explained Tan, a resident in the division of dermatology at the University of Ottawa, "because the superficial skin does not receive the heat."

What is Microneedling RF recommended for according to the newest research?

Tan and colleagues recommend that Microneedling RF be offered as one of the therapeutic options for patients seeking treatment for skin rejuvenation, acne vulgaris, acne scars, and axillary hyperhidrosis. 

Some research shows the effectiveness of the technology for inflamed rosacea, rosacea, stretch marks, and male-pattern androgenetic alopecia when used in conjunction with topical 5% minoxidil. However, more data is needed to confirm these results.

Is it safe to use Microneedling RF for a darker skin type?

"Because Microneedling RF does not affect skin chromophores-dark cells, the science world named it a 'color-blind' technology and said that it is safe to use for all skin types all year around. Compared to lasers, radiofrequency microneedling devices deliver energy to deeper skin structures by increasing the length of microneedle electrodes. 

Despite these advantages of RF microneedling, like a more substantial collagen-stimulating effect and fewer risks of getting trauma-related dark spots, the technology remains utilized less frequently compared to ablative lasers for skin rejuvenation.

What is the safest RF microneedling system for darker skin types?

The Sylfirm X device (Scarlet RF Microneedling before rebranding) has non-insulated tips. It delivers the energy from the tip of a conically shaped needle and moves proximally. "The energy never reaches the epidermis. Therefore, it is safe for all skin types", said DiGiorgio, a laser and cosmetic dermatologist who practices in Boston, at the annual Masters of Aesthetics Symposium. The RF microneedling systems work in two modes; continuous and pulsed. Continuous wave mode we use for skin tightening and wrinkles reduction, while the pulsed mode is for dark spots and vascular lesions like rosacea.

How many RF microneedling treatments do I need?

Most core fractional RF microneedling indications –rhytides, skin tightening, wrinkles, acne scars – require four treatments. "That's an important expectation to set for your patients," said DiGiorgio. Medvspa practitioners select depth and density parameters based on skin pathophysiology, aging type, and the condition being treated and use the customized combination with meso therapy to provide the best results.

Who is not a good candidate for RF microneedling treatment?

DiGiorgio's clinical experience shows that the ideal candidate for skin tightening with fractional RF microneedling has mild to moderate skin laxity that does not require surgical intervention. MedVSpa team found that severe skin laxity also shows promising results in face lifting and skin tightening. These patients require treatments on different skin depths and the customized mesotherapy combination combined with the technology in one treatment.

Is it painful to have a Microneedling RF treatment?

Fractional RF microneedling treatment is painful because needles penetrate the skin, delivering heat. Therefore, topical anesthesia is required. MedVSPa uses s special cream getting under the doctor's prescription. The downtime is 3 hours, showing facial redness.

How soon do I see the result after a factional radiofrequency microneedling treatment?

The benefits of microneedling RF treatment may have a slower onset than filler injections. Still, the result is progressive, long-lasting, and can be used repeatedly and safely in all skin types, including darker ones, with minimal risk of side effects.

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