What Is RF Microneedling?
RF Microneedling is short for Radio Frequency Microneedling.
It is an advanced microneedling technique developed as a minimally invasive approach to improving skin quality and appearance. Radio frequency energy is delivered through small needles into the dermal layer of the skin. The energy is deposited in a tear drop shape. This intentional design deposits the majority of the energy deep into the dermal layer, stimulating collagen and restructuring elastin. This restructuring reconnects depleted and broken down collagen and elastin, restoring your youthful skin.
How It Works
What Are the Benefits of RF Microneedling?
The benefits of RF Microneedling include:
- Lifts, tightens and firms the skin
- Rebuilds collagen and elastin
- Shrinks pores
- Softens and minimizes scarring
- Reduces hyperpigmentation from sun damage
At Eterna, we use the Scarlet SRF™ (short pulse radio frequency) as we believe this technology works best to stimulate collagen and elastin to restructure and renew the firmness and density associated with youthful skin. With a series of treatments to the face, neck, and chest being our most popular approach, patients can see dramatic results!
When Will I See Results and How Often Should I Have RF Microneedling?
An initial series of three (3) treatments is recommended for optimal results (individual patient needs may vary). Results may be seen soon after your procedure and will continue to improve over time. The first three treatments should be spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Follow-up treatments can be performed every six months to a year to maintain your results, depending upon individual skin quality and lifestyle choices.
Why Choose Eterna Vein & Medical Aesthetics?
At Eterna Vein & Medical Aesthetics, our RF Microneedling treatments are performed by highly trained master aestheticians who bring extensive experience and precision to every procedure. Angela and Carissa are both graduates of premier aesthetic programs and have completed advanced training in radiofrequency microneedling techniques. With a combined decades of experience in medical aesthetics and a passion for continuing education, they stay at the forefront of the latest innovations to deliver superior results for your skin.
Under the expert oversight of Mark Kim, MD, RVT, RPVI, our practice combines clinical excellence with a personalized approach to aesthetic care. Dr. Kim’s holistic philosophy ensures that every treatment is tailored to your unique needs and goals. Our state-of-the-art facility in Puyallup provides a serene, comfortable environment where you can relax knowing you’re receiving the highest standard of care from a team dedicated to your safety, satisfaction, and natural-looking results.
What Are the Risks and Complications of RF Microneedling?
RF Microneedling is safe for most patients! It works for all skin types and colors. After treatment, patients can experience dryness of the skin. Treatment around the mouth, jawline and eyes can be especially tender during treatment. We use topical numbing cream to help with discomfort. If you are concerned about your comfort level during treatment, please talk to your provider about your options, as we have PRO-NOX (Nitrous Oxide) available in the office, at a nominal fee.
Contraindications
RF Microneedling may not be safe for the following patients (please discuss this with your provider before considering treatment):
- Pregnant or lactating women
- Patients with poor wound healing or a history of keloids
- Patients with active skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema, infection, or skin cancer)
- Patients with pacemakers or implanted electrical devices
- Patients with a weakened immune system (HIV/AIDS) or patients with poorly controlled diabetes
- Patients using Accutane or chronic oral steroids
Preparing for Your RF Microneedling Appointment
Preparing for Your RF Microneedling Treatment
To ensure safe treatment and optimal results, please follow these guidelines before your appointment:
- Avoid Retinol, Retin-A, topical acids, and exfoliating products for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment. For best results, discontinue Retinol or Retin-A for up to 1 month before your session.
- Avoid blood-thinning agents for 1 week prior to your appointment. This includes NSAIDs (Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen), Fish Oil supplements, and any non-Tylenol or non-acetaminophen products.
- Do not schedule your treatment within 6–12 weeks of any invasive laser procedures (such as CO2, Fraxel, Erbium, or Halo). Avoid non-invasive laser treatments for 3–6 weeks beforehand.
- Avoid perming or coloring your hair for 1 week prior to your appointment if you are receiving a scalp treatment (such as for brow lift support).
- Avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure for at least 4 days before treatment. Use a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide (SPF 30 or higher) to protect your skin.
- Notify us in advance if you have a history of cold sores or fever blisters. We may prescribe an antiviral medication for you to begin 1 day prior to treatment. Follow all prescription instructions as directed.
You may eat, drink, and exercise as normal before your appointment.
Preparing for Your RF Microneedling Treatment
Additional preparation instructions include:
- Avoid use of Retinol or Retin A products for 1 month prior to treatment
- Avoid use of blood thinning agents such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Aspirin, Motrin, Advil, Ibuprofen or any other non-Tylenol, non-acetaminophen product) or Fish Oil capsules for 1 week prior to your appointment
- If you have a history of fever blisters (cold sores), we recommend taking an anti-viral medication starting 1 day prior to your treatment. Follow your prescription instructions post procedure. See your provider if you require a prescription
- Avoid scheduling your RF microneedling treatment until you are 6-12 weeks after any invasive laser treatment (i.e. CO2, Fraxel, Erbium, Halo)
- For patient receiving a scalp treatment (for a brow lift), avoid coloring or perming your hair one week before your treatment
- Avoid tanning beds or prolonged sun exposure 4 days prior to treatment
- It is safe to exercise prior to your appointment. You may eat and drink as normal
During Your RF Microneedling Treatment
A topical numbing agent will be applied to your skin to help with any discomfort. If you find during treatment that the numbing agent is not strong enough and you experience discomfort stronger than you are able to bear, PRO-NOX (laughing gas) will be made available to you.
After Your Radio Frequency Microneedling Treatment
There is little to no down time for this treatment! Most patients will experience redness and some swelling for a few hours after treatment. These symptoms should be mild and resolve fully after 24 hours. The treated area may feel warm as if you have had a mild sunburn.
Avoid applying anything to your skin for the next 6 hours, unless you are directed otherwise. Use a gentle cleanser for the days following your treatment. Protect your skin with SPF 30 or higher. We recommend using a zinc oxide/titanium oxide based sunscreen (mineral-based) for best protection. Avoid exercise, saunas and hot showers for 24 to 48 hours after your treatment. Do not use exfoliating products or use retinol for 7 to 10 days after your treatment.
Complete written instructions will be given to you at your appointment. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the office or talk to your aesthetician during your appointment!
Pre and Post Care Instructions
Schedule Your RF Microneedling Consultation
Ready to experience the transformative benefits of RF Microneedling? Schedule a consultation at Eterna Vein & Medical Aesthetics in Puyallup, Washington, and discover how our advanced skin rejuvenation treatments can help you look more youthful. Call us today at (253) 268-3400 to book your appointment.