RF Skin Tightening – Applications, Benefits & Side Effects + Cost

What is Fractional RF (Radio Frequency)?

One of the technologies used in recent years to treat skin wrinkles and laxity is radio frequency skin tightening. In recent years, radio frequency (RF) has been introduced as the treatment of choice. Extensive studies show changes in skin collagen fibers and improvement and repair of skin tissue as a result of radiofrequency skin tightening treatment.

RF causes the desired result by generating heat in the dermis (the lower surface of the skin) which is responsible for the production of skin collagen. When the appropriate heat stimulates the layers of the dermis, this heat is dispersed in the epidermis and makes it possible to rapidly repair layers of the skin.

Radio frequency is a type of energy that is measured as frequency or wavelength per second. All types of energy, from sound waves to gamma rays, are classified according to their frequency in the electromagnetic spectrum. Radio frequency skin tightening treatment minimizes the possibility of damage and side effects with high effectiveness.

Applications of Fractional RF

RF can be used to treat a large number of skin problems. Some treatments include:

• Fixing skin laxity
• Removing skin dullness
• Removing wrinkles and facial lines
• Rejuvenation
• Acne treatment
• Removing open skin pores
• Skin regeneration
• Treatment of stretch marks
• Reducing the appearance of cellulite

Does Radio Frequency Work to Tighten Skin?

Today, RF treatment is widely used in skin rejuvenation for both men and women to tackle common aging and skin laxity problems. The effectiveness of this method lies in the fact that it tries to reduce or remove cellulite and accumulated fat.

The radiofrequency skin tightening machine produces high-frequency radio waves that pass through body tissues. This causes the production of heat in excess body fat. As a result, RF is quite effective in treating cellulite and spot fat reduction in the abdomen, sides, thighs, arms, chest, and buttocks.

As a result of collagen production, eye puffiness, dark circles under the eyes, and superficial wrinkles will disappear. Radiofrequency skin tightening device can also be used to heat and stretch the skin with the aim of strengthening blood flow and breaking cellulite and fat. 

Where Can Radio Frequency Be Performed?

• Face
• Neck
• Décolletage
• Back of Hands
• Mummy Tummies
• Breast Lifting
• Brazilian Butt Lifting
• Cellulite
• Medial Knee Region
• Any area requiring tightening

Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Results

Radiofrequency skin tightening works in 2 separate phases:

• The immediate effects that cause collagen fibers and the skin to shrink, which can be observed immediately after RF.
• The delayed effect when collagen cells start the repair process, which is caused by Radio frequency stimulation. These results can be seen after a few months.

An example of work done with RF

Advantages of Fractional RF

• Can be performed on all areas where there is a loss of skin elasticity
• Improves the appearance of lines and wrinkles
• Reduces the appearance of cellulite.
• Non-invasive and little downtime
• Minimally painful
• No surgery or anesthetic required

Radiofrequency skin tightening treatment is an easy, non-surgical method that reduces fine skin lines and laxity and increases skin elasticity and texture overall. One of the most important benefits of this treatment is stimulating and increasing collagen and elastin production, as well as improving blood flow. These key factors help to naturally rejuvenate the skin within a few months.

Radiofrequency Skin Tightening Before and After

Before Treatment

• No particular care is required before radiofrequency skin tightening. But generally, try not to be exposed to direct sunlight and not tan your skin 2 weeks before the treatment
• If you have received laser therapy, you should wait at least 3 months and if you have exfoliated your skin, you should wait a few weeks before returning to receive RF.
• Avoid blood thinners before treatment.
• Let your therapist know if you have had Botox or blepharoplasty surgery.
• Before performing RF, the skin must be clean and free of any cosmetics.

Radiofrequency Skin Tightening Aftercare

• Other in clinic facials including IPL, Laser, or Exfoliation treatments such as chemical peels or microneedling, should be avoided for a week prior to and a week following an RF treatment.
• Exercise, swimming, spas, and anything that involves increasing your body temperature, should be avoided for 24-48 hours (about 2 days).
• A 30+ sunscreen should be applied immediately following your treatment and reapplied as necessary over the next 72 hours (about 3 days).

In Relation to Radio Frequency treatments, side effects are extremely rare; however, there are some possible side effects.

• Prolonged pain
• Excessive and persistent skin redness
• Excessive and persistent swelling
• Damage to natural skin texture (crusting, blister, burn)
• Allergic reactions
• Irritated skin
• Bruising
• Scarring
• Transient skin break-outs such as acne and/or pimples

Radio Frequency Contraindications

• Pacemaker or internal defibrillator
• Superficial metal or other implants in the treatment area
• Severe concurrent conditions, such as cardiac disorders
• Pregnant and nursing mothers
• Impaired healing disorders
• History of diseases stimulated by heat, such as Herpes Simplex in area
• Poorly controlled endocrine disorders, such as diabetes
• Any active condition in the treatment area, such as sores, psoriasis, or eczema
• Use of Roaccutane within the last 6 months
• Other skin sensitizing medications within the last 2 weeks
• Facial laser resurfacing and deep chemical peeling within the last 3 months
• Any surgical procedure in the treatment area within the last 6 weeks (about 1 and a half months)

Final Word

Non-ablative radiofrequency is a procedure commonly used for the treatment of skin laxity through an increase in tissue temperature. Because of thermal safety concerns, the skin surface temperature is maintained below 46°C.

Fractional RF is a device used to beautify and fix skin defects. RF laser is used for skin rejuvenation and tightening and has a favourable effect on the skin. This method is known as one of the less invasive methods that can be used for all types of skin at different ages. Radio Frequency uses the application of an oscillating electrical current. In Brilliant Skin Australia, we use a bi-polar RF device as opposed to a monopolar one to achieve safer and more precise results.

FAQs

Is fractional RF allowed during pregnancy?

It is recommended that people who are pregnant do not use this method. In general, electromagnetic waves may have mutagenic effects on the fetus, so the treatment should be postponed until after breastfeeding.

Is there a difference between RF and bi-polar RF?

Bi-polar Rf device has two handpieces instead of one which will help the therapist to exactly lead the current where they want it to be.

Is radiofrequency skin tightening safe?

Yes, if the treatment is done in a reputable center using the latest technology available, radio frequency skin tightening is a completely safe procedure.

How long does RF skin tightening results last?

The results can last for up to 12 months with proper maintenance and skincare.

Can radio frequency damage your skin?

The radiofrequency does create controlled small injuries to the lower levels of the skin, but the procedure is safe for all skin types due to the minimal damage and melanin changes.

How often should you do radio frequency skin tightening?

The number of radio frequency skin tightening treatments needed will depend on the client's skin laxity, but in most cases between three to five sessions are recommended over a period of three to five months.