My Treatment Overview

I had one microneedling session with Radio Frequency (RF) (INTRAcel®) in 2022 for $1,000.

What is Microneedling with Radio Frequency?

It combines microneedling with RF to enhance skin tone, texture, and firmness. This treatment uses RF energy to deliver controlled heat to the dermis (the middle skin layer), stimulating collagen and elastin production through the body’s natural healing response. Microneedling with RF can improve skin laxity, reduce fine lines, and soften wrinkles. Results, however, are not permanent, generally lasting between one to three years.

How It Works

The treatment uses microneedling to create tiny injuries in the skin, which prompts a healing response and boosts collagen production. Simultaneously, radiofrequency energy heats deeper layers of the skin to further stimulate collagen growth, enhancing the treatment’s overall effectiveness.

Studies on RF Microneedling

Extensive research supports the effectiveness of RF microneedling for various skin concerns. A review of 42 high-quality studies revealed RF microneedling’s applications in skin rejuvenation, acne scarring, acne treatment, stretch marks, and even hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Additionally, it’s been shown to be safe for all skin tones and can be combined with other treatments, however I don’t understand how you would combine it with anything due the amount of pain. Research also indicates that RF microneedling produces slow, progressive improvements in skin texture and collagen levels, often peaking about six months after treatment. However, newer findings suggest that using RF too deeply can lead to facial fat loss, so choosing a highly qualified practitioner is essential.

It's possible to target fat reduction by adjusting the needle depth during RF microneedling. However, if the treatment is performed by someone without sufficient experience, unintentional fat loss can occur, affecting facial volume. To ensure safe and optimal results, it’s crucial to choose a provider with proven skill and whom you trust fully for this type of procedure.

My Personal Experience

Before the procedure, I had about 45 minutes of numbing, yet the experience remained quite painful—like a staple gun repeatedly pressing against my face. I required breaks during the session due to the intense discomfort and noticeable bleeding, which was unlike any other treatment I’ve tried. If you’re considering this, be prepared for substantial discomfort.

After the treatment, my skin was red, sore, and dotted with small bruises. In the following week, I noticed some brown spots that eventually flaked off, which made the healing process feel somewhat rewarding. However, the end results weren’t as dramatic as I had hoped.

Overall, while RF microneedling has potential benefits, be ready for considerable discomfort and potential concerns around facial volume loss.