RF Microneedling Skin Tightening, Marylebone, London
When it comes to non-invasive cosmetic treatments for non-surgical skin tightening, RF Microneedling and Ultherapy have become increasingly popular. Both treatments offer a promising solution to combat signs of ageing, improve skin texture, and achieve a more youthful appearance without the need for surgery. However, despite their similar goals, the techniques and technology behind these treatments vary significantly. I’m frequently asked for my thoughts on different skin tightening devices, so, in this blog I explore two of the most popular – RF Microneedling and Ultherapy, focusing on their mechanisms, expected results, suitability, and how they compare with one another.
What is RF Microneedling?
RF Microneedling, or Radio Frequency Microneedling, is a cosmetic procedure that combines the traditional microneedling technique with radiofrequency energy. The treatment involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural healing process, promoting the production of collagen and elastin. The addition of radiofrequency energy enhances this process by delivering heat into the deeper layers of the skin, further boosting collagen production, and tightening the skin.
How Does RF Microneedling Work?
The RF Microneedling device punctures the skin with tiny needles and simultaneously emits radiofrequency waves through these microchannels. The heat from the radiofrequency energy penetrates the dermis, the skin’s deeper layer, encouraging the formation of new collagen and elastin fibres. This process tightens and rejuvenates the skin from within, leading to reduced fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and an overall improvement in skin texture and firmness.
What Results Should You Expect?
Patients can expect to see an improvement in skin texture, tone, and firmness after undergoing RF Microneedling. Results typically become visible within a few weeks of treatment, as the skin takes time to produce new collagen. With most devices, patients will require multiple sessions, spaced about 4-6 weeks apart, depending on the individual’s skin condition and goals. I, however, work with Profound RF which requires only one treatment session for optimal results. The full benefits of Profound RF typically become more apparent over the course of several months as the body’s collagen and elastin production continues to increase.
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
RF Microneedling is suitable for individuals looking to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and skin laxity. Profound RF represents a ground-breaking advancement in skin rejuvenation, offering a targeted and effective solution for various ageing concerns. With its ability to stimulate natural collagen and elastin production, this innovative procedure holds promise for individuals seeking significant and lasting improvements in skin quality, firmness and appearance.
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy, on the other hand, is a non-invasive procedure that uses focused ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin. Unlike RF Microneedling, Ultherapy specifically targets the foundational layers of the skin, including those typically addressed in a surgical facelift, without cutting or disrupting the skin’s surface.
How Does Ultherapy Work?
Ultherapy works by delivering focused ultrasound energy to the skin’s deeper layers, specifically targeting the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) layer. This energy heats the targeted tissues, causing them to contract and thereby lifting and tightening the skin. Additionally, the heat stimulates collagen production, leading to a natural and gradual skin rejuvenation process.
What Results Should You Expect?
Ultherapy results are not immediate; they gradually develop over 2-3 months as new collagen is formed, leading to a lifting and tightening effect. Some patients may notice initial improvements, but the full benefits of the treatment become more visible over time. Results can last up to a year or more, depending on the individual’s skin condition and ageing process.
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
Ultherapy is most suitable for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity who are not ready for a surgical facelift or looking for a non-invasive alternative. It is effective for lifting the brow, chin, neck, and improving lines and wrinkles on the upper chest.
How Does RF Microneedling Compare to Ultherapy?
While both RF Microneedling and Ultherapy aim to rejuvenate the skin by stimulating collagen production, they differ in their application and the layers of the skin they target. RF Microneedling is more focused on improving the skin’s surface texture, including scars, wrinkles, and overall firmness, by affecting both the epidermis and dermis. Ultherapy, conversely, targets deeper facial layers for lifting and tightening, making it more suited for structural rejuvenation rather than surface texture.
Which Treatment is Right For You?
The choice between RF Microneedling and Ultherapy depends on the individual’s specific skin concerns, goals, and the condition of their skin. For those primarily concerned with surface texture issues like scars, deep lines and laxity in the lower face, RF Microneedling (Profound RF) may be the more appropriate option. However, for individuals looking for a non-invasive lift and tightening effect, particularly around the eyes and neck, Ultherapy or Sofwave (which is the device I personally use), might be the better choice.
Both RF Microneedling and Ultherapy offer effective solutions for skin rejuvenation without the need for surgery. Understanding the differences between these treatments can help you make informed decisions about which procedure is best suited to their needs. Consulting with a qualified medical practitioner is crucial to assess suitability and develop a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your overall goals.
If you’d like to learn more about the various treatment options, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.