Radiofrequency facials promise to smooth, tighten and firm the skin without any downtime. Usually when one thinks about getting a facial, the vision comes to mind of relaxing lotions and oils being spread on the skin, not the words radiofrequency, sparking to mind the use of electrical currents. Similar to laser and LED treatments, radiofrequency uses energy to stimulate both collagen and elastin production but with heat energy rather than pulses of light. 

Radiofrequency treatment, referred to as RF skin tightening, has become increasingly popular as a gentle way to tighten up sagging skin. RF energy heats the dermis without damaging the epidermis, top layer of skin. Despite its name, radiofrequency currents flow through the cell and tissues without shocking the body. This is because nerves maintain electrical charges of their own. RF currents travel too rapidly to induce pain at the source. During treatment, RF stimulates the structures under the skin and with the heat it produces causing targeted but controlled damage. This causes collagen in the body to shrink and contract allowing the skin to lift and tighten. As the body begins to heal itself, fibroblast cells in the deepest layer of the skin begin to produce new collagen and elastin fibers, a process known as dermal remodeling. This new production increases the skin’s elasticity, erases fine lines and wrinkles, tightens and firms tissues, and improves the overall texture and volume of the skin. RF treatment also increases cell metabolism and works to detoxify tissues. The heat generated by radiofrequency helps blood vessels to widen both increasing blood flow and increasing the oxygen and nutrient flow to the cells creating overall healthier skin.

Like most facial treatments, RF skin tightening is not a one and done solution. It will take multiple treatments, usually between 6 and 12, for full effectiveness. The number of radiofrequency treatments will vary person to person and depend upon each patient’s skin laxity. Suggestions from doctors vary as well from as little to 1 week in between treatments to 1 treatment per month. Visiting with your dermatologist for your specific goals and care is advised. 

RF skin tightening can be combined with other facial rejuvenation treatments such as microneedling or dermaplaning. To find out which option is the right fit for you, schedule your consultation with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology by calling 602-867-7546 or visit us online at WEBSITE for more information.