Seattle Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling Services
RF Microneedling refers to an advanced type of energy device used to treat acne scars, or to improve the quality of the skin by promoting new collagen and elastin production. This is especially useful in the treatment of thinning skin and skin laxity. There are numerous brands of RF microneedling devices on the market. We have the VirtueRF by Cartessa and the Infini by Lutronic. During an RF microneedling treatment, tiny micro-needles are inserted through the skin into the deeper dermis layer. The tips of the needles release radiofrequency (RF) energy, generating heat within the tissues. This heat leads to remodeling of the tissue with new collagen and elastin gradually produced as a result. The tissue remodeling process will continue with ongoing improvement over the course of months. There is also surface-level skin improvement due to the mechanical needling. We use this treatment most commonly on the face and neck. However, the VirtueRF has additional handpieces customized for larger areas of the body or for very focal areas like the undereye area.
One of the main benefits of RF microneedling is the shorter downtime. Because the remodeling is deeper within the skin, most of our clients feel the downtime is only 1-2 days. We expect mostly redness and some mild swelling during the first couple of days. RF microneedling is safe for all skin types and can be done year-round, even during sunny weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downtime like?
Most clients will have initial redness at the time of the treatment that subsides quickly within the first hour. It takes 24-36 hours for the residual redness and swelling to dissipate. In rare cases, redness can extend for a few more days. Bruising is also rare, but possible in areas of thinner skin such as the neck or around the mouth. Visible needle marks tend to last longer on clients with darker skin types or older clients who heal more slowly. In our experience, this should resolve within 7-10 days. It is okay to wear makeup the day after the treatment.
How does the treatment feel?
You will feel pressure from the handpiece being pressed against the skin. We use a strong numbing cream prior to the treatment as well as a cold air chiller during the treatment to reduce any discomfort from the needles. The heat production causes a very brief sting sensation. We can adjust our settings as needed for tolerance. Following the treatment, there shouldn’t be any significant pain. You may have a mild warm, sunburn sensation after the treatment.
How long before I see results?
This procedure works by remodeling your existing collagen (or scars) and stimulating new collagen to form. The full process may take up to six months. However, clients usually begin to see changes within a few weeks with most of the changes occurring in the first three months.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on the client’s goals and the degree of correction needed. In general, the more treatments one does, the more results they will see. Many people will see significant results after one treatment. Acne scars or more severe looseness of skin will require 2-3 sessions for best results. Some people will do this treatment once a year as a way to continuously promote new, healthy collagen and elastin.
Which is the better treatment for acne scars? RF Microneedling or CO2 resurfacing?
The best way to decide which treatment is best for you would be to come in for a free consultation to discuss. There are several factors that will determine the safest and most effective option for your skin type. There are different opinions about which treatment is better for acne scars. Interestingly, the first study to directly compare the two methods was published in April 2023 in Copenhagen. They treated 15 patients, and used CO2 resurfacing on half the face, and used RF microneedling on the other half. The results showed that the two treatments were equally effective at improving texture in skin with acne scars. Each method has its own list of pros/cons. CO2 is only safe for our lighter skin clients (skin types I-III) whereas RF microneedling is safe for all skin types. CO2 has additional benefits on reducing sun damage, pigmentation and pre-cancerous skin changes. But, CO2 has a much longer downtime (typically 5-7 days vs 1-2 days with RF microneedling). CO2 resurfacing also requires avoidance of prolonged sun exposure before and after the treatment.
Can RF Microneedling be combined with other treatments to increase results?
Yes! One of our most requested treatments is to combine VirtueRF with CoolPeel (a light CO2 resurfacing). This combo is called the “Ultimate Duo”. With this treatment, you are remodeling both the deeper layers of the skin as well as the surface of the skin with typically no increase in downtime. Our clients usually report only 1-2 days of redness and some mild flaking of skin. You can also add platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections to these treatments, which boosts collagen and elastin production and also improves healing rates.
Results
Pricing
Treatments are sold by area. Areas include the neck, lower face, and upper face.
One area: $1,200
Two areas: $1,800
Three areas: $2,100
Body treatments (up to the size of a sheet of paper): $1,200
Under eye rejuvenation (eye bags, festoons): $950 (additional $250 for light CO2 resurfacing)
We also offer a discount if you receive a second or third treatment in the first six months. This discount is 10% off the second treatment and 20% off the third treatment. Due to the length of time we reserve for Infini treatments we require 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule your procedure to avoid $100 cancellation fee.
Schedule an Appointment
Call us at 206-216-4957 or fill out our request form to schedule an appointment. We look forward to treating you.