Radio Frequency Fractional Needling

What is Radio Frequency Fractional Needling?

Radio Frequency (RF) Fractional Needling is also known as fractional radio-frequency and it is a non-surgical treatment option that uses combination of two effective technologies; radio-frequency and micro-needling. The combination of these allows for enhanced and deep results.

RF Fractional Needling is a resurfacing alternative to ablative laser treatments. The treatment uses tiny microneedles and RF energy to produce micro-channels of ablation and coagulation (similar to an ablative laser device). However, unlike most lasers, the treatment is not dependant on a focused target such a melanin, meaning it is suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types. Venus Viva RF needling also uses the SmartScan algorithm to ensure there is a safe and uniform delivery of energy into the skin, which in return reduces associated risks.

The RF generates a desired heat injury leading to ablation at both an epidermal and dermal level. Ablation refers to the removal of tissue by vaporisation and this is necessary when we want to regenerate and resurface the skin. As the treatment is “fractional” this means only a fraction of the skin is being targeted and treated, purposefully leaving sections of the skin to completely intact, which accelerates the recovery timeframe.

Additionally, coagulation refers to denaturation of proteins. As our skin is made up of proteins, this treatment application causes coagulation and consequent destruction of old damage proteins. This process encourages and stimulates the production of new proteins which leads to a rebuilding and strengthening of structural proteins within the skin. This process is also used to coagulate the micro channels exposed to ablation, ensuring the injury remains minimal and controlled.

RF Microneedling is successful in the treatment of:

• Enlarged pores

• Lines and wrinkles

• Uneven texture and tone

• Skin tightening

• Acne scars

• Surgical or trauma scars

• Skin atrophy

• Stretch marks

• Photo-damaged skin

This treatment is frequently used to treat the face and neck. The Venus Viva device is also safe and suitable to use on the body when treating skin conditions such a scars and stretch marks.

A course of treatments may be required to achieve best results and your treatment program will be guided by our experienced Dermal Clinicians.

In order to achieve optimal results, usually a series of 3-4 treatments is recommended at 4-6 week intervals. The number of required treatments varies from patient to patient and depends on your individual concerns and condition severity. A more specific treatment plan will be indicated during your initial consultation.

Before your treatment:

• Commit and adhere to the cosmeceutical skincare plan recommended to prep and prime your skin before starting the treatment program

• Please refrain from wearing jewellery to your appointment; earrings or necklaces cannot be worn during the treatment

• Ensure you come to your appointment with no makeup or fake tan on treatment area

• Stop use of active products (e.g. retinol, AHAs) or prescription topical agents (e.g. epiduo) for 3-5 days before your appointment

• Avoid direct sun exposure and wear SPF 50 every day for at least two weeks before your treatment

During the treatment:

• The treatment usually only takes between 60- 90 minutes in total

• An effective numbing agent will be applied to the skin to minimise discomfort

• The numbing agent will be removed after 30-45 minutes and the treatment will begin

• The level of discomfort associated with this treatment, deeply depends on what area of the body and the skin condition we are treating. For example, for superficial concerns such as texture, tone and rejuvenation, the treatment is very tolerable and essentially pain free. For deeper more complex conditions such as scars and stretch marks, the treatment may be more intense and uncomfortable. The discomfort can be described as feeling like a heated pinching sensation

• The treatment will be finished with calming and protective products applied to the skin

After the treatment:

• There is minimal to moderate downtime associated with this treatment

• There can be mild redness and swelling that may last

• There may be some pinpoint bleeding, but this usually resolved within an hour post treatment

• We highly recommend refraining from wearing makeup for at least 24-48 hours after your treatment. If you must apply makeup, please only use mineral makeup brands that have been approved by your Dermal Clinician

To ensure you get the best results from your RF microneedling treatments we recommend the following:

• To reduce downtime, use the specific aftercare products that your Dermal Clinician has recommended to you

• Avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 50+ daily

• Avoid excessive exercise or activities that increase heart rate and body temperature for 24 hours post treatment

• Avoid exfoliating the skin for at least 7-10 days’ post treatment. This includes both chemical and physical exfoliating products

• A cosmeceutical skincare routine will be developed for you to enhance and maintain your results in between your professional treatments

Venus Viva RF micro needling is a safe treatment, however with any cosmetic treatment, there are risks involved that are rare:

• Scarring

• Pinpoint bleeding (short term)

• Bruising (short term)

• Infection

• Acne breakout (usually only in individuals that are prone to breakouts)

• Hyperpigmentation