Radio-frequency skin tightening is an aesthetic technique that uses radio frequency (RF) energy to heat tissue and stimulate subdermal collagen production in order to reduce the appearance of fine lines and loose skin. The technique induces tissue remodeling and production of new collagen and elastin. The process provides an alternative to facelift and other cosmetic surgeries. RF treatment also causes apoptosis of fat cells, which leads to fat layer reduction in the treated area.
By manipulating skin cooling during treatment, RF can also be used for heating and reduction of fat. Currently, the most common uses of RF-based devices are to non-invasively manage and treat skin tightening of lax skin (including sagging jowls, abdomen, thighs, and arms), as well as wrinkle reduction, cellulite improvement, and body contouring.
“Radiofrequency is all about stimulating your own collagen production. During a treatment a machine is used to heat the skin to between 38-40 degrees with radiofrequency, which feels like a hot stone face massage – you do feel heat in the skin but it’s comfortable.”
Is there any other discomfort or downtime involved?
“It takes approximately 30 minutes to treat a whole face and the only discomfort is some feeling of heat in the skin (which not everyone gets). There is no downtime – you could easily have a treatment at lunchtime and go out that evening looking amazing!”
What are the benefits and how long do they last?
“You get an immediate tightening of the collagen fibers, so it’s great to do before an event, but it also gives a long-lasting lift and increased volume. It also continues to promote collagen production over the four-six weeks following a treatment.”
Can radiofrequency help reduce lines and wrinkles?
“It’s great for softening fine lines – especially the nose to mouth lines – as well as lifting the cheeks and tightening the jawline, so it’s great for age prevention.”