Radiofrequency needling
As the name suggests, radiofrequency needling (RF needling) combines two treatment methods: microneedling and radiofrequency therapy. In microneedling (medical needling), the skin is treated with a special roller or a pen-like device. The device features numerous tiny needles that create minute wounds in the skin. This stimulates skin regeneration.
In radiofrequency therapy, radiofrequency energy is delivered into the tissue. There, it causes a rise in temperature, which leads to the contraction of connective tissue. As a result of this thermal effect, the skin’s elasticity and firmness are improved. In addition, the treatment stimulates the body’s own production of collagen and elastin.
How does radiofrequency microneedling work?
First, the treatment areas are thoroughly cleaned and numbed with an anesthetic cream. Then, the small handpiece is placed on the skin. Fine gold-plated needles repeatedly penetrate the dermis at varying depths. The penetration depth is determined in advance and precisely controlled. With fractional microneedling, the depth can be adjusted between 0.1 and 4.0 millimeters. Radiofrequency energy is delivered into the tissue via the needles. This results in targeted heat generation.
The goal of the treatment is to initiate wound healing and cell renewal. At the same time, the heat deep within causes the connective tissue fibers to contract and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. The new collagen network tightens the skin, pores shrink, and scars become less noticeable. Skin quality is thus visibly improved.
Quick Facts
Type of treatment: minimally invasive (no surgery)
Treatment duration: 30–60 minutes
Anesthesia: local anesthesia (cream)
Downtime: typically 1–3 days
Results: visible after 2–3 months; final results after about 6 months
Duration of effect: approx. 6–12 months; for scar treatment: permanent results
Special considerations: avoid direct sunlight for about 2–3 months; use high SPF sunscreen
Risks: low risk; mild swelling, small bruises, redness, pigmentation changes
Cost: starting at € 329
What is radiofrequency microneedling suitable for?
RF microneedling can be used for various treatments. It has primarily established itself in the field of anti-aging.
- Wrinkle treatment
- Skin rejuvenation
- Skin tightening
- Refinement of large pores
- Reduction of scars (e.g., acne scars)
- Reduction of stretch marks (striae)
- Hyperhidrosis treatment (excessive sweating)
- Cellulite treatment
For which skin types is radiofrequency microneedling suitable?
Radiofrequency microneedling can generally be used on all skin types and at any age.
For which areas of the skin is radiofrequency microneedling suitable?
In principle, RF microneedling can be performed on the entire body. Common areas include, among others:
- Face
- Neck
- Deckolleté
- Underarms
- Hands
- Thighs
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Questions and Answers
The duration of the microneedling treatment depends on which areas of the body are being treated and the extent of the treatment. Smaller procedures are completed in as little as 30 to 45 minutes. More extensive treatments can take up to an hour and a half.
The method is considered extremely gentle and virtually painless. The application of a special ointment numbs the treatment areas locally. Additionally, the needles only generate heat after penetration, so the upper layers of the skin are not affected by the temperature. Even after radiofrequency microneedling, pain usually does not occur.
About a week before the microneedling, patients should stop taking blood-thinning medications if possible to reduce the risk of bruising. Ideally, no makeup should be applied immediately before the treatment so that the areas are as unirritated as possible. After radiofrequency microneedling, patients must protect the treated skin areas from direct sunlight to prevent unwanted pigmentation. These areas should be protected for at least six to eight weeks. It is best for patients to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher if they must be in the sun.
For legal reasons in Germany, a before-and-after photo comparison of radiofrequency needling may not be published. Therefore, unfortunately, no image files are provided on this page. However, to get an initial insight into the treatment’s possibilities, patients may view before-and-after images of radiofrequency needling during their individual consultation at the practice upon request.
Most often, the treated skin areas are reddened and slightly swollen after the procedure. In some cases, small bruises may also be visible for a few days. It can take up to ten days for all traces of the treatment to heal. However, if desired, makeup can be applied after two to three days to conceal the minor discomfort. Physical exertion should be avoided on the day of treatment. After one to three days, the majority of patients are ready to go out again.
Microneedling with radiofrequency energy is a gentle and low-risk procedure for skin rejuvenation. Possible side effects include:
- Hyperpigmentation
- Redness
- Temporary swelling
- Hematomas (bruises)
- Inflammation, infections (rare)
- Excessive scarring (rare)
- Peeling or crusting of the skin
Microneedling should not be performed if there are injuries or inflammation in the treatment area. Known skin conditions or systemic diseases such as coagulation disorders, autoimmune diseases, or psoriasis also contraindicate the procedure. Additionally, Dr. Bravin-Jumpertz’s practice does not treat minors, pregnant patients, or breastfeeding patients. A thorough examination and a personal consultation with the specialist take place prior to the microneedling session.
At the start of the skin rejuvenation process, two to three RF microneedling treatments are generally recommended to achieve optimal results. The individual sessions are scheduled six to eight weeks apart. Afterward, it is recommended to repeat the treatment every six to twelve months to refresh the appearance of young and healthy skin.
Initial results become apparent within the first two to three months after radiofrequency microneedling. The final results can be assessed after about six months.
The duration of the effect of radiofrequency microneedling depends on the area of the body where it is applied and the specific goal of the treatment. For wrinkle treatment and general skin rejuvenation, it is usually recommended to repeat the treatment after six to twelve months. If radiofrequency microneedling is used to reduce scars or stretch marks, permanent results are possible.
The cost of radiofrequency microneedling depends, among other factors, on which areas of the body are to be treated. The size of the treatment area also plays a role. The price range can therefore only be determined after a personal consultation between the patient and the doctor. In addition to their individual treatment plan, patients at Dr. Bravin-Jumpertz’s practice receive a treatment and cost estimate, which the expert will be happy to explain.