TREATMENT TIME
30-45 minutes
LONGEVITY
3 - 12 months
ANAESTHESIA
None
DOWNTIME
Little to None
Radio Frequency (RF) Skin Tightening
Radio Frequency is a popular skin tightening treatment that delivers anti-ageing results.
Among the many skin concerns, ageing is certainly one of the most popular with clients wanting to lift, firm and reduce skin laxity. While many clients assume a surgical face lift treatment is the best solution, there are actually several non-invasive treatments we can do that achieve great results and are certainly easier to manage. One of the top treatments for reducing the signs of ageing is radio frequency.
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Radio Frequency skin tightening is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses radio frequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity.
RF is a safe skin tightening technique that uses radio frequency energy to heat the skin with the purpose of stimulating collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production.
How it works
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RF devices emit radio frequency waves that penetrate the skin.
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The heat generated by the waves causes collagen fibers to contract triggering the body to produce new collagen, resulting in tighter & firmer skin.
Benefits
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Stimulates collagen production to reduce wrinkles & fine lines.
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Tightens sagging skin.
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Reduces the appearance of pores.
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Improves skin tone & texture.
Procedure
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Visible results may be seen after one treatment, but optimal results are typically achieved after a series of treatments (3-6).
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The results can last for several months to a year, depending on factors such as skin type and lifestyle.
Radio Frequency skin tightening is a non-invasive and effective treatment for improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles. It is a safe and well-tolerated procedure that can provide noticeable results.
RADIO FREQUENCY FAQ
WHAT IS RADIO FREQUENCY? Radiofrequency (often abbreviated as RF) is a popular treatment that use electrical currents through an electrode to generate electromagnetic waves. Unlike regular electrical currents, the level of wave frequency does not interfere with the neuromuscular structure in our skin so can be safely used for medical and aesthetic practices. When radiofrequency is conducted through the skin, it penetrates down to the subcutaneous layers and produces an exothermic reaction (creates heat). The skin can heat up to 38–40 degrees during RF treatments! This has many positive physiological effects on the dermis including tightening, firming and brightening. This is because the thermal reaction causes the contraction of collagen in the short term and collagen synthesis in the long term, tightening the underlying skin structures without damaging the top layer. It is particularly effective on areas that commonly suffer from skin laxity such as the brows, jowls, jaw and neck. Skin looks lifted even after just one application.
WHAT IS A RADIO FREQUENCY TREATMENT? Radio Frequency treatments last between 30 to 45 minutes. The session includes a tailored cleansing facial to clear the skin of impurities before a conductive gel is applied and the RF device is used to tighten the skin. Following this a cocktail of serums and moisturiser is applied.
WHO IS RADIO FREQUENCY FOR? The ideal clients for radio frequency are middle aged clients beginning to see signs that denote a degradation in skin firmness. These clients may also benefit from combining radio frequency with other advanced treatments as while radio frequency alone will help to remodel tissue to lift, firm and tone the face, it does not address any surface issues on the skin. I may recommend radio frequency to coincide with cosmetic injectables to help plump and hydrate areas that will no longer produce collagen.
DOES RADIO FREQUENCY HAVE ANY DOWNTIME? Following radio frequency, many clients will experience redness but this quickly dissipates, particularly with application of cooling gels and calming products, so there’s very little downtime with the treatment.
HOW MANY RADIO FREQUENCY SESSIONS DO I NEED? The number of radio frequency treatments needed in a course depends on the client’s individual skin laxity, but for truly visible results, I would suggest between 3 - 5 sessions spaced out monthly. By using the technology consistently, it ensures maximum contraction and synthesis of collagen production, even affecting the more resistant cells.
WHO SHOULD NOT HAVE RADIO FEQUENCY? While radio frequency is an extremely popular treatment for skin tightening, it is still limited in its effects. Contraindications include patients who suffer from significant amounts of redundant skin as they will not see the desired results, or patients who suffer from rosacea because they will see exacerbated symptoms due to the additional inflammation that occurs post-radio frequency treatments.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF RADIO FREQUENCY? Radio frequency can give you skin tightening results without the need for surgery. Other benefits include: - Gradual, natural-looking skin changes. - Fast, relatively painless procedure. - Less expensive and invasive than cosmetic surgeries. - No peeling skin or scarring. - Speedy recovery with no missed work or activities.
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER MY RADIO FREQUENCY TREATMENT? ​Sunscreen is a must (Well it should be used on a daily basis anyway... but definitely use it following radio frequency) and avoid direct sunlight wherever possible. ​ For the first few hours after treatments, try to avoid touching your face – this is precautionary best practice though, so don’t worry too much if you do touch your face. If something happens and you end up with visible dirt on your face, just make sure to remove it with a mild and gentle cleanser at the first opportunity. ​ In addition, we recommend the following aftercare tips: ​ Avoid the sun - For three days we recommend that you avoid direct sun exposure entirely, and definitely don’t sunbathe! Use moisturisers - Choose fragrance free natural moisturisers and serums to nourish and soothe your skin. Avoid heat - Likewise, so as to not exacerbate the redness, avoid too much heat for three days too. Keep your hairdryer away from your face, and don’t use saunas or steam rooms. Avoid scrubs and other exfoliation for at least one week. Don’t swim - Don’t go in a chlorinated pool or hot tub for a week following your treatment. Don’t exercise for 24 hours - To minimise sensitivity, redness, and the potential for outbreaks, avoid getting too sweaty for 24 hours following your treatment. Don’t wear makeup for 24 hours - We recommend avoiding makeup on your face for 24 hours following treatment. Avoid other treatments - If you’ve had radio frequency, you shouldn’t have any other facial treatments for at least a fortnight. ​ Your practitioner will explain the aftercare procedure to you thoroughly. Aftercare ensures you get the best results for as long as possible. Make sure you cleanse your skin daily, using only a mild face cleanser. Pat your face gently with a towel to dry, rather than rubbing it. Moisturise it and use a serum. Choose creams and serums rich in hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS HAVING RADIO FREQUENCY? Radio frequency skin tightening is a relatively safe procedure. You may have some mild redness and swelling (edema) after the procedure. These side effects should go away within 24 hours. In rare instances, extreme heat from radio frequency treatments can cause burns. It’s important to see a professional practitioner with experience for your radio frequency treatments rather than using unregulated home devices that may cause burns.