Radiofrequency energy is a type of electromagnetic current. It is used to cause molecular vibrations that induce heating of the skin’s dermal layer to cause thermal damage prompting the denaturation and contraction of collagen fibrils. Fibroblasts are stimulated, prompting new collagen formation and elastin development, effectively tightening soft tissue and reducing skin laxity. Radiofrequency has also been shown to reduce pore visibility, even skin texture and reduce sebum production in oily skins.

An immediate result can be visible for the first 36-72 hours post-treatment before the tissue undergoes a period of relaxation for 7-10 days, after which skin contraction returns. It has been evidenced that continuous improvement is made, with long-term results lasting between 8-14 months.

It is recommended that a course of 6-8 treatments be received between 14-28 days for optimum results.

Post-treatment, it is common to experience redness and slight swelling, which should remedy itself within hours of the treatment. Radiofrequency remains a popular non-invasive treatment choice due to its high safety profile and minimal downtime. It is also suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types.

Further reading and references:

Dayan et al. (2020) ‘The Use of Radiofrequency in Aesthetic Surgery’, International Global Open Access Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Available at: doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000002861

Gold, M. & Biesman, B. & Taylor, M. (2017) ‘Enhanced high-energy protocol using fractional bipolar radiofrequency device combined with bipolar radiofrequency and infrared light for improving facial skin appearance and wrinkles’, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Available at: doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12322

Kwan et al. (2020) ‘Skin Tightening’, Cosmetic Dermatology. Available at: doi:10.12788/cutis.0073

Mazzoni et al. (2019) ‘Review of non-invasive body contouring devices for fat reduction, skin tightening and muscle definition’, Australasian Journal of Dermatology. Available at: doi: 10.1111/ajd.13090

O’Connor, Kandula and Kaminer (2021) ‘Non-surgical skin tightening’, Plastic and Aesthetic Research. Available at: doi.org/10.20517/2347-9264.2021.60

Rohrich et al. 2022) ’ Minimally Invasive Approach to Skin Tightening of the Face and Body: Systematic Review of Monopolar and Bipolar Radiofrequency Devices’, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Available at: doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000009535

Suh et al. (2021) ‘Can a radiofrequency device reduce the pore size?’, Lasers in Medical Science. Available at: doi.org/10.1007/s10103-021-03373-3