Radiofrequency Micro-needling

Radiofrequency micro-needling is an aesthetic medicine technique that combines fine needles (micro-needling) with the emission of radiofrequency waves within the dermis. This dual mechanical and thermal stimulus promotes collagen and elastin production and improves skin quality.

This treatment is suited to individuals wishing to address mild to moderate skin laxity, fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, irregular texture, or stretch marks. The goal is to improve skin harmony and quality, prioritising a natural and progressive result.

The following information is intended for general guidance and does not replace a personalised medical consultation.

Principles of Treatment

• General principle: micro-needling creates very small controlled perforations of the epidermis and dermis. The addition of fractional radiofrequency delivers targeted heat to the deep dermis, stimulating repair mechanisms and neocollagenesis.
• Type of device and areas concerned: various devices with adjustable tips and depths exist. The face (full face, neck, smile lines, contours) is the most common site, but treatment can also be applied to the décolleté, hands, stretch marks, and certain scars.
• Personalisation: parameters (needle depth, radiofrequency intensity, number of passes) are adapted to the patient's morphology, skin thickness, and aesthetic goals. An individual assessment is essential.

Session Process

• Prior consultation: clinical assessment, skin examination, history (previous treatments, isotretinoin, metallic implants, pacemaker, history of hypertrophic or keloid scars), explanation of benefits and limitations. A personalised treatment plan (number of sessions, spacing) is established.
• Preparation: application of a topical anaesthetic cream 30 to 60 minutes before the session depending on sensitivity. Information on precautions before treatment (temporary discontinuation of certain medications or treatments if necessary).
• Process: the session generally lasts 30 to 60 minutes depending on the area treated. The practitioner performs passes with the device, modulating depth and energy. The sensation felt can be described as tingling, mild warmth, or pressure.
• Comfort and safety: the procedure is performed in a medical practice under aseptic conditions. Parameters are chosen to limit the risk of burns and adverse effects.

Post-treatment Course and Results

• Immediate post-treatment effects: redness, warmth, mild swelling, possible bruising, and small localised crusts depending on needle depth. These signs decrease within a few hours to a few days.
• Onset of results: improvement in skin firmness and texture is progressive, often observable from 4 to 8 weeks, and continues over several months due to collagen synthesis.
• Number of sessions and maintenance: generally, a protocol of 3 sessions spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart is proposed, then maintenance sessions one to two times per year depending on individual response. Duration and intensity of benefit vary with age, lifestyle, and initial skin quality.
• Variability: results remain variable from person to person. No guarantee of results can be given.

Contraindications and Precautions

• Main contraindications: pregnancy and breastfeeding, active skin infection (herpes, folliculitis, shingles), uncontrolled autoimmune disease, tendency to hypertrophic or keloid scars, recently tanned skin, pacemaker or electronic implant (related to radiofrequency), presence of metal plates near the treated area.
• Medications and recent treatments: recent oral isotretinoin (generally to be disclosed if taken in the last 6–12 months), anticoagulants or coagulation disorders to be disclosed to the practitioner.
• Precautions: inform the physician of any dermatological history, presence of fillers or implants in the area, and follow post-procedure recommendations (sun protection, hygiene, avoid intense heat sources).

Risks and Possible Side Effects

• Common and transient adverse effects: redness, swelling, mild pain, skin sensitivity, crusting.
• Less frequent risks: local infection, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (especially in darker skin), hypopigmentation, persistent redness, bruising, prolonged pain.
• Rare but serious risks: skin burn from inadequate energy, abnormal scar, allergic reaction to the anaesthetic product.
• Management: these risks are explained at the consultation and measures to limit them (asepsis, parameter adjustment, medical follow-up) are implemented.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is the treatment painful? Most patients experience tingling and a warm sensation. Application of a topical anaesthetic cream generally reduces discomfort. The experience varies by area and chosen depth.

How many sessions are needed? A standard protocol includes 3 sessions spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart. The exact number is adapted during the consultation based on goals and skin response.

When can I resume daily activities? Most people resume normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. There may be persistent redness and mild crusting, depending on treatment intensity.

Is there a risk of pigmentation after treatment? A risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation exists, particularly for darker phototypes or if skin is exposed to the sun after the session. Strict sun protection and post-procedure precautions are recommended.