Does Radiofrequency Skin Therapy Really Work?

The idea of using radio waves to improve your skin’s texture and appearance may seem unbelievable, but radiofrequency skin therapy is a legitimate procedure performed by plastic surgeons, aestheticians, and dermatologists.

2 Minute Read:  The idea of using radio waves to improve your skin’s texture and appearance may seem unbelievable, but radiofrequency skin therapy is a legitimate procedure performed by plastic surgeons, aestheticians, and dermatologists. Radiofrequency, or RF, procedures have been a viable option for tightening and rejuvenating skin since 2001. However, RF has become much more popular and well-known in recent years. 

WHAT IS RADIOFREQUENCY SKIN THERAPY?

RF is a category of energy on the electromagnetic spectrum. This kind of energy is measured in frequency — or wavelengths — per second. The RF category includes very common types of energy, such as WiFi signals, microwave ovens, and radio or television waves. HOW DOES RADIOFREQUENCY AFFECT SKIN? RF energy can produce heat, just like any other type of energy. Targeted RF heats deep, underlying layers of skin. Heat increases skin cell turnover, which means new cells grow to replace older cells. It also triggers the increased production of two proteins, collagen and elastin, that provide support and elasticity to our skin. These combined effects cause thicker, firmer skin with a youthful appearance. 

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LASER TREATMENT AND RF? 

Lasers use a form of energy with a higher frequency than radio waves. RF treatment can be more effective than lasers in certain cases because radiofrequency energy can reach deep layers of skin cells, while laser energy is usually focused on the skin’s surface. Changes in underlying layers can improve skin tone and enhance support. Radiofrequency therapy is also appropriate for a wide range of skin tones because it won’t cause discoloration. 

IS RF ENERGY SAFE?

Although studies on RF energy and its safety have been done by some organizations, no conclusive evidence has found a link between RF exposure and cancer risk. Radiofrequency skin therapy provided by an experienced dermatologist is very safe. A study from the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery found that energy-based treatments, including RF therapy, were the second most common dermatologic procedures in 2019. 

WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT PROFOUND® RADIOFREQUENCY THERAPY? 

Profound® radiofrequency therapy uses microneedling and RF energy together to achieve optimal results. Tiny needles pierce the skin, so RF energy reaches targeted tissues directly instead of traveling through the upper layers of skin first. Profound® RF treatment is usually applied to facial skin, but it can be used almost anywhere. Common sites include the neck, arms, face, stomach, thighs, and underarms. Profound® RF is a non-surgical procedure, so it doesn’t cause scars and treatment sessions don’t take up much time. The minimal downtime lets you return to your regular routine quickly. 

WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT RF SKIN TIGHTENING? 

Call the offices of Pearce Plastic Surgery, or contact us online for more information about radiofrequency skin therapy or to schedule a consultation for your Profound® treatment.