Radio Frequency for Skin Tightening

What is Radio Frequency?

Radio Frequency (RF) is a form of electromagnetic current that has been used therapeutically for various medical conditions for decades. It is now popularly used as an FDA-approved, non-surgical aesthetic procedure for tightening the skin and improving skin texture to promote an overall youthful complexion. 

The procedure uses a small device to deliver uniform heat to the skin at a controlled depth. The energy waves penetrate deep into the layers of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. This heating process up-regulates skin turnover, breaks up fat tissue, and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, ultimately enhancing skin firmness, thickness, and elasticity. 

It is a gentle and scientifically proven approach to fighting the effects of aging, sun-damage, and/or poor health on skin quality. RF is suitable for different skin tones and target areas include the face, upper neck, and underarms. RF is ideal for young adults (in their 20s-30s) who want to rejuvenate their appearance and prevent early aging, as skin laxity tends to set in between ages 35 and 40.  

The pros of Radio Frequency treatments:

Unlike invasive anti-aging procedures like ablative lasers and surgical facelifts, RF is non-invasive and essentially painless. It has an excellent safety profile, without concerns of scarring or other negative side effects. The form of radiation used in RF skin tightening procedures releases about 1 billion times less energy than x-rays. 

The length of the procedure depends on the size of the skin area treated – in general, it should take 45 minutes for a small area, 60 minutes for a medium area, and 90 minutes for a large area. Note: There may be redness, swelling, and tenderness for 1-3 days after the RF treatments followed by peeling. You will be instructed to apply a protective ointment and sunscreen to the treated skin but no bandages or downtime is needed! 

The best part is that results are first experienced anywhere from immediately after treatment up to 24-48 hours after treatment. This makes it a popular procedure to have done 1-2 days before big events, like weddings, formals, and photoshoots! Even better news is that since the collagen growth cycle is 3-4 months, continual improvement will be seen in the months following treatment!

Radio Frequency treatments at LIVV:

At LIVV, we offer an age-prevention package that includes 6 treatments (1 treatment a week) for optimal results. To treat visible signs of aging, we recommend 8-10 treatments (1 treatment a week). RF can be used in conjunction with other non/minimally invasive procures such as injectables and micro-needling.

For more intense signs of aging, we may recommend a more advanced treatment using our morpheus8 device. The morpheus8 treatment, commonly referred to as the non-surgical facelift, combines micro-needling and RF to maximize anti-aging benefits for the skin. RF can be used alongside this treatment and/or for maintenance. 

In summary, RF is a gentle and effective skin-remodeling therapy that promotes growth and repair of skin cells, giving you a natural and instant glow! Give us a call to set up your consultation with one of our specialists at LIVV who can direct you to the right treatment for your skin!

Written by Jordan Valdez, ND, RD

https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/are-radiofrequency-treatments-really-safe/