What is Radiofrequency micro needling? How does it work?
Radiofrequency micro needling is a procedure used in skin rejuvenation to treat sagging skin, wrinkles and skin textural changes. It combines Radiofrequency technology with micro needling. Our microneedling device utilizes insulated sterile microscopic needles to deliver heat energy to a deeper layer of the skin (the dermis) which contains collagen (the supporting structure of our skin). By doing this, it encourages collagen growth, tissue tightening precisely at predetermined depths in the skin and refines the skin’s appearance.
In what situations do we use radiofrequency micro needling?
- Acne scarring
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Skin laxity
- Stretch marks
- Large pores
- Uneven skin tone
- Skin tightening
- Skin resurfacing and rejuvenation
- Also used in excessive armpit sweating
How do we prepare for and what do we expect during this procedure?
Just like every procedure that has the potential to cause inflammation, to reduce the chances of post procedure darkening especially in skin of color, we commence the use of sun protection and hypopigmenting creams 2 weeks prior. We cease intake of ginger, gingko biloba, garlic, ginseng, NSAIDS like ibuprofen, aspirin 2 weeks before procedure to reduce chances of bruising.
During the procedure we use topical anaesthetics to minimize pain, making it as comfortable for the patient as possible.
How many treatments are needed?
Three (3) or more treatments at 4 weekly intervals are required depending on the depth of acne scars, wrinkles, stretch marks etc being treated.
Downtime is minimal but skin typically has some redness and swelling after the treatment. For deeper needle treatments, redness and swelling could persist for up to 5 days.
Does it have side effects?
Side effects following this procedure are mild in nature, making this a minimal downtime treatment. For some patients, there may be mild pinpoint bleeding and a very small chance of bruising, infection and scarring. Typically, the skin has redness and some swelling for approximately 48 to 72hours. Itching is likely to occur while the skin in healing.
In what situations do we use this Laser hyperpigmentation treatment?
- Brown age spots (solar lentigines)
Freckles - Naevi: naevus of Ota, naevus of Ito, mongolian spots, Hori naevus and café-au-lait-macules.
- Dermal Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Exogenous ochronosis (Post bleaching darkening from long term use of hydroquinone)
It is recommended that patients have 2 to 6 treatments, approximately every 4 to 6 weeks apart to achieve desired results.
How do we prepare for and what do we expect during this procedure?
Just like every procedure that has the potential to cause inflammation, to reduce the chances of post procedure darkening especially in skin of colour, we commence the use of sun protection and hypopigmenting creams 2 weeks prior. We cease intake of ginger, gingko biloba, garlic, ginseng, NSAIDS like ibuprofen, aspirin 2 weeks before procedure to reduce chances of bruising.
During the procedure we use topical anaesthetics and a skin cooling device to minimize pain, making it as comfortable for the patient as possible.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects from Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser hyperpigmentation treatment are usually minor and may include:
- Pain during treatment (reduced by skin cooling and topical anaesthetic)
- Redness, swelling and itching after the procedure that may last a few days after treatment
- In some cases, blistering can occur (this settles by itself)
- Changes in skin pigmentation. Sometimes the pigment cells (melanocytes) can be damaged, leaving darker (hyperpigmentation) or paler (hypopigmentation) patches of skin. This is mostly temporary.
- Bruising affects up to 10% of patients. It usually fades on its own.
Skin can peel during the healing process.