The Secret RF for beautiful skin is finally out! Secret RF combines micro-needling and radio-frequency. This combination is brilliantly effective in treating aging skin, sun damage and scars on the face, neck and body. In fact, this combination offers all skin types one of the best chances for change in texture and improved skin quality.
Secret RF allows us to control energy intensity, energy depth and pulse duration. With this kind of control, precision treatments and superior outcomes are possible in comparison to most other devices, including lasers. Secret RF is safe for all skin types and most body areas. Further, treatments are associated with minimal downtime and very low chance of any complications.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Radio-frequency (RF) has been used for years to treat skin laxity, lines, wrinkles and acne scarring. As RF energy passes through skin layers, it causes collagen contraction and production of new collagen. Before the addition of micro-needling, the challenge was getting RF energy high enough and deep enough to significantly enhance results without damaging skin’s surface or causing facial fat necrosis.
Enter micro-needling.
Micro-needling has been used for years for skin rejuvenation, scars, stretch marks and other textural issues. With controlled trauma to the skin via needle penetration, the healing cascade is set into motion, stimulating fibroblasts for new collagen and elastin production and skin remodeling.
Micro-needling also is used to create micro-channels for delivery of topical medications and acids to enhance treatments. For instance, we often use our micro-needling device, SkinPen, with topicals such as TCA for tissue tightening and crepey skin, and hydroquinone or tranexamic acid for pigment issues such as melasma.
The Dynamic Duo
The combination of micro-needling with RF enhances results beyond what RF or micro-needling alone can achieve. Collagen contraction is intensified as RF energy now can reach deep dermal layers. The micro-needles (insulated or semi-insulated) work as conduits for the RF energy, carrying RF energy to the deepest layers where it is most beneficial. It is in the deeper layers (dermis) that collagen and elastin are produced, and tissue is regenerated. Bypassing the top layers of skin preserves the epidermis. When the epidermis is preserved, the risks of surface damage, such as hyperpigmentation and downtime, are significantly reduced.
WHAT IS THE SECRET RF PROCEDURE LIKE?
Patients typically are in the office for approximately 2 hours.
During the first hour, we take photos of the areas to be treated. We then apply numbing cream to this area for patient comfort.
While much literature on Secret RF states the treatment is a quick 15-20 minute session, it realistically takes about an hour for face and neck treatments. For areas such as hands and neck only, treatment time is greatly reduced.
The Secret RF treatment is tolerable for most patients. During the treatment, most patients say they feel a slight heating and some pressure on the treatment area.
It is recommended that patients refrain from wearing makeup for 24 hours. Minor redness and swelling can last from 12-72 hours. A sandpaper feel to skin is possible for up to a week post-treatment.
Patients can return to normal activities the following day.
For patients with a history of cold sores or shingles, taking an antiviral medication such as Valacyclovir is recommended.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS + HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?
Generally, 1-2 treatments are recommended for most patients with good skin quality. Additional treatments may be required for patients with scars, stretchmarks and moderate to more severe skin aging and sun damage issues.
Results vary depending on the individual.
Maintenance treatments are recommended every 12-18 months.
