Radio-frequency (RF) frequencies are an invisible form of energy in the electromagnetic spectrum. Machines that emit this energy are invaluable for skin tightening without pain and without any downtime. It is a non-invasive treatment, where the energy acts on the deeper layers of the skin, causing alternating movement of water molecules. The resulting thermal energy from this movement stimulates fibroblasts and collagen production. Collagen and skin remodeling lead to skin tightening. Because it is a non-invasive method, a sufficient number of sessions are required to achieve the desired result. Also, the spacing between sessions is important. It is an ideal method for rejuvenating and tightening skin that has relaxed due to aging, sun exposure, and elastosis, even smoking. It also leads to an improvement in the appearance of cellulite, although in our clinic, we have a specialized shockwave machine for this problem, which can be perfectly combined in the same session.
Application of RF Skin Tightening
Before application, the area is cleaned, and a water-based gel is applied to facilitate energy induction. Then, the appropriate head for the area is selected. During the session, the trained operator passes the head over the skin surface many times with circular motions, gradually increasing the temperature. The temperature is monitored with a special infrared thermometer and never exceeds 43 degrees Celsius, so the process is completely painless. Each area must be worked on for at least 20-30 minutes per session. Then the gel is cleaned, and you can return to your daily activities. The next session usually takes place in a week, and at least 8 sessions are required for optimal results.
Areas where RF is Applied
The most common applications are on the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen, but essentially, they can be applied to all areas of the body, including the arms and lower face with a specific small head.
Are all machines the same?
In general, radio frequencies are divided into monopolar and bipolar. In monopolar machines, energy penetrates deeper, but since it does not have a specific path (between 2 poles/electrodes), it disperses more, and thus, some of this energy is lost. On the contrary, in bipolar machines, the energy leaves one pole (electrode), passes through the skin and upper layers, and is directed towards the other pole. It is a more controlled method with uniform energy distribution, but it does not reach deep enough for maximum results. It is, therefore, a more superficial application.
The machine we have has a patented unique technology that allows it to combine both the depth of monopolar and the control and uniformity in the distribution of bipolar energies. Basically, it is a multi-polar machine. Placing multiple electrodes next to each other on the head that comes into contact with the skin creates parallel waves that travel between successive electrodes. Waves from the 2 electrodes on the periphery (further out) penetrate deeper into the skin than waves from those closer to the center, traveling between the more central electrodes. This happens with the same logic that two like poles of a magnet repel each other. This way, we combine the best properties of both types of machines, and thus, we can achieve maximum results in fewer sessions.
Combination of RF with other methods
We achieve extremely impressive results by combining radio frequencies for skin tightening with shockwave therapy for cellulite reduction. This combination allows for dramatic changes before hitting the beach!
Alongside RF, we can also apply body threads. Placing multiple polydioxanone (PDO) threads leads, due to trauma and the foreign body reaction it causes, to the production of new collagen. This method has results on its own, but combined with radio frequencies, the results multiply.
Needle RF
Here, we essentially have small specialized needles that enter the skin and when they are in the deeper point (a few millimeters), they release energy in the form of radio frequencies. Thus, the effect is directly on the desired target, which is the deeper skin, bypassing the surface. This thermal energy acts around each needle targeted and causes regeneration and collagen production, resulting in tightening, without significantly affecting the epidermis. However, the application requires some form of local anesthesia, at least the application of anesthetic cream.
It can help dramatically and clearly requires fewer sessions than the non-invasive use of radio frequencies described above, in matters of skin relaxation on the body and face. It is an excellent and safe, minimally invasive method for treating body stretch marks, scars, and facial wrinkles, and for dark skin, although its high effectiveness makes us prefer it even for lighter skin compared to fractional CO2 laser.
Cost of Applications
Book an evaluation appointment so that we can decide together which technique will benefit you the most, as well as which combination of treatments will have the best synergistic result. Our prices are very competitive, and in a package of sessions, especially with machine combinations, an even better overall price can be achieved.
