A magnificent nonsurgical radiofrequency (RF) therapy, which involves using energy waves to heat the dermis (the deep layer of the skin), has evolved as one of the finest treatments for skin tightening. The healthcare provider uses an electromagnetic device that generates heat to stimulate collagen production, the production of elastin, and the growth of new skin cells. This therapy helps firm and lift sagging skin. However, the results are temporary.
A Brief Note on Radiofrequency Skin Tightening
Radiofrequency therapy, also known as radiofrequency skin tightening, is a skin-tightening procedure that involves using energy waves to heat the dermis of the skin. Collagen production is stimulated by the heat.
Collagen is the protein that creates the framework of your skin and offers the skin its firmness. As we age, the cells produce less collagen, which results in wrinkles and sagging skin.
Radiofrequency skin tightening therapy has been used since 2001 to fight signs of aging, including sagging skin. Let us delve into and learn how this nonsurgical cosmetic RF therapy works and what its potential benefits for your skin are.
The Science behind Radiofrequency Therapy for Skin Tightening
Radiofrequency therapy for skin tightening is a usually takes less than an hour and is nearly painless. The RF waves heat the dermis or the deep layer of the skin to between 122 and 167 degrees F (50 to 75 degrees C.
Research indicates that keeping body temperature above 115 degrees F (46 degrees C) for more than 3 minutes triggers the release of heat-shock proteins, which promote the formation of new collagen fibers. (1)
As the skin gets new collagen fibers, sagging skin regains its firm shape.
Know About Radiofrequency Waves
Radiofrequency waves are a form of radiation. The release of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves is known as radiation.
Depending on the amount of energy released, it can be classified as high-energy or low-energy. X-rays are examples of high-energy radiation, while radiofrequency waves are low-energy. The radio waves, WiFi, and microwaves are all forms of radiofrequency waves.
The form of radiation used in radiofrequency skin tightening therapy releases about 1 billion times less energy than X-rays.
RF Skin Tightening: Therapy Details
Who performs the RF skin-tightening therapy?
Radiofrequency skin tightening can be performed by several providers, including dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons, and plastic surgeons. Some licensed aestheticians can treat at a medical spa.
What Happens Before RF Skin Tightening?
During your consultation, the therapist examines your skin and learns more about the treatment goals. You should let your therapist know if you have an active skin disease, are getting any skin treatments, or are pregnant.
What Happens During RF Skin Tightening?
This skin-tightening procedure takes about an hour, depending on the treatment area. One can go home immediately after the procedure.
During the procedure, your provider or the therapist cleans and sterilizes your skin and moves a hand-held radio frequency electrode device over the treatment area.
You may feel warm in the treatment area and may experience tingling vibrations and mild discomfort. Make sure to alert your providers if you feel an uncomfortable burning sensation.
Potential Benefits of RF Skin Tightening
Some of the most essential benefits of radiofrequency skin tightening treatment include the following.
The primary benefits of radiofrequency skin tightening therapy are tightening your skin and getting rid of wrinkles.
However, due to the ability to stimulate collagen production, RF therapy can also help fight sun damage.
Body Contouring
Radiofrequency skin tightening may help tighten loose skin by stimulating collagen production.
Research found that 24 of the 25 individuals who underwent 5 to 8 sessions of radiofrequency therapy saw an improvement in their body shape. (1)
Face Contouring
An eight-week study tested radiofrequency therapy combined with pulsed electromagnetic treatment and found improved facial firmness in all 11 participants, with nearly 73% of them having improvements in their face contour. (2)
Fighting Sun Damage
Being exposed to UV rays can cause the collagen fibers in our skin to break down and become disorganized.
Research from 2011 found that 3 months of radiofrequency treatment resulted in clinically significant improvements in a small group of individuals experiencing mild to moderate signs of sun damage. (3)
RF Therapy for Face Slimming
This nonsurgical radiofrequency skin tightening therapy has the potential to be used for slimming your face.
A study that looked at the effect of using radiofrequency therapy to break down fat in the lower face of 14 middle-aged Asian women showed that after 5 weeks, more that 90% of the women had a fat reduction, and 60% were satisfied with their results. (4) However, several hours after the procedure, mild redness was noted as a side effect seen in the participants.
Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Research looked at the effect of radiofrequency skin tightening therapy on wrinkles around the eyes of 70 middle-aged women. (5) It was found that three treatments over 6 weeks significantly reduced their wrinkles.
Risk Associated with Radiofrequency Skin Tightening Therapy
Usually, RF therapy is considered safe when performed by a certified surgeon. However, if the procedure is incorrectly performed, it is possible to get burned. Some other common side effects are redness, tingling sensation, and temporary swelling.
Individuals with dark skin are at a higher risk of side effects from radiofrequency treatments.
FAQs
Can RF therapy be conducted at home?
Several companies offer radiofrequency therapy devices for use at home. These can effectively treat sagging skin and wrinkles.
When should you call a doctor?
If you experience a skin rash, unexplained skin changes, or redness and swelling that lasts for several days, please call your healthcare provider.
How to find a provider?
While looking for a provider for radiofrequency therapy, you must look for someone certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.
Does RF therapy raise your risk of cancer?
Although the WHO has listed radiofrequency waves as potentially carcinogenic, and they might increase your risk of cancer, studies have not found any link between RF waves and cancer in individuals. The radiofrequency waves for these non-surgical cosmetic skin procedures are extremely low.
Final Thoughts
As we age, the quality and quantity of collagen fibers in our skin decline. Radiofrequency skin tightening can give a more youthful appearance without any surgical procedure. The heat from a radiofrequency device stimulates the production of collagen and helps improve sagging skin and wrinkles. This is generally considered to be a safe procedure.
