RF Microneedling.Tighter skin.

What it is.

RF microneedling is two technologies stacked into one handpiece: traditional microneedling creates thousands of micro-channels in the surface layer of the skin (which alone signals collagen production); radiofrequency energy delivered through those needles heats the deeper dermis to remodeling temperatures. The combined injury triggers a coordinated wound-healing response — neocollagenesis at the surface, neoelastinosis at depth — that builds visibly tighter, smoother skin over the following 8–12 weeks.

It's the closest non-surgical analog to a face-tightening result. No incisions, no anesthesia beyond topical numbing, no hospital. The trade-off is patience: results build, they don't appear day-of.

What we treat.

• Skin laxity — face, neck, jawline, and submental area where the skin has lost firmness with age.
• Acne & surgical scars — atrophic ("ice pick" or "boxcar") acne scars and post-surgical scarring respond particularly well to RF microneedling.
• Stretch marks — abdomen, thighs, and breasts; both newer (red) and mature (white) marks improve.
• Large pores & texture irregularity — refines pore size and overall surface texture.
• Fine lines & wrinkles — periorbital, perioral, forehead.
• Décolleté — sun-exposed crepiness on the chest where filler isn't appropriate.
• Hands — restores firmness to the dorsal hand skin.

What to expect.

Plan for 90 minutes total. The first 30–45 minutes is topical numbing — an essential step, and one we don't rush. Once you're numb, the treatment itself runs 20–40 minutes depending on area. You'll feel pressure and warmth, not sharpness. Most patients describe it as far more tolerable than they anticipated.

Expect skin to look like a sunburn for the first 24 hours: redness, mild swelling, and pinpoint marks that fade to a slight bronzing by day two. By day three you can apply makeup again. We'll send you home with a barrier-supportive recovery kit and clear written instructions.

Appointment

~90 min

Downtime

2–3 days

Series

3 sessions

Lasts

12–18 months

Results & cadence.

Most clients book a series of 3 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. You'll see initial softening at 2–4 weeks; the full collagen-driven result reveals itself 3–6 months after the last session. Maintenance is typically a single session every 12–18 months, depending on the rate of natural collagen turnover. Pairs naturally with PRP/PRF (applied topically post-treatment to accelerate recovery) and with Sculptra (deeper structural restoration alongside dermal remodeling).

Considerations.

Common, expected effects: redness, mild swelling, pinpoint bruising for 24–72 hours. Less common: prolonged sensitivity, transient hyperpigmentation in deeper skin tones (we titrate depth and energy accordingly). RF microneedling is deferred during isotretinoin (Accutane) use and for 6 months after; in clients with implanted pacemakers or electronic devices; during pregnancy and breastfeeding; with active infection at the site; and in patients with a history of keloid scarring.

Who performs it.

RF microneedling at Privé is performed by Devin Rogers, our Licensed Laser Technician and Laser Safety Officer. Treatment depth and energy are calibrated to your skin type and goals at every session, with photographs documented before and after.