Radiofrequency as an Aesthetic Modality

As an Aesthetician, or Skin Therapist, one of the most commonly asked questions is "What can you do to help aging skin?". There are lots of ways to help prevent, actively treat, and protect the skin from showing the obvious signs of aging, but today we will be focusing on just one specific modality, or treatment, that can be performed during a professional skin therapy session.

One of the most commonly sought after and well known, non-invasive age fighting treatments is Radiofrequency. It has been actively used and continuously studied in many industries; most often seen being utilized within medical communities and facilities. In most recent years, and with no surprise, Radiofrequency has greatly risen in popularity with aesthetic, skin therapy, and dermatology practices.

So what is Radiofrequency? We will be examining it as a skin therapy modality, along with its efficaciousness in maturing or aging skin.

Radiofrequency is a unique, non-surgical, FDA approved facial modality that uses radiofrequency wavelengths to penetrate deep into the skin; promoting healthy tissue contraction and stimulation, helping to benefit patient's concerns with the visible effects of aging skin.

To have a full understanding of what Radiofrequency is and how it functions, let's talk about the process of skin aging. There are many factors that contribute to, or kickstart, the process of aging skin, aside from our inevitable maturing. The number one cause of premature or noticeably aging skin is sun (UV) exposure. Alongside this, skin pollutants, hereditary factors, and a patient's at home skin care routine can play a very large role. Chronological skin aging causes the modification of genetic material through enzyme and protein changes. The process reduces cellular proliferation along with loss of tissue elasticity, reduced ability to regulate aqueous exchanges, and insufficient tissue replication. In turn, the skin's appearance is negatively affected by cumulative changes in coloration, texture, and elasticity.

Working as an electricity-based thermal energy (heat) treatment, Radiofrequency travels through the lower layers of the skin into the deeper, dermal layer. The resistance of the skin as the energy travels through prompts a tightening of existing cells and stimulation of new collagen fibers; achieving a more toned and plumped appearance with no downtime.

The effects of Radiofrequency treatment continue to improve over the next weeks and months as new collagen is being produced. Many clients are happy with just one single session, while others may prefer ongoing treatments for a longer lasting result.

Even when used as a single therapeutic modality, it seems to meet the expectations patients have in reducing the effects of skin aging.

Looking into a number of concluded clinical studies, it was found that the greater majority of study participants reported a noticeable improvement of laxity, texture, fine lines, and wrinkles of the skin; being generally pleased with the skin's self-rated improvements at two weeks, six months, and one year post-treatment. Overall, the study evaluation showed significant signs of

improvement; with confirmation that Radiofrequency treatment improves skin elasticity and appears to be beneficial to patients of all ages and skin types.

In summary, Radiofrequency is known to be a great treatment when performed in a professional setting; safe for all skin types and proven safe for clients with melanin-rich skin tones. Treatments can be scheduled for patients 18 years or older with skin goals being: the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, crows feet, smile lines, laugh lines, and the tightening of sagging or crepey skin.

With realistic expectations, most clients are highly satisfied with their results - Dr. Martha Stewart

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References:

www.drmarthastewart.com/radiofrequency-wrinkle-reduction

Chipps LK, Bentow J, Prather HB, So JJ, Schouest JM, Ozog DM, Moy RL. Novel nonablative radio-frequency rejuvenation device applied to neck and jowls: clinical evaluation and 3-dimensional imaging analysis. J Drugs Dermatol. 2013 Nov;12(11):1215-8. PMID: 24196328.

Huth J. La radiofréquency cutanée
[Cosmetic radiofrequency]. Rev Laryngol
Otol Rhinol (Bord). 2010;131(2):163-6
French. PMID: 21284234.

Taub AF, Tucker RD, Palange A. Facial tightening with an advanced 4-MHz monopolar radiofrequency device. J Drugs Dermatol. 
2012 Nov;11(11):1288-94. PMID: 23135076

Bonjorno AR, Gomez TB, Pereira MC, de Carvalho CM, Gabardo MCL, Kaizer MR, Zielak JC. Radiofrequency therapy in esthetic dermatology: A review of clinical evidences. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 Feb;19(2):278-281. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13206. Epub 2019 Nov 6. PMID: 31691477