Allure MD Plastic Surgery + Dermatology Introduces Revolutionary New RF Microneedling Technology
Experience the latest advancement in skin rejuvenation with our new state-of-the-art RF microneedling system.
Medically Reviewedby Dr. James Rosing, MD, FACS
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What Is RF Microneedling?
RF microneedling is one of the most versatile and effective treatments in modern aesthetic medicine. It combines two proven skin rejuvenation technologies — microneedling and radiofrequency energy — into a single treatment that addresses a remarkable range of skin concerns, from fine lines and acne scars to skin laxity and enlarged pores.
The basic principle is straightforward: ultra-fine needles create controlled micro-channels in the skin while simultaneously delivering radiofrequency (RF) energy directly into the dermis — the deeper layer where collagen and elastin are produced. This dual mechanism triggers a robust healing response that stimulates new collagen and elastin production, tightens existing collagen fibers, and remodels the skin from within.
What makes RF microneedling particularly compelling is its ability to deliver significant results with relatively minimal downtime. Unlike aggressive laser resurfacing or surgical procedures, most patients experience only 1 to 3 days of redness and can return to their normal routine quickly. At Allure MD in Newport Beach, RF microneedling is one of the most frequently requested treatments — and one that Dr. Rosing and his team consistently recommend for patients seeking meaningful skin improvement without surgery.
How RF Microneedling Works
Understanding the science behind the treatment helps explain why it is so effective.
The Microneedling Component
Microneedling alone has been used in dermatology for years. The principle is simple: creating tiny, controlled injuries in the skin triggers the body's wound-healing cascade — a process that produces new collagen and elastin as part of the repair response. Traditional microneedling does this mechanically, using a device with fine needles that puncture the skin at precise depths.
The limitation of microneedling alone is that the collagen stimulation, while real, is relatively superficial. The needles create their effect primarily through mechanical disruption, and the depth of the healing response is limited by the depth of the needle penetration.
The Radiofrequency Component
This is where RF microneedling goes significantly further. At the tip of each needle, radiofrequency energy is emitted directly into the dermis once the needles have reached their target depth. This RF energy creates controlled thermal zones — areas of precisely heated tissue that:
- Contract existing collagen fibers immediately, producing a visible tightening effect that is apparent even after the first treatment
- Stimulate neocollagenesis (new collagen formation) over the following weeks and months, as the body responds to the thermal stimulus by building fresh, organized collagen
- Trigger elastogenesis (new elastin production), improving skin elasticity and bounce
- Remodel scar tissue by breaking down disorganized collagen in scars and replacing it with healthy, organized collagen
Because the RF energy is delivered through the needles directly into the dermis, the skin surface (epidermis) is largely spared. This is a critical advantage — it means the treatment can deliver powerful energy deep into the skin while minimizing surface damage, which translates to faster recovery and lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation compared to laser treatments.
Depth Control and Customization
Modern RF microneedling platforms offer precise control over several key parameters:
- Needle depth — Adjustable from 0.5mm to 4mm or more, allowing the provider to target superficial concerns (fine lines, pores) or deeper issues (acne scars, laxity) in different areas of the same treatment
- RF energy level — Variable power settings that can be increased for more aggressive treatment or decreased for sensitive areas
- Treatment density — The number of RF pulses per area, which can be adjusted based on concern severity
- Temperature monitoring — Real-time temperature feedback on advanced systems ensures safe, consistent energy delivery
This customizability is a major advantage. A treatment for deep acne scarring on the cheeks uses entirely different settings than a treatment for fine periorbital lines. Your provider can adjust every parameter to match the specific concern, skin type, and treatment area.
What RF Microneedling Treats
The versatility of RF microneedling is one of its greatest strengths. It effectively addresses:
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
The collagen-stimulating and skin-tightening effects of RF microneedling can soften fine lines and moderate wrinkles, particularly around the eyes, mouth, forehead, and neck. While it does not replace the need for a facelift in patients with significant laxity, it can meaningfully improve early to moderate signs of aging.
Acne Scars
RF microneedling is one of the most effective treatments available for acne scarring. The combination of mechanical disruption and thermal remodeling breaks down the fibrous scar tissue that creates the depressed appearance of acne scars, stimulating the body to replace it with healthy, organized collagen. Multiple treatment sessions can produce dramatic improvement in scar depth and skin texture.
Skin Laxity
The immediate collagen contraction and long-term collagen remodeling produced by RF energy can tighten mildly loose skin on the face, jawline, neck, and body. This makes RF microneedling valuable for patients who notice early laxity but are not candidates for — or not interested in — surgical intervention.
Enlarged Pores
By tightening the skin around pore openings and stimulating collagen production in the surrounding tissue, RF microneedling can visibly reduce pore size. This is particularly effective on the nose, cheeks, and forehead where pores tend to be most prominent.
Uneven Skin Texture and Tone
The collagen remodeling process improves overall skin texture, smoothing rough patches, reducing dullness, and creating a more even, refined surface. Many patients describe their skin as looking "healthier" and more luminous after a series of treatments.
Stretch Marks
RF microneedling can improve the appearance of stretch marks by stimulating collagen production in the affected areas. While stretch marks cannot be completely eliminated, their depth, color, and texture can be meaningfully improved.
Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
When targeted at sweat glands in the axillary (underarm) area, RF microneedling can reduce excessive sweating by selectively damaging overactive sweat glands. This application has become increasingly popular as an alternative to Botox injections for hyperhidrosis.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
RF microneedling is suitable for most skin types and tones — an important advantage over many laser treatments, which carry a higher risk of pigmentation changes in darker skin. Good candidates include patients who:
- Want to improve skin texture, fine lines, scars, or mild laxity without surgery
- Have acne scarring and are looking for a treatment with proven effectiveness
- Have good overall skin health without active infections, severe acne, or open wounds in the treatment area
- Can commit to a series of treatments (typically 3 to 4 sessions) for optimal results
- Are looking for a treatment with minimal downtime
RF microneedling is not recommended for patients who are pregnant, have active skin infections in the treatment area, have implanted electrical devices (such as pacemakers), or who have a history of keloid scarring (as any treatment that creates micro-injuries could trigger keloid formation in predisposed individuals).
What to Expect During Treatment
A typical RF microneedling session at Allure MD takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area.
Preparation (20-30 minutes). A topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area approximately 20 to 30 minutes before the procedure. This ensures comfort during treatment. The skin is then cleansed and prepared.
Treatment (15-30 minutes). The RF microneedling device is applied systematically across the treatment area. With each stamp of the device, the needles penetrate to the preset depth, deliver RF energy, and retract — all in a fraction of a second. Most patients feel a combination of mild prickling and warmth. The topical numbing makes the treatment comfortable for the vast majority of patients.
Your provider adjusts the needle depth and energy settings as they move across different areas — shallower and gentler around the eyes and lips, deeper and more aggressive on the cheeks and forehead where skin is thicker and concerns like scarring may be more significant.
Immediately after treatment, the skin will appear red and slightly swollen, similar to a moderate sunburn. Your provider may apply a soothing serum, growth factors, or hyaluronic acid to the freshly treated skin. Because the micro-channels are open, the skin absorbs topical products more effectively immediately after treatment — a benefit that advanced practices leverage by applying collagen-stimulating serums or platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
Recovery and Downtime
One of the major advantages of RF microneedling over more aggressive treatments is the relatively short recovery period.
Day 1: Redness and mild swelling, similar to a sunburn. The skin may feel warm and tight. Avoid makeup, active skincare products, and sun exposure.
Days 2-3: Redness fades to a pink tone. Some patients experience minor flaking or dryness as the micro-channels heal. Gentle, hydrating skincare is recommended. Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities by day 2.
Days 4-7: Skin returns to normal appearance. You may notice that your skin looks slightly brighter or smoother even at this early stage.
Weeks 2-12: Progressive improvement as new collagen develops. The full effect of each treatment builds over 2 to 3 months, which is why results look better with time.
Results: What to Expect
Results from RF microneedling are both immediate and progressive.
Immediate effects include a subtle tightening from collagen contraction and a healthy glow from the stimulated healing response. These effects are noticeable within the first week after treatment.
Progressive improvement occurs over 3 to 6 months as the body produces new collagen and elastin. Skin texture smooths, pores appear smaller, fine lines soften, and scars become less prominent. Most patients see the most significant improvement after completing a series of 3 to 4 treatments.
Cumulative results build with each session. While a single treatment can produce visible improvement, the recommended series of 3 to 4 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart produces the most comprehensive results.
Maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months can help sustain and build upon the initial results, counteracting ongoing aging and collagen loss.
Why Choose Allure MD for RF Microneedling
The quality of RF microneedling results depends on several factors: the device used, the skill and experience of the provider, and the treatment settings selected. At Allure MD in Newport Beach, RF microneedling is performed by experienced providers under the direction of Dr. Rosing, a Stanford-trained, FACS-certified physician with over 14 years of experience in aesthetic medicine.
The practice uses medical-grade equipment with the latest technology, and every treatment is customized based on a thorough consultation that evaluates your skin type, concerns, and goals. Whether you are addressing acne scars, seeking skin rejuvenation, or looking for a complement to other treatments, the team at Allure MD will develop a plan tailored to your specific needs.
To learn more about RF microneedling or to schedule your consultation, contact Allure MD at (949) 706-7874.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medical treatments. Individual results may vary. Dr. James Rosing and the Allure MD team are available for personalized consultations.
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