Radiofrequency microneedling in aesthetic practice

Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling has become a popular treatment in aesthetic clinics with good reason: it is safe and effective, with minimal downtime in all skin types. The treatment can be used as a standalone or in combination with a variety of treatments.

RF microneedling uses sharp needles to penetrate the skin and pass non-ionising electromagnetic radiation through the dermis. There are two types of needles: insulated and non-insulated. Non-insulated microneedles emit radiofrequency energy over their entire surface area, allowing both the upper and lower layers of the skin to be heated at once. Insulated microneedles have a layer of insulation around them, which allows the heat to only be emitted from the end tip, heating just the lower layers of the dermis and sparing the epidermis.

Non-insulated needles tend to cause more downtime and are more painful but are thought to provide better results. The author could not find any split-face studies comparing the two types. There are also semi-insulated needle devices.