RF Skin Needling (Potenza)

What is Radiofrequency (RF)?

Radiofrequency (RF), infra-red, and deep ultrasound options are available, effectively promoting neocollagenesis to firm, tighten, lift, and smoothen the skin. Different RF energies include:

• Biploar RF: combines two closely places active poles to ensure the energy is being delivered superficially into the skin (typically 1/1.5mm, but this can vary).
• Monoploar RF: Delivers energy into the tissue using a singular electrode – a grounding pad is also used for this type of energy.
• Multipolar RF: Utilizers multiple active poles the enable much deeper delivery of energy, though this is typically not as deep as monopolar.
• Unipolar RF: Differs from both bipolar and monopolar, and emits energy at a superficial to medium depth.

Monopolar RF is often preferred as it creates an electromagnetic field (AMF) with alternating polarity that stimulates charged particle movement, generating an electric current. This current effectively travels through hydrophilic structure like a dermal collagen framework and underlying fibrous septae, with less efficiency through subcutaneous fat. Tissue resistance leads to localized heat within collagen-based structures.

Collagen denaturation occurs at approximately 60-65°C, with little effect below 60°C and minimal results about 70°C. Monopolar RF induces neocollagenesis in the papillary dermis, upper, mid, and deep reticular dermis, as well as neoelastinogenesis in the papillary dermis and upper and mid-reticular dermis. While high-intensity focused Ultrasound (HIFU) may have more supporting literature, monopolar RF is considered a superior treatment method for neocollagenesis and neoelastinogenesis.

Collagen rejuvenation occurs gradually over a month post-treatment, with increased small collagen fiber formation evident at 30 days. Tissue changes, including neocollagensis, neoelastinogenis, and the deposition of new Hyaluronic acid, have been observed at 10 weeks after treatment within the denaturation range

Benefits of Potenza RF + Skin Needling

There are several benefits in treating the body with the Potenza which include:

• Increase in Collagen Production: Both RF and skin needling stimulate collagen products and we used together, enhance each other’s effects, resulting in a higher, more significant increase in collagen remodeling and skin tightening.
• Skin Tightening: RF generates heat which helps to tighten existing collagen fibers in the skin while simultaneously producing more collagen which leads to firmer and tighter skin.
• Scar Reduction: RF and skin needling can be effective in reducing the appearance of scars which include stretch marks and surgical scars. This is achieved through the breakdown of scar tissue and the stimulation of new, health cells within the treated area.

What areas of the body can be treated?

Treatment areas can vary depending on your specific concerns. Common areas treated with the Potenza RF + Skin needling include the arms, tummy, chest and thighs. It is important to not that the effectiveness of the Potenza RF + Skin needling depends on several factors such as the severity of the concern, skin type and the overall health of an individual.

How many treatments are required?

Generally speaking, multiple Potenza RF + Skin Needling treatments are required to achieve optimal results. Equally as important as the treatment itself, is the aftercare – following the provided after care instructions will optimise your treatment outcome and also minimise the risk of complications following treatment.

Is the Potenza treatment painful?

Upon arrival to our clinic, your Cosmetic Registered Nurse will apply topical anaesthetic to the treatment area(s). In addition, we do offer happy gas (nitrous oxide) if required.

Potential Risks

Although potential risks are extremely uncommon, one or more of the following may occur: 

• Lightening or darkening of the skin in the treated areas 
• Skin crusting or blistering  
• Infection  
• Scarring 

As part of your post-treatment care plan, you will be provided with verbal and written post-treatment instructions.