Too much sun which results in photo-damage, and just your genetics can cause those unwanted fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin which are all too common as we get older. Our skin is helped to keep its toned, plump and firm appearance by producing the two proteins elastin and collagen, although that production process slows down after we reach the age of 30. Your skin also becomes less elastic over time, as the two proteins start to disintegrate as we age. However, new elastin and collagen can be produced by the process of radio frequency skin tightening, and even as we age, the fine lines and wrinkles will start to disappear, and our skin will appear tighter. This guide to radio frequency skin tightening part 1 of 2 will explain the safe, quick and effective process.
How Radiofrequency works to tighten your skin
The production of new elastin and collagen is stimulated by heat; that same heat process also leads to skin that looks younger, thicker and firmer. The other common collagen inducing method would be Collagen Induction Therapy for woman. All radio frequency (RF) applications work in much the same way, regardless of the brand. Just like other beauty procedures like High Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Face, RF skin tightening is a non-invasive and high effective beauty procedure.
Whereas the surface of your skin is improved if you use a laser, the RF process can safely lift tissues and improve the structure and tone of your skin as it’s able to penetrate more deeply. It does of course, take someone who is skilled in the use of the technique to administer the treatment both effectively and safely.
The Science of Radio Frequency
If physics wasn’t your favorite subject at school, this hopefully won’t be too confusing in explaining how it all works so well. The frequency on what is known as the electromagnetic spectrum determines how different types of energy are categorized; this includes energy such as sunlight, gamma rays that are extremely radioactive, and the sound waves coming from your iPod. Some energy types are those we use on a daily basis, such as microwaves, TV and radio as well as the Wi-Fi that gets us online. These common energy types fall under the category of radio frequency and are measured in wavelengths per second, just like other energy types. If it sounds alarming, there’s no need to be; the wavelength that’s utilized in RF skin tightening is a lot slower than an X-Ray, over a billion times slower. And the wavelength of the light we can see is about 100 million times faster.
Side Effects of Radiofrequency Skin Tightening
Recovering after the procedure is easy and quick, making the ease and efficiency of the RF process one of the biggest advantages. Depending on the treatment, you may experience a slight tingling, redness, or temporary swelling; these side effects are usually short in duration and minimal. Minimally invasive treatments such as microneedling or injectables can safely be carried out at the same time as RF.
The most common side effect for most people is a slight tenderness and some minor redness in the area that’s been treated. Keep in mind that for 24 hours following your treatment, you shouldn’t apply make up or take any exercise.
How Long does radio frequency skin tightening last?
To enjoy the best results from your RF treatment, you should plan on having multiple sessions. Your technician may suggest that you have between two and ten radio frequency sessions, or up to five ultrasound treatments. It all depends on your individual situation and the results that you are looking for, although the treatment sessions require little recovery time afterwards. The superficial layers of your skin are targeted with microneedling, while the deeper layers of skin located above your muscle are targeted by the ultrasound process.
Is RF Skin Tightening Safe?
Radio Frequency radiation has been classed as being possibly carcinogenic, which places it in the same category as body powder, power lines and even coffee. Extensive studies of Radio Frequency have been made, as it’s used for so many things and of course, every day we are all exposed to TV, cell phones and Wi-fi emitting very low amounts. Other similar procedures fat removal with high intensity ultrasound have also proved to be safe and popular with many women. In other words, it’s safe and there isn’t anything to suggest that the risk of cancer is higher for people who are exposed to RF.
Detailed reports on the possible effects of exposure to Radio Frequency have been issued by both the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) and the American Cancer Society. The FCC has concluded that a link to cancer or similar conditions has not been found, although there has been a possible link between exposure and the formation of tumors in laboratory rats that were exposed for longer than normal. People exposed to high doses of RF can potentially be burned from the thermal heating effect, especially if they aren’t using adequate protection when working with radar equipment; this is the biggest risk of using Radio Frequency skin tightening.
If RF isn’t performed correctly and safely, there is a risk of burns, and just as you would carefully choose a provider of cosmetic surgery, you should be careful and sensible when choosing a professional to carry out RF. Working with a technician who is adequately trained in RF skin tightening, and has the relevant experience and knowledge of the process, can eliminate the chances of being burned during the treatment.
To be sure your RF treatments are both effective and safe, consider using a cosmetic surgeon who is board certified. The technology used should be tested thoroughly and should have received FDA approval. Safe treatment can also be administered by a registered nurse or physician’s assistant, although he or she should be supervised by a board certified surgeon and should meet the criteria described above.
If you are considering a particular Radio Frequency skin tightening provider or facility, ask to see some ‘before and after’ photographs of their patients. They should also have experience of your specific skin type and issue; don’t be afraid to ask how many times they have carried out the treatment. Remember that Radio Frequency skin tightening is an effective and extremely safe procedure when carried out correctly, and it requires very little recovery time afterwards, although it shouldn’t be seen as a permanent answer for fighting signs of aging. However, this safe and easy treatment eliminates the need for a more invasive procedure, whether you do it yourself at home, or visit a dermatologist.