Every scar tells a story, but when it comes to acne scars, those memories are best not revisited. Acne scars are stubborn in every sense of the word, and no matter how dark or deep they are, they require the right solution and dedication to erase them permanently.
Acne scars range from small discolored spots to large indents and pocks on the skin. The more inflammatory or cystic the acne, the higher the risk of scarring and the deeper those scars may be. Also, different types of pimples can cause different types of scars, and where on the body the acne was active can also dictate what the scar looks like as it heals.
For the most part, acne scars that are more than discoloration on the skin, known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, fall into one of three categories:
- Ice pick scars: Deep but narrow scars that look like an ice pick. Deep cystic pimples cause these.
- Boxcar scars: Rounder scars that look like a crater are known as boxcar scars.
- Rolling scars: These scars have more of a pit-like look to them.
One of the best and most innovative treatments that smooth out the skin is RF microneedling for acne scars. The treatment is a non-invasive procedure with little to no downtime, and those who suffer from hard-to-erase acne scars say RF microneedling is a game changer.
How does RF microneedling work?
RF microneedling acne scar treatments work by stimulating collagen to minimize the look of existing acne scars. Whether your acne scars are dark, stubborn spots, or more indented on the skin, the treatment should always be performed as a series. Each session, which takes about one hour, uses tiny needles to make microscopic injuries on the skin’s surface. As these minor wounds heal, they naturally produce new collagen. The more healthy, fresh collagen in the skin, the less noticeable the scars become and the smoother the skin is.
If you’re asking yourself, “does RF microneedling work” the answer is yes, especially if there are clumps of abnormally formed collagen in the skin that leave behind uneven scars.
How long does RF microneedling last?
RF microneedling for acne scars provides long-lasting, permanent results. Any new collagen created in the skin will last indefinitely. However, that collagen will continue to age and break down like all other collagen in the skin, which is why maintenance treatments are often recommended to keep up the results.
Does RF microneedling make you look younger?
Yes, RF microneedling can make you look younger because it stimulates new collagen production. But beyond improving the quality and health of the skin, RF microneedling imparts Rf energy to the skin to help firm and tighten it. That is enough for plenty of patients to see a noticeable difference in their skin and a more youthful appearance. In-office professionally administered RF microneedling treatments are much stronger and more effective than at-home microneedling rollers, so don’t expect the same type of results with them.
Is RF microneedling better than Botox?
Botox and RF microneedling work differently, so it’s hard to say that one is better than the other. For example, Botox softens wrinkles and lines caused by repeated expression and movement. In contrast, RF microneedling helps stimulate new collagen in the skin to rejuvenate it and give it a firmer appearance. However, RF microneedling can also help improve the look of free-standing fine lines that may not be caused by repeat muscle movement.
However, both Botox and RF microneedling are effective treatments for all types of skin and skin tones. Some patients even combine the two procedures to achieve optimal results. It’s important to know that Botox is not a replacement treatment for RF microneedling, and RF microneedling is not designed to replace Botox.
How many RF microneedling treatments for acne scars will I need?
Every patient is different, and the number of RF treatments you will need to improve the look of your acne scars depends on the extent of the scars and your skin type. Some patients need more sessions than others, but on average, most benefit from at least three treatments every four to six weeks with regular maintenance sessions. Other skin-rejuvenating treatments, along with RF microneedling, may also be recommended to achieve the best result.
To determine how many sessions of RF microneedling you will need, contact our team to set up a consultation today.
Can RF microneedling be used on active acne?
RF microneedling can be done on active acne breakouts. Although RF microneedling for acne scars is shown to be excellent, the treatment can also help clear up any present blemishes because the RF portion of the treatment can help kill bacteria living in the pores and decrease sebum production. Still, RF microneedling is a go-to for acne scars.
As a bonus, there’s no downtime with RF microneedling, and the results start to surface after a few weeks, unlike other acne treatments, which take months to see any improvement.
Is RF microneedling worth it for acne scars?
Yes! RF microneedling can dramatically improve the look of acne scars. It can also help shrink overactive sebaceous glands, limiting oil production and reducing breakouts. Plus, RF energy helps firm the skin and improves skin texture and enlarged pores, so if loose skin, bumpy skin, and large pores are an issue, they will improve too. So while RF microneedling has clinical evidence that it’s beneficial in improving various types of acne scars, it’s effective in improving several skin conditions. One study showed that RF microneedling moderately improved acne scars in 58% of the subjects.
