RF Microneedling
Combining microneedling with radiofrequency to firm, smooth and renew the skin
RF microneedling brings two approaches together in one treatment: the controlled micro-channels of microneedling and the deep, targeted heat of radiofrequency. Together, they stimulate the skin's natural production of collagen and elastin, on the surface and in the deeper layers, to firm, smooth and renew the skin. At Dermapure, every RF microneedling treatment begins with a personalized consultation with our team to confirm whether it suits your skin and your goals, and to tailor the treatment, including the needle depth and the radiofrequency settings.
How RF Microneedling Works
During treatment, a tip fitted with very fine microneedles creates controlled micro-channels in the skin while delivering radiofrequency energy into the deeper layers. This combination of microneedling and dermal heating triggers the skin's natural repair response, supporting collagen induction and dermal remodelling that build over time. Because radiofrequency works on the structure beneath the surface, RF microneedling can firm and tighten the skin while also refining its surface texture. The needle depth and the RF energy are adjusted to your skin and the area treated.
RF Microneedling Devices
EndyMed Pro
EndyMed Pro uses 3DEEP radiofrequency, a multi-source, phase-controlled technology, paired with fine non-insulated needles. Because the energy is distributed evenly along the full length of each needle, it stimulates collagen throughout the dermis for firmer, smoother skin. It is often chosen for fine lines, enlarged-looking pores, stretch marks and overall tightening, with a comfortable, warming sensation and limited downtime.
Sylfirm X
Sylfirm X is a Dual Wave system that delivers both pulsed and continuous radiofrequency through thin, non-insulated needles. Its adjustable depth, from very superficial to deeper, lets it address skin texture, fine lines, pore size and acne scars, as well as redness and pigmentation concerns. It can be used in delicate areas, including under the eyes and directly over the eyelids, across a wide range of skin types, with minimal downtime.
Morpheus8
Morpheus8 uses fractional bipolar radiofrequency delivered through insulated microneedles, which concentrate the energy at the tip to reach the deeper dermal and subdermal layers. This deeper action supports collagen remodelling, firmness and a more contoured look, making it a frequent choice for more advanced skin laxity on the face, neck and body. Downtime is typically minimal to moderate.
Fractora
Fractora delivers fractionated radiofrequency through micro-pins that create controlled micro-lesions in the upper to mid dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin. With a more resurfacing-focused action, it is well suited to fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, acne scars and skin texture, and can be used on the face, neck and under-eye area. Downtime is usually minimal.
Follow-up and Maintenance
RF microneedling results build progressively as new collagen develops. The overall effect is usually visible 4 to 6 weeks after treatment and continues to improve over the following months. Most people benefit from a series of sessions, with the number and spacing tailored to your skin and your goals, along with periodic maintenance treatments to support the result over time. Because the skin is especially receptive right after treatment, an exosome therapy or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) add-on may sometimes be combined to support recovery and renewal. Your specialist will build a personalized plan with you.
Side Effects & Contraindications
As with any energy-based skin treatment, RF microneedling can cause side effects, most of which are mild and temporary.
- Common side effects: Redness, mild swelling, a feeling of warmth or tightness and occasional pinpoint bleeding are common in the hours to days following treatment, and usually settle on their own.
- Less frequent side effects: Temporary changes in pigmentation, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, can occur, particularly on richer or darker skin tones. Less frequently, infection, prolonged redness or, rarely, scarring may develop.
- Who should postpone or avoid treatment: RF microneedling may need to be delayed or avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in the presence of an active skin infection, open wounds or certain skin conditions in the treatment area, with a history of keloids, or with an implanted electronic device such as a pacemaker, because of the radiofrequency energy. Your specialist will review your medical history and contraindications with you.
Regenerative Add-ons
Exosome therapy
Plant-based exosomes are applied to the freshly treated skin, where the micro-channels help support their absorption into the upper layers. They are used to support skin renewal and hydration and a calmer, more comfortable recovery.
VAMP
A topical regenerative treatment built around PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotides) derived from salmon DNA, combined with hyaluronic acid and essential amino acids. Applied right after RF microneedling, it works with the skin's natural functions to support repair, hydration, texture and overall skin quality, without altering facial contours.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
An autologous add-on that uses a small sample of your own blood, processed to concentrate the platelets and growth factors that support tissue renewal. The concentrate is applied to the treated skin to encourage your body's natural repair and regeneration.
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF)
A next-generation evolution of PRP, also drawn from your own blood but prepared without additives or anticoagulants. PRF forms a fibrin matrix that releases growth factors more gradually, for a slower but longer-lasting regenerative effect that supports firmness and skin quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skin conditions can RF microneedling help improve?
RF microneedling is used to support a range of concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars and other scarring, enlarged-looking pores, uneven skin texture and tone, sun damage, stretch marks and mild skin laxity. By stimulating collagen and elastin in the deeper layers, it works on both the firmness and the surface quality of the skin. Your specialist will confirm which concerns are realistic to address for your skin.
Is RF microneedling safe, and who is a good candidate?
When performed by a trained professional, RF microneedling is generally well tolerated. Good candidates are typically people looking to improve skin texture, scars, fine lines or mild laxity without surgery, and who are in good general health. Because it relies on radiofrequency rather than light, it can often be adapted to a wide range of skin types and tones. Your specialist will assess your skin, your health and any contraindications to confirm whether it is appropriate for you.
How long does RF microneedling last?
Results are progressive and can last several months to over a year, depending on the device, the number of sessions, your skin and how it changes over time. Because collagen naturally evolves with age, periodic maintenance sessions help sustain the result. Your specialist will recommend a maintenance rhythm suited to your goals.
Is RF microneedling better than microneedling?
Traditional microneedling works mainly on the surface and mid layers to refine texture and tone, while RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy that reaches the deeper layers to support firmness and tightening. RF microneedling is often chosen when mild skin laxity or deeper remodelling is a goal. Your specialist will help you decide which is most appropriate for your skin and your goals.
How painful is RF microneedling?
A topical numbing cream is typically applied beforehand to keep you comfortable. Most people describe a warm or prickling sensation during the treatment, which is generally well tolerated. Afterward, the skin may feel tight or resemble a mild sunburn for a day or two. Your specialist will explain what to expect for your treatment and the device used.
How many RF microneedling treatments do you need?
Most people benefit from a series of sessions, often around 3 to 4 and sometimes more for deeper concerns such as scarring, spaced several weeks apart, though the exact number depends on the device, your concerns and your skin. Some improvement can be seen after the first session, with results building over the following weeks and months. Your specialist will build a personalized plan with you.
Is RF microneedling good for acne scars?
Yes. Acne scars are one of the most common reasons people choose RF microneedling. By creating controlled micro-channels and delivering radiofrequency into the deeper layers, it stimulates collagen that can help remodel and soften the appearance of textured (atrophic) acne scars over a series of sessions. Results vary with the type and depth of the scarring, which your specialist will assess.
Does RF microneedling help with stretch marks?
It can. RF microneedling stimulates collagen and elastin in the skin, which may help improve the texture and appearance of stretch marks over a series of sessions. Results vary depending on how established the stretch marks are, and your specialist will set realistic expectations based on your skin.
Does RF microneedling work for jowls?
RF microneedling can help with mild laxity along the lower face and jawline by delivering radiofrequency into the deeper layers to support collagen remodelling and a firmer-looking contour. It is one of several non-surgical options for this area, alongside treatments that act at different depths, such as Thermage and Ultherapy. Rather than one being a step up from the other, the right option, or combination, depends on your skin and the nature of the laxity, and is planned within a broader treatment plan. These approaches are suited to mild to moderate laxity; when sagging is more significant, none of them replaces a surgical lift. Your specialist will assess your skin and tell you what is realistic for you.
Why Choose Dermapure
At Dermapure, every RF microneedling treatment is delivered by our trained team. Our experts keep their clinical expertise sharp through ongoing training, from the latest RF microneedling techniques to evolving best practices in skin health. And as the largest network of medical aesthetic clinics in Canada, we share knowledge and patient cases across our teams, so your plan draws on the strength of professionals across the country.