RF Microneedling: What It Is, How It Works, and Whether It’s Worth It

If you’re dealing with fine lines, acne scars, or mild skin laxity, you’ve probably come across RF microneedling while searching for solutions. There’s a reason: it takes traditional microneedling to the next level by adding controlled radiofrequency (RF) energy deep in the skin, which helps tighten and remodel the skin from the inside out.

At Synergy Face + Body, we use Genius RF microneedling to help patients smooth texture, soften lines, and firm laxity with minimal downtime. This guide walks you through exactly what RF microneedling does, who it’s for, what recovery is really like, and what kind of results you can expect.

Key Takeaways about RF Microneedling

What is RF microneedling?

It’s a treatment that uses tiny needles plus controlled radiofrequency heat to create micro-injuries below the surface of your skin. Your body responds by building new collagen and elastin, which helps skin look firmer, smoother, and more even over time.

What does it RF Microneedling treat?

It’s best for texture and laxity issues: fine lines, early jowling or a soft jawline, acne scars and other indented scars, enlarged pores, rough skin, and some stretch marks. It won’t replace a facelift, but it can noticeably tighten and smooth mild–moderate concerns.

Does it hurt?

With strong numbing cream, most people rate discomfort around a 3–5 out of 10. You’ll feel quick bursts of heat and pressure in each spot rather than sharp pain. Areas with thinner skin (like the forehead) can feel “spicier,” but we can adjust settings if something feels like too much.

How much downtime?

Plan on looking flushed and a bit puffy for 24–72 hours, like a moderate sunburn. Skin often feels dry or sandpapery for about a week. Most patients are comfortable going back to work the next day, especially if they’re okay with some redness or can wear light makeup after the first 24 hours.

How many treatments do I need?

For early fine lines and mild texture, we usually recommend about 3 treatments, spaced 3–4 weeks apart. For acne scars or more stubborn texture/laxity, expect 3–6+ sessions. We’ll give you a specific number once we’ve seen your skin in person.

How long do results last?

Your new collagen typically holds for 12–18+ months, depending on age, sun exposure, and lifestyle. You’ll still age normally, and most people like to do one maintenance treatment per year to keep their skin firm and responsive.

Is it safe for darker skin tones?
Yes! Genius RF allows us to tailor depth and energy for a wide range of skin tones. If we think RF microneedling isn’t the safest or best option for your skin, we’ll tell you and recommend alternatives.

What Is RF Microneedling?

RF microneedling (radiofrequency microneedling) is a collagen-stimulating treatment that combines:

  • Microneedling: very fine needles create controlled micro-channels in the skin.

  • Radiofrequency energy: gentle heat is delivered through those needles into the deeper dermis.

Your skin registers this as a controlled injury and responds by:

  • Producing new collagen and elastin

  • Tightening and firming deeper layers

  • Smoothing texture and softening lines from the inside out

Traditional microneedling works in the upper layers of skin only. Adding RF allows us to reach deeper structures and get more tightening and remodeling with fewer sessions.

At Synergy, we use Genius RF, which lets us adjust both needle depth and energy level to match your skin type, concerns, and comfort.

What Does RF Microneedling Actually Do for My Skin?

Most of the people who end up in our office are dealing with some version of:

  • “My skin looks tired and uneven.”

  • “My acne scars still bother me.”

  • “My face feels softer and less defined than it used to.”

 

RF microneedling targets the root of those concerns by:

  • Boosting collagen and elastin, which helps skin look firmer, thicker, and more resilient.

  • Tightening mild–moderate laxity, which helps especially along the jawline, lower face, and neck.

  • Improving texture, which helps soften acne scars, crepey areas, and rough patches.

  • Refining pores, which helps enlarged pores appear smaller as the skin thickens and tightens.

  • Balancing tone, which can help with post-inflammatory dark marks and some pigment issues.

It will not replace a facelift, erase every deep wrinkle, or completely change your skin type. But it can make your skin look noticeably smoother, tighter, and healthier in a way that still looks like you.

What Can RF Microneedling Treat?

RF microneedling works well on the:

  • Face

  • Neck

  • Chest

  • Select body areas (such as abdomen or thighs for stretch marks)

Common concerns we treat include:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Early jowling and mild skin laxity

  • Acne scars and other indented scars

  • Rough, uneven texture

  • Enlarged pores

  • Certain types of pigmentation issues (including some PIH and melasma, when carefully evaluated)

  • Stretch marks in some patients

During your consultation, we’ll be clear about where RF microneedling makes sense and where something else (laser, filler, threads, or surgery) would do a better job.

Who Is a Good Candidate for RF Microneedling?

You’re likely a good candidate if you:

  • Are in overall good health

  • Have realistic expectations

RF microneedling can be a strong fit if you:

  • Want something stronger than facials or peels

  • Aren’t ready for surgery

  • Can tolerate a few days of redness in exchange for longer-term structural change

You may not be a candidate if you:

  • Are pregnant

  • Are on anticoagulant medications

  • Are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation

  • Have a history of keloids, hypertrophic scars, or poor wound healing

  • Have an active infection, cold sore, or rash in the treatment area

If any of those apply to you, tell us during your consultation. The point isn’t to push you into RF microneedling; it’s to find the option that’s actually safe and appropriate for you.


For more information about RF microneedling at Synergy Face + Body, please feel free to call us. If you are Inside the Beltline call
919-335-6372. If you are in Raleigh, call 919-510-5130. You can also contact us online by filling out our online contact form.