Is RF Needling Worth It?

Emma Gould
Sep 8
2 min read

RF Microneedling combines two established approaches to skin repair: controlled micro-injury and radiofrequency energy. Together, these stimulate the body’s natural wound-healing cascade, leading to new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production.

The Science

Microneedling: Penetrates the dermis to create controlled micro-injuries. This triggers fibroblast activation and type I and III collagen synthesis.
Radiofrequency energy: Delivered through insulated needles, it creates uniform thermal zones in the dermis. Heat causes immediate collagen contraction and initiates neocollagenesis over several months.
Combined effect: Mechanical stimulation plus thermal energy remodels dermal structure, improving elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and softening scars.

Clinical Evidence

A 2020 review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found RF microneedling significantly improved wrinkle depth, skin laxity, and acne scarring, with high patient satisfaction.
In a 2014 split-face study (Lasers in Surgery and Medicine), areas treated with RF microneedling showed greater improvement in scar depth compared to microneedling alone.
Research has also confirmed its safety across Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI, with lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation compared to lasers.

Medical vs Non-Medical Devices

Not all RF microneedling is equivalent:

Medical-grade devices: Penetration depths up to 4 mm; consistent energy delivery; sterile, insulated needles; regulated for clinical use. Capable of dermal remodelling and scar revision.
Cosmetic-grade devices: Shallow penetration (0.5–1 mm); less energy precision; unregulated in many cases. Typically only create superficial inflammation, producing temporary “plumping” with little structural change.

This difference is critical: only medical-grade systems deliver the heat and depth required to stimulate long-term collagen remodelling.

This dual action delivers results in two stages:

Timeline	What Happens
Immediate	Skin may feel firmer due to heat-induced contraction
2–6 Weeks	New collagen and elastin begin forming, improving texture and tone
3–4 Months	Full tightening and smoothing effects materialise

What results can I expect?

RF Microneedling targets:

Ageing skin: Lines, sagging, crepey areas

Before and after RF Microneedling treatment of the abdomen showing firmer, tighter skin with less sagging.

Under-eye concerns: Bags and thin skin

Before and after RF Microneedling showing reduced under-eye bags and smoother skin beneath the eyes.

Scarring: From acne, injury, or surgery

Before and after RF Microneedling of a deep facial scar, showing smoother texture and reduced visibility of the scar.

Texture issues: Enlarged pores, uneven tone, stretch marks

Before and after RF Microneedling of acne scarring on the cheeks, showing clearer skin and improved surface texture.

What to Expect at Rosem West Bridgford

*Step*	*Description*
Consultation	Assessment of your skin, a tailored plan, and clear expectations.
Procedure	Topical numbing, followed by microneedling with RF energy through sterile needles.
Aftercare	Mild redness or swelling for 24-48 hours. Makeup and regular activity typically resume the next day.
Frequency	Typically 3-4 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Maintenance is suggested every 12-18 months.

So, is RF Neelding Worth It?

100% yes! Unlike topical skincare or salon-grade microneedling pens, RF microneedling provides measurable, structural change in the dermis. The difference between medical and cosmetic devices is not marketing—it is the difference between superficial inflammation and genuine tissue remodelling supported by published clinical studies.

Why It’s Worth It

Structural change over a mere glow: You’re rebuilding from within.
Trusted expertise: Emma Gould brings 20 years of clinical experience and thousands of patients served.
Clear pricing with flexibility: £285 per session, with optional 0% interest payment plans.
Minimal downtime, maximum impact: Return to life quickly—with real results unfolding over weeks and months.