Why Medical-Grade RF Microneedling Outperforms Cosmetic Devices
- Emma Gould

- Sep 3
- 4 min read
Radiofrequency Microneedling (RF Microneedling) has become a central treatment in modern aesthetic medicine. Unlike topical creams or cosmetic facials, it works directly within the skin’s architecture to stimulate long-term repair. At Rosem Health in West Bridgford, we provide this treatment using medical-grade equipment in a clinical environment, ensuring both safety and effectiveness.
This article explains the science of RF Microneedling, the key differences between medical and non-medical devices, and what patients can realistically expect from treatment.
What Is RF Microneedling?
RF Microneedling combines two proven technologies:
Microneedling: A series of fine needles creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers the body’s natural wound-healing response, stimulating new collagen and elastin.
Radiofrequency energy: Delivered through the needles into the dermis, controlled heat enhances collagen remodelling, tightening the skin and improving elasticity.
By combining mechanical and thermal stimulation, RF Microneedling addresses both surface texture and deeper structural changes in the skin.
How Collagen Remodelling Works
Collagen and elastin are the proteins responsible for skin strength and resilience. As we age, production slows, leading to wrinkles, laxity, and thinning.
RF Microneedling initiates a repair cascade:
Inflammation (0–7 days)
Micro-injuries recruit growth factors and fibroblasts.
Heat from RF causes controlled coagulation in the dermis.
Proliferation (1–6 weeks)
Fibroblasts lay down new collagen and elastin fibres.
Skin begins to thicken and remodel.
Remodelling (6–12 weeks)
Collagen fibres reorganise, increasing tensile strength.
Visible tightening and smoothing become apparent.
This process explains why results develop gradually and continue to improve for weeks after the final session.
Medical-Grade vs Non-Medical Devices
Not all microneedling or radiofrequency devices are equivalent. The distinction between medical-grade and cosmetic-grade systems is critical for outcomes.
Depth of Penetration
Medical-grade devices: Can reach depths up to 4mm, targeting the dermis where collagen synthesis occurs.
Cosmetic devices: Typically limited to 0.5–1mm, affecting only the superficial epidermis.
Energy Delivery
Medical-grade systems: Deliver RF energy consistently and evenly across treatment zones. Settings are customisable to patient needs.
Non-medical systems: Often inconsistent, with limited control of energy intensity. This may lead to under-treatment or overheating at the surface.
Safety Oversight
Medical clinics: Treatment is performed under clinical protocols, with sterilisation, anaesthetic application, and emergency management capability.
Non-medical environments: Often provided in beauty salons without medical governance. This raises risks of infection, burns, or ineffective results.
Conclusion: only medical-grade RF Microneedling in a clinical environment provides the depth, energy precision, and safety required for genuine skin remodelling.
What RF Microneedling Can Treat
Scientific studies and clinical experience support its use in a range of conditions:
Skin ageing — fine lines, wrinkles, and thinning around the eyes and mouth
Laxity — lower face, jawline, neck, body and arms skin tightening
Under-eye bags — improved smoothness and support under the eyes
Acne scars — smoothing of pitted scars and uneven texture
Traumatic and surgical scars — regeneration of healthy tissue and blending with skin
Stretch marks — stimulating repair in stretched dermal tissue
At Rosem Health West Bridgford, we can effectively treat:
Under-eye area

Tightening of loose skin


Acne scarring
Repair of deep scars
Evidence from Clinical Studies
A 2020 systematic review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found RF Microneedling to be effective for acne scars, with significant improvement in texture and patient satisfaction.
A 2019 study in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine demonstrated measurable tightening of skin laxity with high patient tolerance and minimal downtime.
Multiple trials confirm that combination thermal and microneedling approaches outperform microneedling alone.
This evidence base supports RF Microneedling as more than a cosmetic trend — it is a medical procedure with documented biological effects.
Treatment Process
Consultation
Assessment of skin condition, medical history, and suitability.
Discussion of expected results and treatment plan.
Preparation
A topical anaesthetic is applied to reduce discomfort.
Skin is cleansed under sterile conditions.
Procedure
Microneedling with simultaneous RF energy delivery.
Customised depth and energy settings for each facial zone.
Aftercare
Mild redness and swelling for 24–48 hours.
Makeup is usually possible from the following day.
Sun protection and simple skincare are advised.
Downtime and Safety
Downtime is typically minimal:
Day 1–2: Redness and swelling
Day 3: Return to normal activities, with mild sensitivity
Week 1: Early tightening effects noticeable
Because medical-grade devices are used under clinical oversight, risks are low. Common side effects are temporary redness or swelling. Rare complications include infection or pigmentation change, but these are mitigated by strict sterile technique and professional assessment.
Number of Sessions Required
Standard protocol: 1-3 sessions, four to six weeks apart
Results timeline:
Immediate: a sensation of tighter skin
2–4 weeks: smoother texture and reduced pore visibility
12 weeks: peak collagen remodelling and tightening
Maintenance: One session every 12–18 months is recommended
Cost and Payment Options
At Rosem Health, each session costs £285.
To make treatment more accessible, we offer monthly payment plans at 0% interest. This allows patients to begin their course without delaying results.
Why Rosem Health in West Bridgford?
Treatments delivered by experienced medical professionals
Use of advanced, medical-grade RF Microneedling equipment
Focus on evidence-based outcomes rather than superficial or temporary changes
Convenient West Bridgford location for Nottingham patients
Our approach combines clinical rigour with patient-centred care.
Booking Your Treatment
RF Microneedling is available now at Rosem Health in West Bridgford.
You can:
Book online in under two minutes: Book your RF Microneedling session »
Call us on 0330 043 3854 to discuss your treatment plan
Summary
RF Microneedling is a clinically proven method for stimulating skin repair and remodelling. Unlike superficial cosmetic treatments, it works within the dermis to strengthen collagen, reduce scars, and tighten laxity.
The difference between medical-grade and cosmetic devices is significant. At Rosem Health, we use advanced equipment under professional supervision, ensuring both safety and meaningful results.
For patients in West Bridgford and Nottingham, this makes RF Microneedling a reliable, evidence-based option for long-term skin improvement.







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