Your Essential Guide to Radiofrequency Microneedling

Navigating radiofrequency microneedling can be confusing because there are so many devices, treatment plans, needle depths, and energy levels to think about. Our goal is to make this simpler by breaking down the top radiofrequency microneedling options. For a detailed guide, click to your right, or check out the key points below!

What is Radiofrequency Microneedling?

Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling combines regular microneedling with radiofrequency (basically heat 🔥) to rejuvenate the skin. The needles create thousands of micro-punctures that trigger collagen and elastin production; heat 🔥 makes this process 10x more effective. RF microneedling can be used for wrinkles, texture, pores, scars, and more. 

Regular Microneedling

VS.

Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling

Um… What is Radiofrequency?

We’re not scientists, so let’s keep it simple: Radiofrequency (RF) is a type of energy used in medical treatments that heats the skin. We want to heat the skin because the heat helps improve the skin’s texture and tightness. It can stimulate collagen production, which makes the skin look smoother and firmer over time.

Radiofrequency = Heat 🔥

Radiofrequency Microneedling + Anatomy

To put it simply, RF microneedling involves the use of tiny needles that penetrate the skin to deliver heat. This combination of microneedling and radiofrequency energy is designed to enhance skin rejuvenation by promoting collagen production and improving skin texture.

When it comes to delivering heat into the skin through RF microneedling, there are several crucial factors to consider:

Needles - Heat can be delivered evenly throughout the entire needle (see "Uninsulated Needle") or just the tip (that's what she said).

Needle Depth - Heat can be delivered to the superficial dermis or deep into the fat, depending on the penetration of the needle. 

Energy Frequency - Heat can be delivered in a bulky, wide dose (see 1 MHz below) or a tiny, precise dose (see 2 MHz below). 

Energy Time - Heat can be delivered over a short time (just a few milliseconds) or a loooong time (up to 4 seconds!). Longer delivery = more heat = better results = but also more painful 😣.

RF Microneedling Depth Chart

Radiofrequency Microneedling Device Comparison

Let's just get a very rough overview of the devices we'll discuss today. This is a VERY GENERAL diagram. It's impossible to truly label what is stronger/strongest, as providers can adjust the energy beyond the typical settings. Think of Vivace and Secret as ideal for younger patients looking for anti-aging maintenance; think of Profound and Morpheus8 for more aggressive treatment for wrinkles and jowls with more downtime. 

Radiofrequency Microneedling Device Comparison

Let’s Get Into Devices!

Understanding the features of RF microneedling devices is important for both doctors and patients to choose the right treatment. How well RF microneedling works depends on things like the type of needles, how deep they go, whether they are insulated, and how long they heat the skin. These factors affect how effective the treatment is and how comfortable and safe it feels. To make this easier to understand, we’ve created simple graphics that compare different RF devices based on these features. This will help you see how each device works and which one might be the best fit for your skin and treatment goals.

Vivace

Vivace

  • tl;dr: Vivace has a very polarizing opinions; not super loved by dermatologists but really loved by patients. 🤷🏼‍♀️

  • Offers both red light (for collagen building) and blue light (to kill bacteria and improve acne). 

  • Gold-plated needles ensure less irritation and fewer allergic reactions. 

  • Has both 1MHz energy (bulky heat, good for general tightening) and 2MHz energy (precise heat, good for scars) 

  • A smooth motor gently glides the needles into the skin, resulting in "virtually no discomfort." 

  • Celebrity Clients: Olivia Culpo​, Molly Sims

Vivace Ultra

Vivace Ultra

  • tl;dr: The addition of ultrasound to a RF microneedling device is very unique. It's important for the heat to be exactly in the dermis (not in the fat!). With ultrasound, the provider can be certain of the needle's location in the skin.

  • Vivace Ultra = Ultrasound!

  • The addition of ultrasound makes this device much more precise. The provider can see the exact depth of the needle. No more overshooting or undershooting!

  • Great for dark skin: Due to the ultrasound technology, this device can minimize trauma to the epidermis (where our melanocytes live).

  • Has both 1MHz energy (bulky heat, good for general tightening) and 2MHz energy (very precise, good for scars)

  • Can be used on face or body

Infini

Infini

  • tl;dr: The oldest device we've discussed (launched in 2013). It works, but with more pain + more downtime compared to newer devices.

  • Offers high intensity energy ("monopolar") that dives deep into the skin. This is great for tightening, though it can be painful.

  • This intense energy can be delivered up to 1 second. The longer time improves tightening results (but again, more pain).

Genius RF

Genius

  • tl;dr: No notes, 10/10, would recommend.

  • One of the more powerful RF devices on the market

  • Upgraded version of the Infini (see left)

  • Needles penetrate at 3 different levels, creating a 3D effect

  • Unlike older devices that use a fixed energy setting, Genius adjusts energy in real-time. In simple terms: Genius delivers the EXACT right amount of heat. NO MORE, NO LESS. This maximizes precision and comfort and minimizes downtime. This system is state of the art, meaning that the Genius RF devices are expen$ive.

Secret

Secret RF

  • tl;dr: Best for skin of color due to insulated needles (protect melanocytes) and 2MHz (very precise) heating. This is less likely to induce pigment changes.

  • Very customizable

  • Has 2MHz energy (meaning the heat is very precise rather than bulky). With insulated needles + very precise heat, the Secret RF is great for darker skin tones (meaning the melanocytes are very well-protected from heat). Has a very low risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (AKA dark spots).

Potenza

Potenza

  • tl;dr: Potenza is a newer, innovative device. The Tiger Tip and the Fusion Tip are very unique and different from other devices. No opinions on this device, as it's relatively new and (I suspect) very expen$ive.

  • POTENZA has a BONANZA of needle tips!

  • Has both 1MHz energy (bulky heat, good for general tightening) and 2MHz energy (very precise, good for scars)

  • Potenza is comfortable with minimal recovery time.

  • Celebrity Clients: Kim Kardashian, Rachel Zoe, Chrishell Stause

Morpheus8

Morpheus8

  • tl;dr: Due to its strength and depth, the Morpheus8 settings are particularly important. Make sure you go to a dermatologist with experience. Try to avoid MedSpas and see a dermatologist for this treatment in particular.

  • The DEEPEST RF device: 8mm!

  • Only RF device FDA cleared to penetrate fat

  • Melts and reshapes fat to “morph" the face, hence the name (and 8mm!)

  • Morpheus8 tip delivers 3 short bursts of energy as it retracts, creating 3D effect

  • Considered the best device for body skin tightening. Also used on lower and mid-face to tighten.

  • Can use Morpheus8 instead of liposuction

  • Celebrity Clients: Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Jessica Simpson, Lindsay Lohan, Eva Longoria

Profound

Profound

  • tl;dr: The most controversial of all the devices here. Derms seem to love it or hate it. It's up to you if you want to spend $4000+ on a single treatment that may or may not work.

  • FDA cleared to treat cheeks, jowls, neck, and cellulite

  • Popular for lower face​

  • Requires single session

  • ​Powerful, but painful due to heating the skin for 4 seconds (!!!). This is by far the longest heat delivery time: this results in more tissue injury and a longer recovery (~7 - 10 days).

  • The angled needles increase contact with the skin to enhance effectiveness, but can damage vessels and nerves. Bruising and numbness may last a few weeks.

  • Produces 5x more elastin, 2x more collagen, and more hyaluronic acid.

If Radiofrequency Microneedling Safe for Skin of Color?

Some RF microneedling devices are better at protecting the top layer of skin (the epidermis) and the melanocytes, which helps lower the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is especially important for people with darker skin, who are more likely to develop dark spots after skin treatments. Devices with insulated needles are ideal because they deliver heat directly to the deeper layers of the skin, avoiding the epidermis and reducing the chance of melanocyte damage.

Additionally, RF devices that use a 2MHz frequency provide precise heat targeting, keeping the heat in the dermis (the deeper skin layer) and avoiding the top layers. This makes devices like the Secret RF a great option for darker skin tones, as they are designed to protect melanocytes and minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation while delivering effective results. Choosing devices with these advanced features ensures safer treatments with better outcomes for individuals with darker skin.

Radiofrequency Microneedling in Skin of Color

Secret RF: Safest for Skin of Color

Insulated Needles + 2MHz energy (exact heat) reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by protecting melanocytes.

Radiofrequency Microneedling FAQs

Is Morpheus8 bad for deep rolling scars?
Morpheus8 is generally effective for improving the appearance of deep rolling scars by combining microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and remodel the skin. However, results may vary, and a consultation with a provider is recommended to determine the best treatment plan.

Does Morpheus8 age you?
Morpheus8 does not age you; it works by stimulating collagen and elastin production, which can enhance skin firmness and texture. However, improper use or over-treatment could potentially lead to skin thinning, so it’s important to follow professional advice.

Is Morpheus8 fractional laser resurfacing?
Morpheus8 is not a fractional laser. It is a microneedling device that uses radiofrequency energy to achieve skin remodeling. Unlike fractional lasers, it works by delivering energy directly into the skin layers through tiny needles.

How long until you see Morpheus8 results?
You may start to notice improvements in your skin’s texture and tone within 3-4 weeks after treatment, with full results becoming visible over 2-3 months as collagen production increases.