Skin rejuvenation with radiofrequency impulses (RF face lifting) is recognized as a safe, gentle and highly effective cosmetic procedure.The primary task of the treatment is to restore the mechanism of natural tissue renewal, make the skin elastic, tightened, and smooth out age and expression wrinkles.It is worth noting the important role of radiofrequency rejuvenation in the prevention of aging of the integument.Radio wave lifting is performed using special equipment; the success of the procedure depends on its choice and the specified parameters.
Efficiency of the technique
Radiofrequency (radio wave) rejuvenation is a type of hardware cosmetology procedure.Using a special device, the cosmetologist directs radiofrequency pulses to the problem, resulting in an increase in temperature in the inner layers of the skin to 42–60 degrees.The created conditions activate metabolic processes and the fiber renewal mechanism, the synthesis of one’s own collagen, and the process of natural skin rejuvenation occurs.
Indications for the use of radio frequency radiation are:
- expression and age wrinkles;
- pronounced nasolabial folds;
- signs of ptosis, prolapse of soft tissues;
- skin photoaging;
- bags under the eyes;
- weakening of tone and turgor of the integument;
- decreased tissue elasticity, sagging;
- double chin, swollen oval face;
- scars, scars, stretch marks;
- post-acne;
- residual marks on the skin from childbirth and sudden weight loss;
- cellulite.
RF lifting is considered a gentle technique, so it is safely used to solve problems in sensitive areas around the eyes and mouth.
Age does not matter for radiofrequency rejuvenation, butcosmetologists recommend the procedure for patients over 30 years of age.It is during this period that there is a decrease in the skin’s resistance to age-related changes, the rapid appearance of wrinkles, and the skin requires additional support.
At the same time, radiofrequency radiation cannot correct complex problems of mature skin.In this case, rf lifting is prescribed as an auxiliary procedure to oil lifting, blepharoplasty, and SMAS technology.
Is it possible to do it at home?
Facial rejuvenation using special equipment requires special skills and professionalism; cosmetologists first undergo appropriate training and practice.That is why rf lifting is the prerogative of beauty salons, cosmetic centers and clinics.
Modern cosmetology has somewhat expanded the possibilities for lovers of “home rejuvenation” by offering portable devices for RF-lifting.They have a lower radiation power and guarantee a less pronounced effect, but regular use in combination with proper facial care can smooth out this difference.
Attention!Radiofrequency face lifting at home is inferior in effectiveness to a salon procedure.The key factor in this case is not power, but the regularity and correctness of the procedures.
In order not to harm your health, the patientIt is necessary to strictly adhere to the rules for using the device, instructions and technology for lifting, and study in detail the contraindications to exposure to radio frequencies.For your own safety, cosmetologists strongly recommend that you undergo appropriate training and attend courses in hardware cosmetology.
To perform radiofrequency rejuvenation at home, you cannot do without spending money on purchasing a portable device for RF-lifting.They are lightweight and easy to move.
Types of devices
Devices for radiofrequency lifting are divided by design into stationary and portable.Stationary devices are used only for professional use and are installed in clinics and beauty salons.They have a relatively large mass and dimensions.
Portable devices are compact and easy to carry, making them more convenient for home lifting.Portable devices consist of an attachment (handle) and a main part (power supply).
In addition to the design features,All equipment is divided by the number of electrodes and the technology of its influence:
- monopolar— 2 electrodes are used: one is located under the patient, the second is represented by a nozzle, it works on the problem area.Such devices are powerful, capable of heating the inner layers of the skin up to 60 degrees;
- bipolar— 2 electrodes are also used, but both of them are located in the handpiece (nozzle).This effect is softer and more gentle.The maximum skin heating temperature is 45 degrees;
- multipolar or multipolar devices— involve the use of 3 or more electrodes that alternately change polarity.This technology allows for a deep and uniform impact on the problem;
- matrix- a type of radiofrequency exposure of a new generation.Its peculiarity lies in micro-needle electrodes.Needle lifting is a gentle, extremely safe method, and in many cases its effectiveness is comparable to monopolar exposure;
- combined or complex— such devices simultaneously combine radio frequency radiation and other types of energy (for example, infrared radiation, laser beam).
Preparation for lifting
Radiofrequency lifting does not require complex and lengthy preparation for implementation.The procedure is painless, so there is no need for anesthesia or numbing creams.
If you want to achieve the maximum effect from the procedure without swelling, hyperemia and other side effects, cosmetologists recommend that 1-2 weeks before radiofrequency lifting you avoid any trauma to the skin, including tanning, squeezing pimples and peelings, and the use of scrubs.Drinking alcoholic beverages is also taboo.
Before using radio frequencies in home rejuvenation, it is important to visit a cosmetologist.He will examine the skin, rule out contraindications and determine how often it is necessary to perform the treatment and how many procedures will be required.
Important point!When going for RF lifting, remove jewelry and metal items.
Step-by-step procedure
A radiofrequency face lifting session is a short procedure, it will take no more than 30 minutes.It is carried out in the following order:
- First of all, cleanse the skin well using a special product.This is necessary to get rid of makeup residues, to remove particles of fat and sweat, dirt, and dust from the face.
- In the beauty salon, an anesthetic gel (cream) is additionally used for 15–20 minutes.Devices for home radiofrequency lifting are gentler and not as deep, so there is no need for pain relief.
- Depending on the equipment used and the experience of the cosmetologist, special markings may be applied.Its task is to ensure a uniform effect on the skin, eliminating omissions of entire areas.
- When working with monopolar devices, a pad is placed under the back or on the stomach (for grounding).Modern equipment with bipolar and monopolar tips does not require this.
- To ensure better glide of the nozzle and ensure easy penetration of pulses into the client’s skin, a special gel is used.
- At the next stage, the cosmetologist treats the entire surface of the face with radio waves.Areas with more severe problems need re-exposure.The patient feels a slight warmth.
- Upon completion of the lifting, the remaining gel is removed from the face.
- The skin is moisturized with cream.
Rehabilitation period
Any hardware effect on the skin causes redness and swelling of the tissues; RF lifting in this case is no exception.If you follow the cosmetologist’s recommendations during the rehabilitation period, these consequences disappear on their own within 1–2 days.
What do experts recommend after radiofrequency lifting:
- Drink enough water per day, about 1.5–2 liters.Please note that this refers to purified or mineral water, tea and coffee are not taken into account;
- do not touch your face with dirty hands or unnecessarily;
- Do not use decorative cosmetics, powder and foundation for the first time;
- solarium, sunbathing and peeling are still prohibited;
- You should avoid saunas, steam baths, hot baths and any steaming of the skin.The same applies to intense physical activity and sports.The fact is that with sweat, particles of dirt and sweat can get into the skin and lead to inflammatory processes and complications;
- refrain from alcoholic beverages.
Attention!To avoid skin pigmentation in the first 1–2 months after lifting, you need to apply sunscreen before each time you go outside and try to avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
Taking antiviral drugs is a preventive measure during the rehabilitation period, excluding herpes rashes.
You can talk about the first positive changes in your skin after one session.But for a lasting and pronounced result, a course of procedures will be required.It can include up to 10 sessions, depending on the depth of impact.
It is recommended to fully evaluate the effectiveness of radio frequency lifting six months after the completed course.Cosmetologists claim that the achieved rejuvenating effect with high-quality and competent facial care will please the patient for 2-3 years.
Contraindications
Skin rejuvenation with radiofrequency pulses has a number of contraindications:
- oncology, moles on the face;
- diseases of the cardiovascular system;
- presence of implants;
- diseases of the endocrine and nervous system;
- diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, tuberculosis;
- HIV, AIDS;
- hormonal imbalances, pregnancy and lactation;
- acute form of acne;
- inflammation of the skin, herpes;
- infectious diseases;
- high blood pressure;
- general malaise, weakness, elevated body temperature.
It is not recommended to perform the procedure during menstruation.The optimal time for lifting is 4–5 days after menstruation.
Possible consequences
The first days after the treatment, the skin is more sensitive; slight swelling, swelling and redness are observed.These are normal phenomena, they do not require treatment and go away on their own.
Possible complications include:
- burns with blisters;
- cones;
- the effect of tissue oppression, which is accompanied by the formation of dimples on the face.Its appearance is associated with uneven heating (overheating) of skin areas, promoting atrophy of adipose tissue;
- the appearance of pigment spots;
- tissue scarring;
- herpes rash.
Complications after RF lifting are an expression of insufficient experience and professionalism of the cosmetologist, omission of existing contraindications and dishonest attitude towards preparation and rehabilitation on the part of the client.
Pros and cons
Radiofrequency rejuvenation is one of the most popular hardware techniques.The advantages of the procedure include:
- painless effect, rarely requires the use of anesthetic cream;
- exclusion of tissue damage and injury;
- quick effect;
- the natural process of rejuvenation starts;
- lasting result, the effect lasts up to 3 years;
- does not take much time, the procedure lasts about half an hour;
- a wide range of indications;
- does not limit by age or skin type;
- minimum side effects;
- The rehabilitation period is hidden, so you can do normal activities, go to work.
The main disadvantage of radio wave rejuvenation is the high cost of the course of therapy.Plus, for mature patients, RF lifting alone is not enough; the cosmetologist prescribes it as an addition to the main, more complex rejuvenation procedure.The disadvantages of the technique include an impressive list of contraindications.
Where is it better to perform a lift: in a salon or at home?
If radiofrequency lifting is used to solve certain, pronounced skin problems, then the help of a specialist will be more effective.Plus the risk of complications and side effects is minimal.
To prevent skin aging and smooth out minor signs of age, home procedures are sufficient.But keep in mind that you need to study the technology and subtleties of implementation; it is recommended to undergo appropriate training and consult a cosmetologist about the presence of contraindications.
Opinion of cosmetologists
Cosmetologists have a positive attitude towards radiofrequency face lifting, using it as an independent procedure or in combination with other rejuvenation techniques.The procedure is aimed at self-rejuvenation, launching the active synthesis of your own collagen with minimal risks of unpleasant consequences - this is always welcome.