Radio frequency seems like a very scientific and technical term to be anywhere near a cosmetic treatment. After all, how can something that has to do with radios make anyone look more pleasing? This post clarifies the function of radio frequency in the world of cosmetics. We will discuss how radio frequency affects the skin, its benefits, and what treatments use it cosmetically. Let’s begin!
What is Radio Frequency?
Radio frequency (often written as radiofrequency), or RF for short), is any of the electromagnetic wave frequencies between 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz). These frequencies are primarily used for communications signals in television broadcasting, cellphone transmissions, and of course, radio broadcasting. It is so widely used for radio transmissions that its definition in the Collins dictionary solely focuses on its radio applications. However, in cosmetics, radiofrequency does not strictly adhere to radio use. A little-known fact about RF is that the body can absorb its radiation.
Whenever we hear the word radiation, we often think about nuclear substances and limbs falling off our torsos. But radiation simply means any form of energy that comes from a source and travels through any given space at the speed of light. X-ray produces radiation, so does fire and the sun; it does not necessarily mean something inherently bad for the human body. Radiation energy has an electric and magnetic field and flows in a wave-like pattern. You can refer to radiation as electromagnetic waves.
We can manipulate RF radiation because of its electromagnetic properties.
Radio Frequency in Cosmetics
The use of radiofrequency for cosmetic purposes depends on two facts: it produces heat, and we can manipulate it. The heat that radiofrequency produces affects human biology. And we can use that heat to target the skin specifically. Radiofrequency treatments use its radiation and heat non-invasively and non-surgically to tighten the skin, among other things. The controlled heat of RF penetrates the deep layers of the skin and encourages increased collagen production. Collagen, in turn, improves the aesthetics of the skin. Collagen is the foundation building block of the skin; it makes up around 70% of the protein in the skin. Collagen is the highest percentage of protein in the body. It makes skin cells resilient and strong.
The body loses its collagen levels as we age or get injured. At around 35 to 40 years old, we lose enough collagen that our skin begins to break down. When we don’t have sufficient collagen in our skin, the skin loses its firmness, elasticity, and structure. Skin laxity sets in, and wrinkles and fine lines begin to form. Controlled heat stimulates the production of collagen. And the best way to deliver controlled heat to the dermis – the second layer of the skin (beneath the epidermis) – is RF radiation. The dermis contains connective tissues, oil glands, sweat glands, hair follicles, and is formed by collagen.
In other words, yes, radiofrequency treatments work in tightening the skin, among other benefits.
Benefits
Medical and patient reports attribute several cosmetic benefits to RF treatments. The most reported benefits include:
- Tightened skin
- Reduced wrinkles and fine lines
- Improved sun damage
- Lessened hyperpigmentation
- Better skin tone
- Firmer skin structure
- Lifted tissues
Being the fundamental building protein of the skin, collagen does a lot of good for the skin. Therefore, it is not shocking just how many benefits it can make for the skin.
How Long Before You Notice the Results of Radio Frequency
You can notice slight improvements to your skin immediately after the radiofrequency treatment. However, the body takes time to produce sufficient collagen conducive to drastic enhancements in the skin’s appearance. You may need several treatment sessions to obtain the full effect, but generally, it takes about four months for the procedure to take full effect.
How Long the Results of Radio Frequency Treatments Last
Depending on the type of RF treatment (yes, there are several), your genetics, age, and how well you take care of your skin and body in general, the results can last for six months minimum. But with ongoing treatments, the results can last for years.
Side Effects of Radio Frequency Treatments
Because the most basic type of RF treatment is non-invasive and non-surgical, no severe side effects are reported. You may experience mild and temporary swelling, tingling, and swelling, but these effects are natural, minimal, and will fade shortly. The therapy does not require downtime and is quick and easy when performed correctly. No studies show that RF treatments will hurt your skin because the technology is superb. At Flawless Laser & Med Spa, we only use the best FDA-approved devices to achieve the best results possible.
Types of Radio Frequency Treatments
The principles behind the cosmetic use of radiofrequency are so versatile that they are adaptable. Technology allowed the medical and cosmetic industry to apply those principles to improve other treatments. In cosmetics, other treatments incorporated radiofrequency to make themselves more effective and beneficial. Examples of those treatments include microdermabrasion, microneedling, and injectables. At Flawless Laser & Med Spa, you can combine these different treatments to take your aesthetics to the next level.
Last Word
Radio frequency may seem like a very scientific and technical term, but it has very common uses. Aside from aiding in furthering communications technology, radio frequency is highly beneficial in cosmetics. It has radiation that produces heat – heat that we can control to affect the look of the skin. With the right people holding the right tools, you can harness the power of RF energy and make yourself naturally more beautiful. Flawless Laser & Med Spa staff are the best-equipped professionals in San Antonio, Texas. Schedule an appointment with us today and set a date for your radio frequency treatment.
You can call Flawless Laser & Med Spa at (210) 475-3422, email us at [email protected], or input your details on their Contact Us page. Alternatively, you can visit our office at 9702 Huebner Rd # 106, San Antonio, TX 78240. We are open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9 AM to 5 PM.
