Radiofrequency (RF) skin tightening is a non-surgical treatment used for tightening and lifting the skin not only of face and neck, but also arms, tummy and thighs. Energy waves are created to heat up the dermis layer of the skin which stimulates the production of collagen. Collagen is a common protein found in the dermis which gives the skin its firmness and youthful look. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen which leads to less elasticity (sagging of the skin) and wrinkles begin to form.
How does it work?
RF works by producing an alternating current that creates an electric field throughout the skin which causes a change in the orientation of charged particles within the electric field. The waves work to heat the deep layer of the skin, known as the dermis, to temperatures between 40-65°C. Studies have shown that maintaining a temperature of over 46°C for over 3 minutes causes your body to release heat-shock proteins. These proteins stimulate the production of new collagen fibres. Radiofrequency uses heat and the instability of adipocytes in order to reduce their volume and appearance. The procedure is virtually painless and takes around 20 minutes for a facial treatment, 30 to 40 minutes for body treatment.
There are different classifications of radiofrequency treatments, one important classification being the active poles (electrodes) that are used to treat the skin. Monopolar is a handpiece that delivers an electric current into the skin that then exits through a grounding pad. The negative and positive poles are located quite far apart from each other (the grounding pad acts as the negative pole), meaning that the current has no other choice but to pass through all skin layers, travel through the body to the ground pad and exit there. This allows for deeper penetration that can treat below the dermis and hypodermis. This modality is mainly used in medical field to treat musculoskeletal disorders and pains.
Bipolar has two prongs closer together that allows the current to bounce between and into the surface of the intended treatment area. They are more limited in the depth that can be achieved but there is a more controlled current distribution. Tripolar and multipolar handpieces have the advantage of allowing the current to pass between one positive and two independent negative electrodes (or more with multipolar) which perform a uniformed but relatively deep heating.
Skin tightening with radiofrequency is suitable for both men and women of any skin type or colour. It is ideal for clients who are beginning to see the signs that indicate a degradation in skin firmness, usually in your 30s or 40s. The treatment is effective for skin tightening and lifting of flaccid areas of the skin. It is helpful for post pregnancy body or to improve skin appearance following weight loss. It reduces lines, wrinkles and expression lines around the eyes and mouth, under eye bags and double chin.
Please have a look at the Radiofrequency treatments for face and body available now at Nu Vou. Packages available.
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