The Complete RF Microneedling Recovery Guide

/ The Complete RF Microneedling Recovery Guide

A medical professional holds an RF microneedling device next to a treatment screen, preparing for a procedure that supports RF microneedling recovery.

RF microneedling is an innovative, non-invasive skin procedure that uses radiofrequency energy and tiny, microscopic needles to rejuvenate the skin. This treatment offers numerous benefits and can address a variety of common skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and skin textural issues.

If you’re considering RF microneedling, you may have questions about what to expect. In this RF microneedling recovery guide, learn everything you need to know about how to best care for your skin post-treatment and what to expect.

Introduction to RF Microneedling Treatment

RF microneedling treatments at Skin N’ Tox involve a trained medical provider using a Morpheus8 device to make tiny injuries in the skin. At the same time, this device releases radiofrequency waves into the micro-injuries to help promote skin rejuvenation. 

The process of creating micro-injuries triggers the production of elastin and collagen, resulting in healthier, thicker, and smoother skin.The use of radiofrequency waves combined with microneedling amplifies the treatment’s effects by increasing collagen production up to 40% compared to traditional procedures.

This treatment can help improve the appearance of:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Skin laxity
  • Sagging skin
  • Acne scars
  • Discoloration/hyperpigmentation areas
  • Stretch marks
  • Scars from surgeries or injuries

Tips for RF Microneedling Recovery

Knowing what to expect post-treatment can help you better prepare for how to take care of your skin during this time. Here are a few things to know about caring for your skin after RF microneedling sessions:

  • You may experience redness, flaking, and even notice grid marks from the needles two to three days after your treatment. This is normal and is no cause for concern. Over the next few days, they will shed naturally. To minimize potential risk of scarring, avoid touching or scratching the treated area.
  • For several days after treatment, you should avoid any trauma to the treatment area. This means avoiding massages, irritating skincare products, swimming, or rigorous exercise.
  • You should take a day or two off from wearing makeup after your treatment to let your skin breathe. If you wish to wear makeup, wait at least 24 hours after treatment to apply it.
  • For 48-72 hours after your treatment, avoid using skincare or exfoliating treatments, such as products with AHA or BHA, which can make your skin even more sensitive.
  • Avoid using products with retinol for at least one week after your treatment session. 

Managing Side Effects and Discomfort

Most patients tolerate RF microneedling treatments well, experiencing only mild side effects post-treatment. Common side effects may include redness, swelling, bruising, dryness, or itching. These side effects typically resolve within a few days after treatment. We advise all patients to contact us if mild side effects do not resolve within a week.


If you experience mild swelling or discomfort post-treatment, using an icepack can provide relief. An ice pack can be applied to the affected area (not direct use) in 15-minute sessions up to four times per day. Hydrocortisone cream can be used after 12 hours post-procedure to help manage possible redness or itchiness. The Skin N’ Tox team is here to help support you through recovery and will provide you with detailed post-treatment instructions to help guide you. Using medical grade skincare like ZO Skin Health can also help with the healing process.

RF Microneedling Recovery – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to recover from RF microneedling?

Most patients can resume normal activities after RF microneedling treatments with no downtime. However, skin redness and sensitivity are expected within the first few days after treatment. For the first two to three days, you may notice your skin is sensitive, red, and warm—which can almost feel like a sunburn. This is a normal response to the treatment.

Some patients experience mild swelling or bruising from day three to seven. This generally subsides quickly, allowing the long-term benefits of RF microneedling, including the growth of new elastin and collagen, to take place.

What can I do to speed up RF microneedling recovery?

Follow the post-care instructions of your Skin N’ Tox provider to ensure a speedy recovery after your treatment. Lifestyle choices and following a post-treatment care regimen help support your body’s recovery. 

Some ways to support your recovery include drinking lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect your skin from sun damage. Additionally, you’ll want to avoid exposure to extremely hot temperatures, such as in showers, hot tubs, steam rooms, or saunas, for at least three days after your treatment session.

When can I expect to see the full results of RF microneedling?

It can take up to six months to see the full results of your RF microneedling treatment. You will begin to notice the benefits after a few weeks, but the full results take time as your body produces more elastin and collagen. We may recommend returning for follow-up sessions after six to eight weeks to help you maintain your results. 

How many sessions of RF microneedling are typically needed for optimal results?

RF microneedling treatments usually involve three to six sessions, depending on your skin’s condition and skincare goals. Three treatments may be enough for mild skin concerns to see visible results. 

Moderate to severe skin concerns may require a more intensive treatment regimen with up to six sessions. Treatment appointments are generally scheduled six to eight weeks apart, allowing your skin to heal and renew between sessions. During your skin consultation, your Skin N’ Tox provider will help you determine the number of treatment sessions that will work for your skin.

RF Microneedling Treatment and Recovery with Skin N’ Tox 

Ready to learn more about the rejuvenating benefits of RF microneedling? The Skin N’ Tox team is here to help guide you through each step of the process, from pre-treatment to post-treatment recovery. Our highly trained staff provides exceptional-quality RF microneedling treatments in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere to help you achieve the best results. 
Whether you want to improve skin texture and tone or combat the visible signs of aging, RF microneedling is a great, non-invasive solution that will help you look and feel your best. To get started, schedule an appointment for a Morpheus8 consultation today!

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