RF lifting: what is it and how is it performed?

RF lifting is a cosmetic rejuvenating procedure that involves exposure to an electric current or a field on the skin of the face. The procedure helps to successfully get rid of many aesthetic problems, and the effect will be noticeable after the first session.

The method of RF-lifting originated in 1908 thanks to the work of two medical scientists - R. Zeinik and F. Nagelshmidt, they introduced the term "diathermy", which means one of the methods of treatment of neuralgia and muscle pain. A little later, in the 30s, a fundamentally new medical factor was discovered - the effect of a high-frequency electric field, and at the beginning of our century, American scientists conducted the first procedure of RF-lifting.

The impact of high frequency currents causes the heating and effective tightening of fabrics.

As you know, it is the presence of collagen that is responsible for the youth of the skin. However, over time, the activity of the cells is reduced and its production is suspended. Normalizing the situation with medications, ointments and masks is quite difficult, so the effect of radio waves was a real breakthrough in cosmetology. After the cells come into contact with the RF devices, they begin to produce neocollagenesis at an accelerated rate; simultaneously with these molecules, elastin and glycosaminoglycans are formed in the cells, which give the same rejuvenating effect.

The mechanism of action here is as follows: human skin is heated to a predetermined temperature, as a result, fibrillar fibers become hard and are transformed into spirals with a rather compacted skeleton - it is responsible for the connection of cells and causes the skin to be elastic from the inside. As you know, collagen is a protein; therefore, under the influence of elevated temperatures, it collapses, and the skin becomes tightened.

Simultaneously with this process, thermal action causes the accumulation of accumulated subcutaneous fat, which is excreted through the pores by physiological means.

All manipulations effectively stimulate enhanced blood circulation, normalize metabolic processes, nourish the cells with oxygen and promote the removal of toxins from the human body.

The result before and after the application of the lifting procedure is pronounced.

The effect is:

• the disappearance of orange cellulite peel;
• improve skin turgor and elasticity;
• reducing wrinkles and large folds;
• improving skin color;
• reducing swelling and black circles under the eyes;
• getting rid of the second chin.

The procedure has its advantages and disadvantages.

The benefits include:

• universality - the procedure can be performed on any skin of the face (dry, oily or combination);
• at the end of the manipulations, no scars, bruises and other unaesthetic traces remain, as is the case with plastics;
• the procedure is absolutely painless - as a rule, patients feel only a pleasant warm tingling sensation;
• hardware tightening does not require special preparation;
• It is important that the rejuvenating effect is achieved through the use of natural resources, the body does not experience any foreign invasion.

The effect on the skin is noticeable after the very first procedure, although for a more pronounced and long-lasting effect, it is desirable to complete a course of 6-12 sessions with an interval of 10-14 days, and to maintain the effect achieved, the treatment should be repeated every six months.

If we talk about the disadvantages of RF-lifting, then, like any other radio wave radiation, the impact of the apparatus affects the functioning of human internal organs. When lifting, contact time and radiation dose are minimal, however, no physician will give you a guarantee of 100% safety.

The procedure is quite expensive, and given that the sessions are conducted by the course, it can not be called accessible to the majority of our compatriots.

Cosmetologists point out that in some cases, puffiness, skin flushing and, in rare cases, hyperpigmentation may develop after a tightening. The probability of such unpleasant consequences depends on the level of professionalism of the cosmetologist and the level of technical equipment of the clinic.

Speaking about the method of RF-lifting, we should focus on the difference of this method from the procedures similar to it. Thermage and RF-lifting are often confused, since each method involves exposure to radio frequency radiation.

But there are some differences between these procedures:

• Thermage is carried out at a temperature of 40 degrees, and radio wave rejuvenation warms it to 60 degrees;
• Thermage involves the operation of high-frequency monopolar energy, which is much weaker;
• Thermage implies a complete change in the structure of collagen protein in the skin.

Not less problems arise with biorevitalization, since women often face skin lesions. And the recovery process lasts a long time.

Of particular importance is the fact that with wave rejuvenation any chance of infection is completely excluded. Even an inexperienced cosmetologist, come up with such an idea, could not carry it out, this is a great advantage of the procedure over many other manipulations that require antibiotics that reduce the risk of inflammatory processes.

And, of course, a big bonus is the opportunity to go about your business immediately after the procedure - none of the friends and colleagues you have met will notice that you have changed your appearance in any way. This cannot be said about plastic operations, after which a person falls out of the usual rhythm of life for at least 10-14 days.

In systems of radio frequency rejuvenation, several systems are used, which are used by all modern beauty salons. Conventionally, they are divided into several basic types.

Monopolar - this works two main electrodes through which an electric current passes. The first is changing, and the second is static, while the maximum temperature rise is localized in those places where the movable electrode is located. The depth of the impact of this method is 2-3 centimeters.

It has been scientifically proven that unipolar lifting has significant drawbacks, which include a strong thermal effect on the skin, as well as contact with a secondary magnetic field, which presents certain risks for the functioning of internal organs.

The consequences of this procedure can be burns, scar formation, as well as changes in the structure of subcutaneous tissue. Of course, the risk of such consequences is not so great, but, nevertheless, it is better to be safe, especially nowadays there are more gentle and effective methods of working with radio waves. In addition, monopolar rejuvenation can be used only once, therefore, recourse to such a technique makes sense only if it is a question of combating fat and deposits and cellulite on the stomach and legs. If a facial care procedure is required, bi-or multi-polar lifting should be preferred.

Bipolar are characterized by greater safety in comparison with monopolar ones, since in this case the electrodes are located close to each other, at the same time the degree of impact is small and does not exceed the distance between them.

Multi-polar - this method assumes the presence of a large number of electrodes within a single handpiece. However, only one pair functions at a time, and by using a special scheme that defines the working elements, the system makes it possible to achieve the most uniform and exceptionally safe impact with a depth of 1.5-2 cm.

Combined is a common name for a variety of techniques, the most popular of which is considered vacuum. When it captures one fold, which allows the device to have a more intense impact. Combinations of radio wave flux and laser radiation have become widespread. Such a tandem causes a more intense warming. In modern clinics, devices are installed that have a built-in cooling system, which reduces the risk of burns, but at the same time they are less effective.

In recent years, device manufacturers have been working on the task of maximally deep penetration of radio waves under the skin.For this they use the most diverse types of metal electrodes that are applied to the skin. The classic version involves the mechanism of vacuum suction of the skin in the nozzle, but the creation of the needle lifting was a real discovery. This method of rejuvenation effectively solves all the problems associated with the supply of heat into the deeper layers of the skin. With microneedles, it reaches a depth of up to 3.5 mm, thus forming the necessary radio-frequency pulses. Further - more: in addition to electromagnetic rays, the skin gets imperceptible to the eye punctures from the needles - these microdamages stimulate the start of regeneration processes and, thus, in one fell swoop and form young collagen fibers and the process of formation of skin protein begins.

RF rejuvenation is an effective procedure, which is resorted to in the following cases:

• with the manifestation of age-related changes of the skin, the appearance of wrinkles, pronounced nasolabial and frontal folds, as well as “crow's feet” in the corners of the eyes;
• with the "floated" facial oval, which occurs when the upper layers of the dermis and subcutaneous fat are partially sagged;
• with acne, accompanied by the appearance of scars and browning;
• during photo-aging, which implies the appearance of wrinkles and folds under the influence of ultraviolet irradiation.

In addition, the following aesthetic problems are considered indications for RF lifting:

• stretch marks that appear during intensive weight loss and after childbirth;
• local fat deposits;
• sagging of large areas of skin after pregnancy and childbirth;
• age wilting of the skin, flabbiness and deterioration of elasticity.

Like any other intervention in the internal systems of the body, the RF-lifting has contraindications for use.

First of all, they include the presence of such diseases as:

• oncological processes;
• diabetes;
• viral infections;
• inflammations of blood vessels and capillaries;
• autoimmune diseases of the connective tissue;
• endocrine pathologies;

• hypertension;
• epilepsy;
• impaired blood clotting;
• skin diseases and other violations of the integrity of the skin;
• fever and fever;
• severe neurological diseases.

Also, one should not resort to radio wave rejuvenation of pregnant and lactating women, as well as persons in the decompensation stage of chronic and cardiovascular diseases.

Any cosmetic procedures are carried out in specialized cosmetic clinics where certified equipment is installed.

RF-lifting is based on two basic principles of work:

• Diathermy. It assumes tissue heating under the influence of alternating electric current. The active substance, which transmits operating currents, contains heat inside itself, due to which both the skin itself and subcutaneous fat are more intensely exposed to thermal effects. TriWorks machines as well as IntraDerma work in this technique - they are based on Aluma technology, which involves the use of metal electrodes.
• Electromagnetic field exposure (UHF). In this case, the mechanism of action is similar to the principle of operation of the kitchen microwave, during which the tissue molecules completely change their location. Since the force field orienting them is attributed to a variable, then, accordingly, the frequency of changing its position is equal to the frequency of the field itself. This effect is called the “dipole shift”, while heating occurs due to the direct relationship between the heating level of the subcutaneous tissue and the energy of the moving molecules.

According to this standard, devices operate on Thermage technology. Among them, the most widespread equipment brand Revital RF. A distinctive feature of such devices is coating with a dielectric layer.

In addition to these devices, in modern clinics you can often see the device IntraDerma. However, technologies are constantly being improved, so it is possible that in the beauty salon you will see a more modern model for RF lifting. This should not scare you, however, before agreeing on a similar procedure, it makes sense to study the novelty and get acquainted with the reviews about it.

For example, the Scarlet device is one of the most popular cosmetic clinics and salons among visitors. Its effectiveness is associated with deep penetration of radio waves into the layers of the epidermis, which stimulates the enhanced formation of collagen, and this process occurs not only on the surface of tissues, but also deep inside.

The use of the Scarlet RF system combats swelling, contour sagging and eliminates deep wrinkles.

Not less popular is Infini for 3D RF lifting, thanks to which you can remove a second chin, tighten sagging cheeks and reduce wrinkles. This device is also effectively fighting scars and scars, but only a specialist can decide how justified the use of this device in each case.

Fractional RF lifting on a Matrix RF machine is equally effectiveMoreover, this development of the Israeli concern Syneron has been widely used in cosmetology since 2010. Today, it is probably the most effective apparatus for classical rejuvenation using radio frequencies, which combines lifting and fractional thermolysis, due to which the skin is affected by many tiny electrodes that provide the result that lasts for a year.

However, if you decide to do rejuvenation yourself at home, then you should first get acquainted as closely as possible with the method of work, and with the technical and operational features of the device. You must follow them exactly, otherwise the risk of injury increases dramatically.

The main stages of manipulation are similar to the salon:

• first you need to clean the skin with a scrub, tonic and water;
• then comes the stage of direct exposure to the skin with the help of the selected apparatus, the principle of its action should be detailed in the instructions;
• then a soothing mask is applied, which improves the condition of the skin and contributes to its final regeneration.

Experts recommend to give preference to Gezatone brand devices, which are classified as complex due to the triple effect on the subcutaneous layers using radio waves, ultrasound and light.

Another device that received the most positive feedback from users is Newa, which causes a pretty good effect of radio wave rejuvenation at home.

The procedure of preparing for radio wave rejuvenation does not require much effort, but to know some of its nuances is necessary.

Immediately before the lifting should not use cosmetics and creams. The skin before treatment should be thoroughly cleansed.

Contact lenses and glasses, if any, should be removed, and men should shave smoothly.

The doctor applies a special gel to the cleansed skin of the patient, which serves as a conductor between the tissues and the radio wave.

Then the doctor, using special attachments (handles), massages the skin along the necessary lines. In general, the procedure lasts from 15 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the work and the tasks assigned.

Immediately after the radio lifting you can see a significant improvement in appearance - the skin becomes fresher, toned and young.

The manipulations themselves do not cause the slightest discomfort to the patients. During the treatment, they feel only a slight warm tingling.

In order to consolidate the achieved results, it is necessary to undergo several procedures, optimally from 5 to 8 with an interval of 1.5-2 weeks. Despite the obvious positive effect immediately after the session, the collagen production processes are triggered for another three weeks, so the maximum effect is achieved after 21 days.

Doctors cosmetologists note that immediately after the end of the radiofrequency procedures on the skin tissue, the patient may experience slight swelling and redness. These symptoms go away after 2-3 days, but for this you should follow all the recommendations given by the doctor.

You can not forget about the need for good moisturizing of the skin, for this you need to use moisturizing cosmetics and use at least 2.5-3 liters of water daily.

During the week after the procedures it is worth refraining from sunbathing, visiting beaches, tanning beds and sun-exposed areas.

The use of decorative cosmetics should also be postponed for a week or even two, in order to maintain cleanliness of the integument and to prevent clogged pores and sweat glands.

During the recovery period, saunas, baths and swimming pools are not allowed. Peeling and abrasive scrubs can also harm the skin during the recovery period.

At first, you should limit physical exertion, and you should also think about giving up bad habits, adjust nutrition and minimize stressful situations.

Leading plastic surgeons say the high efficiency of the RF-lifting procedurehowever, they emphasize that only a professional cosmetologist should carry out the manipulations. The fact is that the temperature working with this method is 40-60 degrees, and if it is made lower, the procedures will have no effect, and if the temperature is increased, a serious skin burn can be obtained, which later will cause the formation of an ugly scar.

For information on how the RF lifting procedure goes, see the following video.