The Paragon Effect – Chris' experience with radiofrequency microneedling for acne scarring
In this instalment of The Paragon Effect, we explain how Dr. Chloe’s patient Chris transformed the acne scarring he was left with after suffering from severe acne in his teenage years through the help of radiofrequency microneedling treatment.
Radiofrequency microneedling is a collagen-boosting treatment, often referred to as the ‘non-surgical face lift’ due to its skin rejuvenating and tightening results. The treatment combines two of the most effective skin rejuvenation treatments, radiofrequency and microneedling, during which tiny sterile needles create microscopic punctures in the skin to deliver radiofrequency energy to specific depths within the skin. This heats the tissues and in response more collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid is produced, working wonders to repair scarring.
Consultation
- Initial consultation to discuss concerns and treatment outcomes
- Decided on 3-6 sessions of radiofrequency microneedling spaced 4 weeks apart
Presenting complaints
- Severe acne as a teenager which has left scarring
- Finished roacctuane around 12 years ago
- Main concern cheek and temple where deep scarring visible
- Does not like scarring in sunlight and summer season as feels it is more obvious and looks bad texture to skin and also quite dull
Facial assessment determined by Dr. Chloe
- Skin thickness: Thick
- Hydration: Good
- Hyperpigmentation: Nil
- Scarring: Deep icepick scarring on cheeks and temples, widespread rolling scars on cheeks and temple
- Skin tone: Even skin tone but textural deformities causing overall dull tone
Treatment process
- Full cleansing process
- Topical anaesthesia placement for 20 minutes
- Radiofrequency microneedling on full face focusing deeper depth and increased radiofrequency waves on deeper scarring regions
- Avoid active and strong skin products for 72 hours pre and post treatment
- Avoid any product on the skin for 24 hours post-treatment as open micro channels are present on the skin for 24 hours
Treatment plan
- Initial consultation to discuss concerns and expectations
- First radiofrequency microneedling session with mild radiofrequency to ensure good skin reaction and healing
- Increase radiofrquency waves throughout sessions
- Assess depth and improvement of scarring 30 days post third treatment and add sessions if required
- Up to 6 treatments and then a 3 month break.
- Assessment of area
Before and after treatment
Speaking on his results, Chris said: “I’ve had acne scarring since my late tees and it’s something that has always bothered me. I wasn’t sure what treatment I could do to try and improve it. My main concern was the depth of the scarring and how visible they were even from a distance. I cannot believe the difference already after the 4 sessions and I know I will continue to see improvements over the next few months as well. The treatment was very comfortable and I can’t recommend it enough. I have had so many people comment on my skin and I have never ever had that before.
“My confidence has grown massively since having the treatment. Not only have my scars improved but my skin as a whole looks so much better.”