RF lifting is a radiofrequency radiation procedure used in aesthetic cosmetology offices. It is based on the beneficial effects of radio waves and electricity on the inner layers of the skin, which are responsible for firmness and elasticity.
The method of treating diseases using high-frequency currents has been used since 1908. The scientist R. Tseynik introduced it into medicine, but it was called diathermy. Twenty years later, it was discovered that ultra-high frequency therapy has many indications. Only in 2001, based on previously obtained information, Thermage was developed. This technique became a prerequisite for further developments and the appearance of RF-lifting on the market of cosmetic services.
RF lifting is often used to treat the skin on the face, but can be prescribed for other areas of the body.
What is radiofrequency lifting
Girls who are interested in their appearance know that the function of collagen, which is produced by fibroblasts, is to maintain the firmness and elasticity of the skin. With age, the process of cell renewal slows down. Elastin and collagen begin to be produced worse. The skin becomes covered with a network of wrinkles and sags.
What is radiofrequency face and body lifting ? This is the effect of electrical discharges on the dermis, after which the cells begin to more actively produce collagen.
The main task of modern hardware cosmetology is to create effective, but at the same time comfortable and painless procedures. Thirty years ago, the first lifting devices practically burned the face, but today the specialist only lightly touches the surface of the skin without causing discomfort.
Read material on the topic: Hardware cosmetology clinic: the most popular procedures
Radiofrequency lifting and thermage are not the same thing
Thermage is a rejuvenating hardware procedure. Its essence is the effect of radio frequency waves, which locally heat areas of the skin. The temperature at the treatment site rises to +60 °C.
The table shows the distinctive features of Thermage and radiofrequency lifting:
History of the method
N. Tesla was the first to prove the possibility of high-frequency current affecting humans at the end of the 19th century. And already at the beginning of the 20th century, his achievements began to be used in physiotherapy. The diathermy procedure was carried out for orthopedic treatment, but its side effect was the impact on the skin and subcutaneous layers.
In the 30s of the same century, UHF therapy began to be used. Many of us have experienced its influence on ourselves during physiotherapy.
It took scientists almost a century to develop the method of thermage, one of the types of radiolifting. Now all devices for radiolifting use one of two methods - diathermy and UHF therapy. In this case, the temperature in the treated areas rises to 23 degrees.
What devices are used for radiofrequency lifting?
Now it is difficult to imagine that the first devices consisted of two electrodes that were simply attached to the skin. During the session, it was difficult to regulate the heating level, so redness, burns and swelling occurred after the procedure. In modern clinics, such monopolar devices for radiofrequency lifting are no longer used, since more high-tech ones have been developed.
- Multipolar machines - have several electrodes, two work simultaneously, then switch automatically.
- Bipolar devices allow you to act effectively and carefully. If a woman comes for the procedure with very dry skin and hidden imperfections, she can also undergo a rejuvenating course with a bipolar device.
- Combined devices are a new generation of multipolar lifting devices.
They are equipped in accordance with the requirements of the time:
- multipolar electrode;
- unipolar electrode;
- infrared laser radiation;
- vacuum pump, which allows you to act locally.
Improvement of blood circulation in the skin occurs already at the stage of working with a vacuum pump. Fibroblasts “wake up” and begin to actively produce collagen and elastin.
Read material on the topic: Plasmolifting of the face - a breakthrough in domestic cosmetology
Features of preparation for the procedure
RF lifting does not require special preparation. All you need is to undergo an examination to exclude contraindications. You must first remove jewelry and other metal objects and remove contact lenses.
After the procedure, you need to avoid active physical activity, as well as solariums and baths for some period. To better cleanse the body of waste products, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids. It is not recommended to perform other cosmetic anti-aging procedures on the day of the visit. The area being treated must be protected from irritation.
Advantages and disadvantages of radiofrequency lifting
Let's look at why radiofrequency (or RF) lifting is a modern replacement for plastic surgery in the fight against skin aging.
Here are the main advantages of this technology:
- effective for all skin types, the procedure can be done from 18 years of age;
- The session goes quickly, lasting about half an hour;
- compatible with other skin care methods;
- passes without pain and discomfort;
- can be performed without prior preparation;
- after the session there are no scars, burns, swelling, the skin does not require a recovery period.
The following can be considered disadvantages:
- high price for radiofrequency face lifting;
- there is a chance of getting to an inexperienced cosmetologist and getting burns if he works with a monopolar device;
- There is little information about the effect of radiofrequency pulses on the entire body.
Like other cosmetic procedures, radiofrequency lifting has contraindications that are worth paying attention to.
Read material on the topic: How to remove wrinkles on the face: the most effective methods
Three types of RF belly lift
There are three types of radiofrequency lifting. The required method is selected by a specialist after examination and consultation.
- Tripolar.
- Bipolar method.
- Monopolar method.
This method is an innovation in cosmetology. Its essence lies in the simultaneous action of a number of electrodes, which have an active effect on several layers of the dermis. The skin is more sensitive to constantly changing electrodes. The tripolar method is suitable for older clients or is used in cases where exposure to a large area is required. This technique allows you to get rid of fat deposits and cellulite of varying degrees and depths.
Bipolar RF lifting is suitable for clients with sensitive skin or a low pain threshold. During the procedure, the device minimally heats the treatment area. In this case, radio waves do not form a magnetic field, which means that there will be no unpleasant sensations during the session.
It is worth noting that the bipolar method is completely safe in terms of side effects. But the cost of the procedure is much higher compared to monopolar RF lifting. The maximum effect can be achieved with a course of radio wave treatment. This procedure is indicated for women and men aged 30–35 to maintain skin tone and prevent the occurrence of deep wrinkles.
It is believed that the monopolar technique allows for the best results. Just one session can tighten the skin of the face, thighs and abdomen, and also get rid of cellulite.
During the procedure, the client may feel pain and tingling. However, monopolar RF lifting is also completely safe. The session is not repeated to avoid complications.
Recommended articles on the topic:
- Dietary products for weight loss: how to choose the healthiest and most delicious ones
- Thermal detoxification: lightness of the body and clear skin
- Weight correction: everything you need to know about the procedure
Indications and contraindications for radiofrequency lifting
A course of radiofrequency (RF) lifting helps to correct many age-related skin changes. Any woman, looking at herself in the mirror, can assess the condition of the dermis and come for a consultation with a cosmetologist. After examination, the specialist will determine whether this procedure is necessary.
Lifting may be useful if you have the following problems:
- age and expression wrinkles;
- the corners of the eyes and mouth drooped;
- imperfections and defects of the dermis that require treatment and rehabilitation;
- folds have formed at the nasolabial triangle;
- the oval of the face blurs and loses its shape;
- a double chin appeared;
- dark circles and bags under the eyes;
- very dry and flabby skin, low tone;
- scars, scars, pockmarks, rosacea, post-acne;
- sagging skin or ptosis;
- “orange peel” cellulite;
- aging of the dermis in different parts of the body: décolleté, neck, face, hips, abdomen, buttocks;
- stretch marks after sudden weight loss or after childbirth.
How radiofrequency lifting works, look at the before and after photos:
Experts disagree about the minimum age threshold at which this procedure can be performed. The reviews here are very different. Some consider it possible to do sessions even for twenty-year-olds as a preventive measure for skin aging. For others it seems premature. They advise using such radical methods only if there are serious deficiencies that cannot be eliminated in any other way.
Recommended articles on the topic:
- How to properly care for your skin
- Ultrasound facial cleansing: features of the procedure, indications and contraindications
- Microcurrent facial therapy is a beneficial treatment for your skin
All cosmetologists consider it acceptable and effective to carry out such procedures after 30–35 years, up to 55–60 years (even at this age you can get good results, however, the course will have to be completed several times).
The consequences of radiofrequency lifting can be serious and unpredictable if contraindications are neglected:
- the presence of metal or silicone implants anywhere in the body;
- the client’s young age, less than 20 years, with the exception of solving problems that cannot be influenced by other means;
- presence of a hearing aid or pacemaker;
- open skin lesions - cuts, ulcers, burns, wounds;
- hypertonic disease;
- skin systemic diseases;
- pathologies of the thyroid gland, diabetes mellitus;
- inflammation of the skin of any origin;
- oncological problems;
- autoimmune pathologies;
- any chronic diseases in the acute phase or seasonal infectious diseases;
- taking certain medications: sulfonamides, hormonal drugs, anticoagulants, antibiotics;
- period of pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- days of menstruation;
- low blood clotting.
Such a large list indicates that a preliminary consultation with a cosmetologist must be carried out without fail. The responsibility here is mutual.
There are absolute contraindications that serve as a ban on performing ultrasonic radiofrequency lifting, and some are only a temporary restriction.
Read material on the topic: Laser facial skin rejuvenation: useful tips and recommendations
Contraindications
In order to determine whether RF lifting procedures can be performed, you need to consult a doctor you trust. He will see if you have any contraindications for such manipulations. These are the following conditions and diseases: pregnancy and breastfeeding, tumors, viral and chronic illnesses, hypertension, diabetes, epilepsy. These procedures are prohibited in the presence of implants, including in the oral cavity, in the treated areas. A contraindication is also the presence of a large number of acne.
How does the radiofrequency lifting procedure work?
The first stage is facial cleansing. Complete removal of dirt and makeup residues. Not a single procedure is complete without this stage. You need to wash your face thoroughly using a soap solution.
The second stage is applying markings. This is necessary so that the specialist knows exactly where the treatment has already been carried out.
The third stage directly depends on the type of device. At this step, conductive gel is applied if necessary.
The fourth stage is the procedure itself. The specialist sequentially passes through all areas of the skin, lingering on each one to warm up.
The fifth stage is processing. Upon completion, a gel or special soothing lotion is applied.
Depending on the surface being treated, the session can last from twenty minutes to an hour. A specialist will spend 40 minutes on RF face lifting, treating the area from the nose to the chin will take half an hour, and treating the shoulders of both arms will take 30–40 minutes.
A full course can last from four to twelve sessions with a break of five or even seven days.
Read material on the topic: Skin redermalization: all the pros and cons
Radiofrequency lifting: possible consequences
The procedure for radiofrequency body and face lifting is characterized by the absence of negative side effects and complications. Safety confirmed by preliminary studies. Of course, taking into account contraindications. But no specialist can guarantee 100% that something unexpected will not happen later.
Attention! The human body is a very complex system. Some internal changes do not manifest themselves externally for a long time, but any procedure, even the most harmless one, can trigger pathological processes. Allergies may appear for no apparent reason. Then you will definitely have to give up lifting and switch to other anti-aging technologies.
The following manifestations have been noted, usually passing quickly:
- slight swelling;
- tingling and mild itching;
- redness in the treatment area.
Usually, after a few hours or a maximum of two to three days, the normal condition of the skin is restored.
If the symptoms persist and bother you, then it is better not to delay your visit to the specialist who performed the fractional radiofrequency lifting session.
Sometimes you can observe a complete lack of results for a client. Such a negative consequence is possible if the patient is over 60 years old, the initial condition of the skin was poor before the procedure, inappropriate equipment was used, or the manipulation was performed by a cosmetologist with low qualifications.
Some experts express the opinion, although it is not confirmed by research, that the opposite effect is possible after completing a radiofrequency lifting course. This means that the skin will not look young for a long time, but, on the contrary, the aging process will go faster in a short period of time.
However, it was not possible to prove that the acceleration of the skin aging process occurred due to the lifting procedures performed.
Read material on the topic: Cryotherapy in a beauty salon - transformation with the help of cold
Patient reviews
Comprehensive information on radiolifting and the specifics of its implementation can only be obtained from a competent specialist. On numerous forums and clinic websites there are reviews from patients who were satisfied with the technique or, conversely, did not receive the expected effect.
Svetlana K.
“The procedure is simply amazing! All my friends have already experienced the results, especially those who decided to tighten their skin after childbirth with the help of microneedles. The cosmetologist helped me remove wrinkles around the eyes, on the forehead and nasolabial folds. The skin smoothed out and began to glow from the inside.”
Albina V.
“After the first two procedures, nothing happened. I went to the doctor to stop therapy, but he said that it was necessary to complete the full course. Imagine my surprise when after the 4th session the effect was 100% evident! The skin tightened up very much, and in addition, it began to look fresh, even in the morning. I stopped using decorative cosmetics, and no one even noticed.”
Recommendations for skin care before and after radiofrequency lifting
What a client undergoing a course of procedures needs to remember:
- All metal objects, jewelry, and contact lenses must be removed for the duration of the session;
- You should protect your skin from direct sunlight, do not sunbathe or visit a solarium for at least three days after lifting;
- Avoid any other types of care in the treatment area;
- Do not take anti-inflammatory medications for a week or more after the procedure;
- It is advisable not to touch the skin with your hands at the site of exposure;
- As a supportive measure, increase your vitamin C intake.
It is necessary to avoid visiting the solarium, bathhouse, and not to peel the skin immediately before the lifting session. The dermis should be clean, without makeup.
Radiofrequency lifting is good to combine with mesotherapy, which helps relieve stress and nourish the skin with antioxidants.
The rejuvenating effect will be more noticeable if the next day after the procedure you perform a lymphatic drainage massage that removes excess intercellular fluid.
Read material on the topic: Facial mesotherapy procedure: pros and cons
Compatible with other procedures
Of course, after RF lifting you can see a wonderful result. But, of course, you want to achieve even more.
To do this, it is recommended to combine this procedure with other cosmetic procedures.
A better effect can be achieved if you also carry out mesotherapy, anti-cellulite massage, and body wraps.
Many doctors advise supplementing RF lift with plasma lifting. This is a procedure for injecting a person's own plasma.
Where in Moscow to sign up for radiofrequency lifting
Nowadays, you no longer have to spend a lot of time performing complex and unpleasant procedures at home. It is much easier to seek help from real professionals - the Veronika Herba beauty and health center, equipped with effective and modern equipment.
Why clients choose Veronika Herba Beauty and Health Center:
- This is a beauty center where you can take care of yourself at a reasonable cost, while your face and/or body will be treated not by an ordinary cosmetologist, but by one of the best dermatologists in Moscow. This is a completely different, higher level of service!
- You can receive qualified help at any time convenient for you. The beauty center is open from 9:00 to 21:00, seven days a week. The main thing is to agree with your doctor in advance on the date and time of your appointment.
Sign up for a consultation with a specialist by phone 8 (495) 995-15-13
, and you will see for yourself!
Expert opinion
- Surgeon
- Cosmetologist
Elsa Borodina
plastic surgeon
I would like to note that RF face lifting is not indicated for rosacea. We often use this procedure in our practice. It helps reduce swelling during the postoperative period.
Irina Dorofeeva
practicing cosmetologist
In order for the effect of RF body lifting to bring joy, you cannot remain silent during the consultation about existing contraindications.
Then the pre-procedure examination will allow the professional to fully assess the patient’s health condition and carry out the manipulation “at its best”. The procedure is successfully used by many patients. They are not afraid of side effects that look like redness of the skin and swelling on it. This happens quite rarely, and soon disappears. We, specialists, are pleased that no one now doubts the effectiveness of RF body lifting. RF body lifting is a wonderful way to rejuvenate the skin of problem areas. Moreover, the result is achieved without injections or incisions. Radiolifting carefully cares for the skin and prevents it from aging for a long period.
