- As the body ages, it slows production of elastin and collagen, causing wrinkles to appear and skin to sag.
- Radiofrequency is a non-invasive skin treatment that effectively reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Until recently, treatments were only performed by licensed skin experts, but more affordable at-home options are now available.
Judging from their reviews, radiofrequency machines are nothing short of spectacular: these high-tech devices allegedly produce immediately noticeable results, without the pain and recovery time associated with surgical rejuvenation treatments — and at a fraction of the cost.
Should you invest in getting your very own machine? We investigated the effectiveness of at-home radiofrequency procedures and reviewed the best consumer devices on the market.
What Can Radiofrequency Do for Your Skin?
Radiofrequency (RF) procedures fall into the category of non-surgical skin tightening treatments, along with ultrasound and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL).
These procedures all stimulate collagen and elastin production to improve skin tone and texture, minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and “crepiness” in the process. Some treatments can even help reduce the appearance of cellulite by affecting fibrous tissue.
Radiofrequency focuses energy on the skin’s epidermal layers (the top layer you actually see) to help make it appear firmer and smoother. Many people use it to tighten skin in the face and neck, but treatments can also be performed on other parts of the body, such as the stomach or thighs.
It can take as little as 30 minutes to treat the face. The procedure is painless, although some users do report feeling the heat from the machine during treatments, and mild redness or swelling shortly after. The procedure is also entirely non-invasive, which means that no downtime is required.
Most treatments are safe for all skin types, although they may not be if combined with IPL. Between two and six sessions may be required to achieve optimal results. Significant differences gradually appear after a few months, and results can last up to one year. Maintenance procedures may be needed periodically thereafter to renew the effects.
It’s important to note that skin tightening treatments don’t have much effect on advanced skin sagging, such as that which occurs after pregnancy or extreme weight loss. However, if you have mild to moderate wrinkles or loose skin, using a non-surgical skin tightening procedure such as RF can help significantly.
Do At-Home Machines Work?
Until recently, radiofrequency was only performed by licensed skin experts and cosmetic doctors. In the past few years a wide array of affordable, non-professional machines have hit the market, making it possible to treat yourself in the comfort of your own home.
Generally speaking, these devices are not as powerful as those found in the doctor’s office. With at-home devices, multiple sessions will be needed to achieve the equivalent results of a few doctor’s appointments. However, at-home radiofrequency machines only cost between $30 and $1,000 USD, with most falling in the middle of that range. In-office procedures, on the other hand, often start at $1,000 and can go up to $5,000 USD or more, per course of treatments.
A study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology in late 2014 found that more than 90% of test subjects experienced wrinkle reduction and skin tightening after undergoing at-home treatments – as rated by three independent reviewers who were also board-certified dermatologists.
In the study, participants used the NEWA Skin Care System for at least five treatments a week for one month. The independent reviewers assessed images taken one month before and after the treatment. They also conducted one- and three-month follow-ups with the patients. The NEWA Skin Care System went on to become the first device of its kind to be cleared by the FDA as an energy-based, at-home wrinkle reduction device.
Various other studies have found that at-home RF machines can help reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, skin laxity around the eyebrows as well as other facial wrinkles and lines. In short, experts confirm that at-home RF treatments can be a convenient and cost-effective way to fight the signs of aging in the comfort of your own home.
Our Review: Not All RF Machines Are Created Equal
A quality at-home RF machine isn’t a small investment, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. We’ve done the homework and rounded up the four most popular modules here.
MLAY RF Radio Frequency Facial And Body Skin Tightening Machine
Safe skin tightening machine based on RF technology. Best device for skin tightening, wrinkles, and anti-aging. Automatically adjust the energy depending on the temperature of the skin. This machine will trigger the skin healing process stimulating the skin to produce collagen.
DEESS Lift Toner
Microneedling Pen is a cordless and handheld skincare device for home use. This micro-needling device can be used to improve your skin conditions. Enables replacement cartridges that are convenient to use and replace: different speed levels and adjustor.
