Does RF Microneedling Burn (Facial) Fat?

RF microneedling, also known as radiofrequency microneedling, has gained popularity for its ability to stimulate collagen production and enhance skin texture. 

By creating controlled micro-channels in the skin and delivering radiofrequency energy, this treatment triggers the body’s natural healing process, resulting in plumper, tighter skin. But can it really melt fat? 

This article dives into the science behind RF microneedling, dispelling myths and uncovering the facts.

We’ll explore how it works, its true capabilities, and whether it can genuinely reduce fat. 

Plus, we’ll discuss the benefits of RF microneedling for skin rejuvenation beyond fat loss, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about this innovative treatment. 

The main points are:

• RF energy can stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture by creating heat in the skin.

• If the heat penetrates deeply enough, it can also melt fat beneath the skin.

• There is a risk of unintended fat loss if the RF microneedling device is not used correctly.

• Consulting with qualified providers or medical professionals that understand the technology is important to avoid unwanted fat reduction.

How RF Microneedling Works

RF microneedling, also known as radiofrequency microneedling, has become a popular treatment for stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture. 

It utilizes tiny needles to create controlled micro-channels in the skin, while simultaneously delivering radiofrequency (RF) energy. 

This triggers the body’s natural healing response, leading to increased collagen and elastin production, which plumps and tightens the skin.

However, there’s a widespread narrative that RF microneedling can cause fat loss. While it might be effective for skin tightening, let’s explore the science behind fat reduction.

Related article: Potenza™ RF Microneedling For Hyperpigmentation

Can RF Microneedling Melt Facial Fat?

Fat loss relies on a process called lipolysis, where fat cells are broken down and released from the body.

RF fat melting treatments, on the other hand, use controlled radiofrequency energy to heat fat cells, aiming to damage their membranes and trigger the release of fatty acids. 

While effective for targeted fat reduction in some cases, it’s important to note that RF microneedling needles typically don’t reach the deeper layers where most fat cells reside.

Devices that cause fat cell death via heat are often referred to as ‘melting’ fat.

SculpSure® is one such treatment that uses high temperatures to destroy fat.

SculpSure® uses laser technology to non-invasively warm fat cells to a specific temperature—107 to 116 degrees Fahrenheit—causing apoptosis (cell death) without harming the skin.

‘Melting’ in this context refers to the process of using heat to kill the fat cells rather than an action that directly melts the fat.

So, will RF microneedling treatment definitively melt fat? No, not exactly.

RF energy creates heat in the skin, which can stimulate collagen production for skin rejuvenation.

However, if the heat penetrates deeply enough, it can also reach the fat beneath the skin and melt it.

In most cases, Fat loss from an RF microneedling treatment can occur when unqualified providers use these machines without fully understanding the implications, potentially causing unintended fat reduction.

Can Morpheus8 Cause Fat Loss?

Having said that, RF microneedling technologies like Morpheus8 Body are sometimes claimed to offer more significant fat reduction.

Morpheus8 (M8) Body is a radiofrequency microneedling technology FDA and Health Canada-approved for deep tissue remodeling.

This minimally invasive treatment aims to tighten skin, reduce fat, and improve the overall tone and texture of the skin.

The needles in Morpheus8 Body, coated with a protective layer, penetrate the tissue beneath the skin…

Delivering controlled RF energy  to the targeted areas. For fat reduction, depths of 4-8mm are used.

Related: Ultherapy vs. RF Microneedling: Which is Right for Your Skin?

Benefits Of RF Microneedling for Skin Rejuvenation Beyond Fat Loss

While the fat-burning claims may be overstated and the specific temperatures and frequencies for fat loss may vary, RF microneedling operates on the same principle to achieve skin-tightening benefits.

By stimulating collagen production, RF microneedling helps to tighten loose skin on the face, neck, and other areas.

This can be particularly beneficial for addressing concerns like a “turkey neck” appearance. 

The increased collagen production also helps to fill in wrinkles and fine lines, giving the skin a smoother, more youthful look.

Additionally, RF microneedling can improve the overall texture and tone of the skin, minimizing the appearance of pores and acne scars.

Related article: Is Potenza™ Good For Acne Scars?

Individualized Treatment Plans for Optimal Results

While RF microneedling offers a range of benefits, it’s important to remember that everyone’s skin is unique.

Underlying conditions like rosacea or severe acne may require a different approach. 

At Dr. Lian Beauty, we use Cynosure Potenza rf microneedling device.

Our experienced medical professionals can assess your individual needs and recommend the most suitable treatment plan,  including exploring alternative options if RF microneedling is not the best fit for you.

Related: What is Potenza™ RF Microneedling: The Secret To Flawless Skin

Conclusion

RF microneedling offers a non-surgical approach to achieving smoother, tighter, and more youthful-looking skin.

While it may not be the go-to treatment for fat loss, it can be a valuable tool in your overall skincare routine.

For a dedicated fat-reduction treatment, consider our PCDC Lipolysis treatment.

 By understanding the science behind the treatment and discussing your goals with a qualified professional, you can make an informed decision about whether RF microneedling is the right choice for you.