SECRET RF: MICRONEEDLING WITH RADIOFREQUENCY
“I am so excited about the results from my series of Secret™ RF treatments. Almost immediately after the treatment I noticed an improvement in my skin texture. And now, after 3 months, I see overall tightening of my skin including my jowls and my neck which are both problem areas.” —DB, Tenafly
“I’ve been following this technology of microneedling with radiofrequency (MNRF) as it has evolved into an effective treatment that I want to offer as an option to my patients. After comparing the available devices, I chose Cutera’s Secret™ RF. I had the procedure done myself and I am thrilled with the minimal downtime, minimal discomfort and noticeable results.” —Dr. Michele Grodberg
If you’re considering treatment with Secret™ RF, here are Dr. Grodberg’s answers to a few frequently asked questions:
WHAT IS SECRET™ RF?
“Secret™ RF is a radiofrequency (RF) fractional microneedling system that delivers heat energy to specific layers of the skin to trigger a healing response typically improving skin texture and tightening skin. MGMD physicians tailor this multi-layered treatment to address each individual’s unique skin concerns in customized treatments.”
WHAT SKIN CONDITIONS DOES IT TREAT?
"Secret™ RF treatment is ideal for improving aging skin, photodamage, fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck, scars, acne scars, skin quality and stretch marks. Secret™ RF is safe and effective, and suitable for all skin types and ethnicities.”
HOW DOES IT WORK?
“Secret™ RF combines micro-needling AND radiofrequency energy. While both treatments are effective when used separately, combined they achieve even better results. Tiny microneedles disrupt the skin surface triggering a healing response while radio frequency energy is delivered into different levels of the skin including the deeper layers. Unlike other devices which only deposit energy in the upper layer of the skin, Secret™ RF delivers radiofrequency energy deeply into the skin where it’s needed most to help revitalize and regenerate the skin’s collagen and elastic fibers. This unique approach achieves optimal results with little to no downtime on all skin types.”
WHAT IS IT LIKE TO GET A SECRET™ RF PROCEDURE?
“Secret™ RF is an easy, safe and effective procedure involving a quick, 20-minute treatment session. During treatment, you will feel a slight heating and some pressure on the treatment area. Most patients find the treatment is tolerable and the MGMD Dermatology physicians have options to keep you comfortable. Prior to the procedure, a numb¬ing cream is applied to the treatment area to increase comfort during the procedure.”
WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF SECRET™ RF?
Secret™ RF is very safe with only a few known side effects and little down time. Side effects can include:
- Redness lasting 1-2 days
- Minor swelling lasting up to 3 days
- Minor bruising (rare)
- Skin color changes (rare and most common in dark skin patients)
- Patterning of treated skin (temporary)
- Infection (rare)
HOW MANY SECRET™ RF TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
“Patients typically need 3-4 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. Most patients report seeing improve¬ment after the second treatment however results are optimized 3 months after the last treatment.”
HOW LONG DOES A TREATMENT LAST?
“Results vary based on the individual. To maintain results, maintenance treatments are recommended every 12-18 months.”
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER MY PROCEDURE?
“Your skin will be red, warm and tingling immediately after the treatment and subside within a few hours. Some redness may still be present the next morning and there may be minimal swelling but most patients can return to work the next day without any obvious effects. After the treatment, a soothing biocellulose recovery mask will be applied to the skin for 5-10 minutes and you will be asked to refrain from applying anything to your skin for a number of hours. Makeup should not be applied for 24 hours after the procedure.”
MGMD® MAINTENANCE AND CARE REGIMEN:
(MGMD® Biocellulose Recovery Mask MGMD® Non Drying Gentle Cleanser, MGMD® Antioxidant Green Tea Cream, MGMD® Relief Cream, MGMD® Recovery Complex)
Immediately Post Secret™ RF: DO NOT APPLY ANYTHING TO YOUR SKIN UNLESS INSTRUCTED BY YOUR DOCTOR.
Anytime after 4 Hours: Apply MGMD® Biocellulose Recovery Mask
After 12 Hours – Week 1:
Follow the regimen below for 7 days and then resume your normal skin care routine:
AM
MGMD® Green Tea Antioxidant Soothing Cleanser
MGMD® Antioxidant Green Tea Cream CF and/or Evenglow Vitamins CE+GTP
MGMD® Relief Cream and/or MGMD® Barrier Repair Cream
MGMD® Sheer Effect Sunscreen SPF 50+ or ISDIN
PM
MGMD® Green Tea Antioxidant Soothing Cleanser
MGMD® Antioxidant Green Tea Cream CF
MGMD® Relief Cream and/or MGMD® Barrier Repair Cream