Preparing for RF Microneedling: How to Apply Your Own Numbing Cream

Due to TGA regulations, we are unable to apply numbing cream for you directly. However, applying it yourself is an essential step to ensure that you feel comfortable and relaxed during your RF Microneedling treatment. Follow these simple instructions to effectively apply the numbing cream before your appointment.

Steps to Apply Your Numbing Cream

1. Choose the Right Numbing Cream:

   • The most common numbing creams for RF Microneedling contain lidocaine or prilocaine, which are local anesthetics designed to numb the skin temporarily. Your local pharmacy is likely to supply some.

   • If you are stuck trying to find one, we can provide you with a recommended numbing cream or let you know which product to use. If you're unsure, please ask us for guidance.

2. Clean the Treatment Area:

   • Gently cleanse the area to be treated with a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Remove any makeup, oils, or skincare products to ensure the numbing cream can penetrate the skin effectively.

   • Tip: Use lukewarm water and avoid any harsh scrubbing or exfoliating products before applying the numbing cream.

3. Apply the Numbing Cream:

   • Generously apply a thick layer of numbing cream to the treatment area. Be sure to cover the area fully where the RF Microneedling will be performed (e.g., face, neck, décolletage, etc.).

   • Avoid rubbing it in: Leave the cream in a thick layer on the skin, as it works best when it’s not massaged in.

   • Tip: Make sure the entire treatment area is covered—this ensures the numbing cream works evenly across the skin.

4. Wrap with Plastic Film (Optional):

   • If you're applying numbing cream at home, you can cover the treated area with plastic wrap or a plastic film (such as cling film or saran wrap) to help the cream stay in place and enhance its effectiveness.

   • This helps to keep the numbing cream from rubbing off and keeps it moist, which allows the active ingredients to work more effectively.

5. Let the Numbing Cream Set:

   • Allow the numbing cream to sit on your skin for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. This gives the cream sufficient time to penetrate the skin and numb the area thoroughly.

   • Important: Do not remove the cream too early—if you don't leave it on long enough, it may not be effective, and you could experience discomfort during the procedure.

6. Wipe Off the Cream Before Your Appointment:

   • Once the numbing cream has had enough time to take effect, gently wipe away any excess cream using a clean tissue or cotton pad.

   • It's important to remove the numbing cream completely before your treatment to avoid it interfering with the RF Microneedling process.

7. Arrive 5–10 Minutes Early:

   • Timing is key: Ensure you arrive 5-10 minutes before your scheduled appointment time so the clinic staff can confirm that you’re ready for treatment, and there is no excess numbing cream left on the skin.

Additional Tips for a Successful Numbing Cream Application

• Timing: Make sure you give yourself enough time to apply the numbing cream at least 1 hour before your appointment. This ensures that the numbing effect is fully in place when you arrive.

• Skin Sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, you might feel a mild tingling or slight irritation during the numbing process. If this happens, remove the cream after 20–30 minutes to check for any adverse reactions.

• Avoiding Contact with Eyes and Mucous Membranes: Be careful to avoid applying numbing cream too close to your eyes or lips. If accidental contact occurs, wash the area thoroughly with water.

What to Do if You Have Any Issues Applying the Numbing Cream

If you experience any issues with the numbing cream, such as:

• Skin irritation or allergic reactions (redness, swelling, or itching),

• Inadequate numbing after 45 minutes to 1 hour,

Please contact the clinic immediately. We will assist you in troubleshooting any problems and offer alternatives if needed.

Why is Numbing Cream Important for RF Microneedling?

• Comfort: RF Microneedling involves tiny needles that create micro-injuries in the skin, which can cause mild discomfort. Numbing cream helps minimize any pain or sensitivity during the treatment.

• Effectiveness: Properly numbing the area ensures that you can tolerate the procedure better, allowing us to work efficiently and safely to target your specific skin concerns.

Important Reminders:

• Do not skip the numbing process: For a more comfortable treatment, it's essential to apply the numbing cream as instructed and let it sit long enough before your appointment.

• Timing: Ensure you arrive at your appointment with the numbing cream still active and fully absorbed into the skin to maximize comfort during the procedure.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your RF Microneedling treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible.

Benefits of RF Microneedling

RF Microneedling offers a wide range of benefits, targeting multiple skin concerns and promoting overall skin rejuvenation:

• Improves Skin Texture: Reduces the appearance of acne scars, stretch marks, and large pores.

• Reduces Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Stimulates collagen and elastin to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, especially around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.

• Enhances Skin Tightening: RF energy tightens loose or sagging skin, making it an effective treatment for skin laxity.

• Promotes Skin Tone Evenness: Helps reduce pigmentation irregularities such as sun spots, age spots, and melasma.

• Acne Scar Reduction: Particularly effective for reducing the appearance of stubborn acne scars and textural irregularities left by acne.

• Minimally Invasive: No major incisions or downtime, compared to more invasive surgical treatments.

• Non-Surgical: Offers skin tightening and lifting effects without the need for surgery or botox injections.

Studies & Clinical Evidence Supporting RF Microneedling:

1. Study on RF Microneedling and Skin Rejuvenation (2015, Dermatologic Surgery)

   • A clinical study demonstrated the effectiveness of RF Microneedling in improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles after a series of treatments. The patients showed significant improvements in skin elasticity and collagen production.
     Read the study here

2. RF Microneedling for Acne Scars (2020, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology)

   • This study assessed the impact of RF Microneedling on patients with acne scars. After a few treatments, patients reported a significant reduction in scar depth and overall improvement in skin appearance.
     View the study here

3. Effectiveness of RF Microneedling in Skin Tightening (2017, Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology)

   • Research on RF Microneedling shows that the technology effectively tightens sagging skin, particularly in areas like the jawline and neck, leading to significant improvements in skin firmness and elasticity.
     Read more about the findings here

What to Expect During the RF Microneedling Procedure

• Duration: The entire procedure typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.

• Numbing Effect: The numbing cream ensures minimal discomfort, although you may feel warmth or mild pressure as the RF energy is delivered to your skin.

• Post-Treatment Sensations: Post-treatment, your skin may feel slightly warm and appear red, similar to a mild sunburn. These sensations typically subside within a few hours.

RF Microneedling Aftercare Guide

RF Microneedling is a minimally invasive, effective treatment for a variety of skin concerns. While the procedure itself is quick, aftercare plays a vital role in ensuring that you achieve the best possible results while maintaining the health and integrity of your skin. The following guide will walk you through everything you need to know about taking care of your skin after your RF Microneedling session.

Immediate Aftercare (First 24–48 Hours)

The first 24–48 hours after your RF Microneedling treatment are crucial for healing. Here’s how to care for your skin during this time:

1. Stay Calm, Hydrate, and Rest:

   • Expect redness: Immediately after the treatment, your skin may appear red and feel slightly sunburned. This is completely normal and typically lasts 2–4 hours, although redness can persist for 1–2 days depending on the intensity of the treatment and your skin type.

   • Hydration is key! Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your skin hydrated and support the healing process.

2. Avoid Touching Your Skin:

   • Do not touch, pick, or rub the treated area. This minimizes the risk of introducing bacteria or causing irritation to the freshly treated skin.

   • Your skin is more sensitive post-treatment, so avoid putting your hands on your face unless absolutely necessary. If you must, wash your hands thoroughly first.

3. Cooling Compress:

   • If your skin feels warm or slightly irritated, you can use a cold compress to gently soothe the area. Be sure the compress is clean and avoid pressing too hard on the skin.

   • Tip: Avoid ice or extremely cold compresses, as they may cause the skin to become too cold, which could interfere with the healing process.

4. Use a Gentle Cleanser:

   • You can gently cleanse your skin 24 hours post-treatment with a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Avoid any foaming or exfoliating cleansers that could further irritate the skin.

   • Pat your skin dry with a soft towel—do not rub.

5. Avoid Makeup for 24 Hours:

   • For the first 24 hours, avoid applying any makeup, as your pores are open from the microneedling process, and makeup may cause irritation or introduce bacteria.

   • If you must wear makeup after the first day, ensure it is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and applied with clean hands or brushes.

6. Avoid Sun Exposure:

   • Sun protection is essential: Your skin is more sensitive to UV rays immediately after the treatment. Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 48 hours. If you must go outside, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

   • Tip: We recommend using a mineral-based sunscreen to avoid any irritation, as chemical sunscreens may be too harsh for your skin immediately post-treatment.

Ongoing Aftercare (Day 2 to Week 1)

1. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize:

   • The microneedling process creates tiny channels in your skin, and it’s crucial to keep your skin hydrated to support the healing process. Use a fragrance-free, gentle moisturizer to maintain hydration.

   • Hydrating serums containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help boost moisture levels and provide your skin with nourishment.

   • Avoid heavy, oily moisturizers that may clog pores, and choose lightweight, non-comedogenic options.

2. Avoid Exfoliation or Harsh Products:

   • Do not exfoliate or use products with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or retinol for at least one week after treatment. These ingredients can irritate the skin and interfere with the healing process.

   • Stay away from harsh scrubs or physical exfoliants, as they can damage the newly-formed skin.

3. Continue Using Sunscreen:

   • Your skin is still healing, so make sure to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors. This will help prevent hyperpigmentation (dark spots) that can result from sun exposure during the healing period.

   • Choose a sunscreen that’s gentle on sensitive skin—physical sunscreens are ideal as they tend to be less irritating than chemical ones.

4. Avoid Hot Showers or Saunas:

   • For at least the first 48 hours, avoid hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, or anything that will make you sweat excessively.

   • Hot temperatures can increase inflammation and cause irritation to your sensitive, post-treatment skin.

5. Avoid Strenuous Exercise:

   • For 72 hours, try to avoid any strenuous physical activities like running, gym workouts, or activities that cause you to sweat heavily.

   • Excess sweat can clog pores and make your skin more prone to infection or irritation.

Long-Term Aftercare (Week 1 and Beyond)

1. Maintain Consistent Hydration:

   • Continue to hydrate your skin throughout the healing process. Use a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer to keep the skin’s moisture balance in check. If your skin feels tight, opt for an extra layer of hydrating serum or moisturizer.

2. Return to Normal Skincare Slowly:

   • After 7–10 days, you can gradually reintroduce your normal skincare routine, but start slowly. Begin with your regular gentle cleanser and lightweight moisturizer.

   • Reintroduce active ingredients like retinol, AHAs, and BHAs gradually, preferably after 10–14 days, once your skin has fully healed and is no longer sensitive.

3. Avoid Picking or Scratching:

   • As your skin heals, it may start to shed or flake, but do not pick at your skin or any scabs that may form. Picking can result in scarring, irritation, or infection.

   • Let your skin naturally exfoliate and heal at its own pace.

Additional Aftercare Tips

• Stay Patient: The full effects of RF Microneedling can take time to show, and collagen stimulation happens gradually. Be patient, and don’t expect dramatic changes overnight. Optimal results will be visible in 4 to 6 weeks as collagen and elastin production peaks.

• Follow Up: If you have any concerns about redness, irritation, or side effects that persist longer than expected, reach out to your provider immediately. They can assess the healing process and offer guidance.

• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can hinder the healing process by reducing blood flow and oxygen to the skin. For best results, try to avoid these during the healing period.

When to Seek Medical Attention

In most cases, the aftercare for RF Microneedling is simple and easy to follow. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, seek professional care immediately:

• Persistent swelling or severe redness that does not subside after 2–3 days.

• Excessive pain or discomfort that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain relievers.

• Signs of infection: If the skin develops pus, increasing redness, or tenderness, or if you feel any feverish symptoms.

• Severe peeling or scarring.