Skin aging is accompanied by a progressive decrease in collagen and elastin production. This natural evolution leads to loss of firmness, sagging of the facial oval, appearance of wrinkles, and alteration of skin texture.

Radiofrequency (RF) constitutes a non-invasive therapeutic option aimed at stimulating neocollagenesis without resorting to surgery. Its efficacy and safety profile are documented by numerous clinical studies, which explains its increasing use in aesthetic medicine.

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What is cutaneous radiofrequency and how does it act on the skin?

Radiofrequency is a medical technology based on the emission of electromagnetic waves, generally between 0.3 and 10 MHz. These waves generate a controlled thermal elevation in skin tissues through the Joule effect, when electrical energy encounters the natural resistance of biological tissues.

Unlike laser technologies, which target specific chromophores such as melanin or hemoglobin, radiofrequency acts independently of skin pigmentation. It can thus be used safely on all phototypes, including dark skin.

During treatment, dermal temperature is generally maintained between 38 and 42°C. This controlled thermal elevation triggers two complementary biological mechanisms: an immediate contraction of existing collagen fibers and progressive stimulation of fibroblasts, responsible for synthesizing new collagen and elastin.

How radiofrequency works: action on collagen and neocollagenesis

The action of radiofrequency on the dermis is based on biological phenomena well described in scientific literature.

Thermal elevation causes partial and reversible denaturation of existing collagen fibers, leading to immediate contraction of these fibers. This effect explains the slight tightening sometimes observed from the first sessions.

Simultaneously, heat induces a controlled inflammatory reaction at the dermal level. This biological response stimulates fibroblast activity, increasing production of type I and III collagen as well as elastin synthesis.

Histological analyses and skin biopsies have shown a measurable increase in dermal collagen, beginning shortly after treatment and continuing for several months, up to approximately six months after the last session.

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Types of radiofrequency for skin: monopolar, bipolar and multipolar

Monopolar radiofrequency

Monopolar radiofrequency uses an active electrode applied to the treated area and a return electrode placed at a distance on the body. The current passes through tissues between these two points, allowing deep penetration reaching the reticular dermis and hypodermis.

This technology is primarily used for body treatments or skin laxity requiring deep action.

Bipolar radiofrequency

Bipolar radiofrequency concentrates current between two closely positioned electrodes on the treated area. Penetration depth corresponds approximately to half the distance between electrodes.

It allows precise control of the thermal zone and is particularly adapted to delicate regions, such as the eye contour.

Multipolar radiofrequency

Multipolar radiofrequency combines several electrodes to simultaneously treat different dermal depths. Clinical studies show it offers a good balance between efficacy, tolerance and comfort, with a favorable side effect profile.

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Clinical indications of radiofrequency for skin tightening

Face and neck

Radiofrequency is used to treat mild to moderate skin laxity of the face and neck, particularly:

• Sagging of facial oval and jowls
• Periorbital and eyelid laxity
• Facial wrinkles (frown lines, crow's feet, nasolabial folds)
• Neck skin laxity and loss of cervico-mental definition

Clinical studies report skin tightening improvement rates of approximately 70 to 75% three months after treatment, with high patient satisfaction rates.

Body

At the body level, radiofrequency is used to improve skin laxity after pregnancy or weight loss, particularly on the abdomen, arms and inner thighs.

It is also used in cellulite management, by improving microcirculation, lymphatic drainage and remodeling of subcutaneous connective tissue.

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Radiofrequency session: procedure and treatment protocol

Consultation and initial evaluation

Before any treatment, a medical consultation is essential. It allows evaluation of skin quality, degree of laxity, patient expectations and absence of contraindications.

A personalized protocol is established, generally comprising 4 to 6 sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart.

Radiofrequency session

The skin is cleansed then covered with a conductive gel. The applicator is moved methodically over the treated area to ensure homogeneous energy distribution.

Modern devices integrate real-time thermal control, guaranteeing treatment safety.

Session duration varies according to area: approximately 20 to 30 minutes for complete face and 15 minutes for neck.

Tolerance and sensations during treatment

Radiofrequency is generally well tolerated. The perceived sensation corresponds to progressive heat, sometimes more pronounced at bony areas.

Current protocols, based on multiple passes at moderate energy, have significantly reduced discomfort. Clinical studies report that only 5% of patients describe treatment as too painful.

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Results of cutaneous radiofrequency: when to see them and how long do they last

Timeline of improvements

Treatment effects appear progressively:

• Immediate phase: slight tensing effect linked to contraction of existing collagen
• Between 1 and 3 months: progressive improvement of firmness and skin density
• Between 3 and 6 months: optimal results corresponding to peak neocollagenesis

Studies report satisfaction rates between 80 and 90%, with lasting improvement of skin laxity and texture.

Duration of results and maintenance sessions

Results are not permanent, as skin aging continues naturally. Effects are generally observed for 12 months.

Maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months allow prolonging treatment benefits.

Price of radiofrequency in Belgium

In Belgium, the average cost of a radiofrequency session for complete face is approximately €350.

A complete protocol of 4 to 6 sessions represents an investment between €1,400 and €2,100. These treatments are generally not reimbursed, as they are considered aesthetic.

Contraindications of cutaneous radiofrequency

Radiofrequency is contraindicated particularly in case of:

• Pacemaker or electronic implant
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Metallic implants in treated area
• Active skin infection
• Certain autoimmune diseases
• Recent hyaluronic acid or botulinum toxin injections (recommended delay of 2 to 4 weeks)

FAQ about radiofrequency

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