Understanding the Science of Radio Frequency (RF)
Radio Frequency (RF) technology is a staple in modern aesthetics, offering non-invasive solutions for skin tightening, improved texture, and body contouring. It works by delivering controlled heat deep into the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production through a process known as thermal remodeling.
This process encourages fibroblast activity and rebuilds the skin matrix—resulting in firmer, tighter skin with improved tone and elasticity.
April 2025 L+A Report
Tech-Nature: The Evolution of Botanicals in Modern Skincare
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Skin Laxity and Weight Loss: The Hidden Trade-Off
Weight loss is amazing for health—but it often leaves clients with unexpected loose skin, especially around the abdomen, thighs, arms, and jawline. Combine that with aging, sun exposure, and oxidative stress, and you’ve got a recipe for sagging.
Enter: RF technology. It’s designed to restore structure by replenishing collagen and elastin.
Dr. Krystal Briglia, L+A Medical + Wellness Editor
Dr. Krystal Briglia of Triada Integrative Medicine + Wellness is a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in aesthetic dermatology, integrative medicine, and wellness. She has an extensive and diverse background in healthcare, with over a decade of experience working in emergency, critical care, trauma, aesthetics, healthcare administration, and healthcare education. Krystal holds multiple board certifications, including family practice, emergency, and critical care. Her educational background includes two undergraduate degrees, a degree in health sciences, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Delaware. She holds three graduate-level degrees, including a master’s degree in nursing leadership, a master’s degree in business administration, and completed her nurse practitioner education at the University of Massachusetts. In 2016, Krystal completed her clinical doctorate in nursing practice. Dr. Briglia is an entrepreneur and specializes in organizational process improvement. She is a Lean Six Sigma master black belt, a certified Six Sigma champion, and a certified Kaizen facilitator. She also has a passion for education and spent 6 years teaching health profession graduate-level courses. During that time, she held a lead faculty position and helped the university develop a family nurse practitioner program from inception to credentialing and first graduates. Read Full Bio
Types of Radio Frequency Devices
Different RF devices offer different depths, intensities, and outcomes. Here’s a quick breakdown for skincare pros and medspa teams:
1. Monopolar RF
- Penetrates deep into subcutaneous fat layers.
- Great for body contouring (abdomen, thighs).
- Includes skin-cooling tech to prevent surface damage.
2. Bipolar + Multipolar RF
- Bipolar = targeted, shallow heating—ideal for face and neck.
- Multipolar = uniform heat distribution, increasing comfort and consistency.
3. Fractional RF (Microneedling + RF)
- Combines RF with microneedling.
- Targets skin laxity, scars, texture.
- Delivers resurfacing + tightening in one go.
Spotlight: InMode IGNITE™ Advanced RF System
A standout in the next-gen RF lineup, IGNITE™ combines bipolar RF and RF-assisted lipolysis (RFAL) across several game-changing handpieces:
Morpheus8 Burst
- Fractional RF microneedling that reaches up to 8mm depth.
- Great for moderate to severe laxity.
- Delivers multi-level energy bursts for skin remodeling.
Quantum 10 & 25
- Minimally invasive bipolar RF handpieces.
- Quantum 10 = jawline + arms.
- Quantum 25 = abdomen, thighs, buttocks.
- Uses real-time temperature feedback for safety.
BodyTite
- RFAL for large body areas.
- Fuses fat coagulation and skin tightening.
- Ideal post-weight loss.
FaceTite
- Targets jowls, submental fat, lower face.
- Delivers near-surgical results with minimal downtime.
AccuTite
- The tiniest + most precise RFAL tool.
- Best for under-eyes, nasolabial folds, brows.
All IGNITE™ handpieces include the Turbo mode—a high-speed energy burst that amps up results while maintaining skin safety with thermal monitoring and auto-regulated delivery.
How to Maximize RF: The Multimodal Treatment Plan
RF is powerful on its own—but next-level when combined with:
- Microneedling: Boosts texture + enhances active ingredient absorption.
- Surgery: Used pre/post-op to extend results.
- Ultrasound/Cavitation: Melts fat while RF tightens.
- LED Therapy: Reduces inflammation + speeds recovery.
- Topicals: Skin is more receptive to serums post-RF.
Botanical Homecare After RF Treatments
Help clients maintain their glow and results between treatments with plant-based support.
For Elasticity + Firmness
- Sea Buckthorn Oil – Omega-rich and barrier-repairing.
- Pomegranate Seed Oil – Antioxidant-rich and skin-smoothing.
- Green Tea Extract – Anti-oxidative and firming.
- Frankincense Oil – Gently tightens and tones.
- Rosemary Extract – Circulation and collagen booster.
For Soothing + Restoring
- Calendula – Calms post-treatment irritation.
- Aloe Vera – Delivers intense hydration.
- Colloidal Oatmeal – Relieves itchiness and inflammation.
- Blue Tansy Oil – Calming and anti-inflammatory.
For Long-Term Collagen Support
- Licorice Root – Brightens and reduces pigmentation.
- Rosehip Oil – Rich in Vitamin C, great for collagen and cell turnover.
Radio Frequency isn’t just a trend—it’s a proven, powerhouse modality that addresses one of the most frustrating concerns in aesthetics: skin laxity.
With the right RF technology, patient selection, and supportive homecare, practitioners can deliver confidence-boosting results with a truly holistic approach.