Radiofrequency Microneedling
A device-based treatment that may be considered for acne scarring, skin texture and some skin laxity after assessment at a St Kilda consultation. Evidence varies by concern.
- Registered medical practitioner
- Standardised 3D imaging
- A written, personalised plan
What is radiofrequency microneedling?
Radiofrequency microneedling is a device-based treatment that combines fine needles with radiofrequency energy. The needles create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, and the energy delivers heat into the deeper layers.
This process is designed to prompt the skin's own repair response, which is intended to support collagen remodelling over time.
Microneedling may be performed with or without radiofrequency. Dr Marie-Claire will explain which approach may suit you, and it can be combined with other treatments, which are discussed at consultation.
Individual results vary. Whether this treatment is appropriate for you is decided only after Dr Marie-Claire has assessed your skin, your medical history and your goals.
What is it used for?
How does it work?
The device uses very fine needles that pass into the skin to a chosen depth. Where radiofrequency is used, energy is released at the needle tip, warming the deeper skin in a controlled way.
The skin responds to this controlled injury by beginning a repair process. Over the following weeks and months, this may help support firmer-feeling and smoother-looking skin.
Dr Marie-Claire chooses the depth, the energy setting and the number of passes for your skin. A course of treatments is often considered, and your plan is written down after consultation.
- Needle depth is chosen to suit the area and the concern being addressed.
- Radiofrequency energy may be added to warm the deeper layers of the skin.
- A course of treatments spaced over several weeks is commonly considered.
- It can be combined with other treatments, which are discussed at consultation.
Who is it for?
This treatment may be considered by adults who have concerns about acne scarring, skin laxity or skin texture. Dr Marie-Claire will assess whether it is a suitable option for you.
Some people are advised to begin with skin health or another approach first. Treatment is not provided to anyone under 18.
This treatment may need to be deferred, or may not be suitable, in some situations. These include an active acne flare or skin infection in the area, a tendency to keloid or raised scarring, pregnancy, certain medications, and a metal implant or pacemaker near the area where radiofrequency would be used. Dr Marie-Claire will go through these with you at consultation, and the list is not complete.
What to expect
Preparation starts before the treatment day, and Dr Marie-Claire tailors it to your skin at consultation.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning before treatment, and use sun protection daily.
- Start any skincare regimen as directed at your consultation.
- Tell Dr Marie-Claire about any cold sore history, implants, medications or recent skin treatments.
- Arrive with clean skin, without make-up or active skincare products.
Timelines and recovery vary between individuals. Individual results vary.
Your skin is checked and cleansed, and the plan agreed at consultation is confirmed before treatment begins.
- Comfort measures are discussed beforehand, and you may feel pressure, warmth or a prickling sensation.
- Treatment time depends on the area and the approach chosen.
- Your skin is soothed and protected at the end of the visit.
Timelines and recovery vary between individuals. Individual results vary.
Your skin may be red, swollen and sensitive afterwards, with small marks from the needles. Dr Marie-Claire will explain what is expected for your approach.
- Redness and swelling usually settle over a few days, though this varies.
- Use gentle skincare and sun protection exactly as directed.
- Avoid sun exposure and heavy exercise while your skin heals.
- Contact the practice if healing does not progress as described.
Timelines and recovery vary between individuals. Individual results vary.
Frequently asked questions
How much does radiofrequency microneedling cost in Melbourne?
The cost depends on the treatment area, the approach chosen and the number of sessions in your plan. Your costs are set out in a written plan after consultation with Dr Marie-Claire, so you can consider them before deciding on any treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on your skin, your concerns and how your skin responds. A course spaced over several weeks or months is commonly considered, and the skin continues to change after treatment. Dr Marie-Claire will discuss a suggested plan at consultation and review it with you over time. Individual results vary.
What is recovery like, and what are the side effects?
Common effects include redness, swelling, tenderness and small pinpoint marks from the needles, which usually settle over several days. Less common risks include bruising, infection, pigment change and scarring, and these will be discussed with you at consultation. Sun avoidance and protection are important while the skin heals.
What is the difference between microneedling with and without radiofrequency?
Microneedling alone creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin using fine needles. Adding radiofrequency also delivers heat into the deeper layers of the skin through the needles. Dr Marie-Claire will explain which approach may be considered for your skin and your concern, and it can be combined with other treatments, which are discussed at consultation.
Is this treatment right for me?
It depends on your skin, your medical history and what you would like to address. It is one of several approaches Dr Marie-Claire may discuss, alongside skincare, sun protection and other energy-based treatments. A consultation in St Kilda is where suitability, risks and alternatives are discussed before any treatment is planned.
Commonly treated concerns
Acne Scarring
A calm, clear guide to the different types of acne scarring and the approaches a doctor may consider after assessment.
Learn more
Skin Laxity: Neck and Jawline
A clear guide to loss of firmness in the lower face and neck, and the non-surgical approaches a doctor may consider.
Learn more
Skin Texture and Enlarged Pores
How roughness, visible pores, fine textural lines and dullness develop, and the approaches a doctor may discuss with you.
Learn more
Surgical and Trauma Scars
How scars form and mature, why timing matters, and the approaches a doctor may discuss with you.
Learn moreImportant information
All medical and aesthetic procedures carry risk. Suitability, risks, recovery and expected outcomes are discussed in a private consultation with Dr Marie-Claire before any treatment is planned. Consultations are not available to anyone under 18. Individual results vary and no outcome is guaranteed.
Treatment is planned only after a full consultation, and options are discussed after assessment, only where clinically appropriate.
Start with a consultation.
Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin, talk through your options and explain the risks before any treatment is planned.