The benefits of radio frequency treatments for skin tightening and skin rejuvenation

Collagen is the most common protein in our bodies, it is what gives our skin firmness but as we age the quality and quantity of that collagen decreases and around the age of 35 our skin laxity starts to decline and this is what leads to sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles. We all have different skin types and skin tone so these changes differ for everyone but most of us are keen to delay the signs of ageing if at all possible and without doing anything too drastic!

As a lifestyle blogger for women approaching and in their 50's I am so fortunate to be invited to try out and review different treatment and share what I find out with you my readers.  As part of my ongoing collaboration with ERA Skin and Laser Clinic in Thame, they have asked me to try out their radio frequency skin tightening procedure over a period of 6 months.

​My first blog post in this little series is to introduce you to radio frequency facials, explain how they help with collagen production and talk a little more about their benefits for maintaining a youthful appearance! I will then be back at the end of my treatment protocol to update you on my results!

This is part of a gifted collaboration.

Radio Frequency Skin Tightening and Skin Rejuvenation at ERA Clinic in Thame

Radio frequency or RF technology uses low energy radiation to heat up the deep layer of your skin called the dermis. It is this heat that stimulates the production of our natural collagen to help make significant improvements to the appearance of our skin. And research has concluded that RF treatments are mostly safe and can really help in treating the signs of ageing. 
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I had my first radio frequency treatment at ERA Skin & Laser Clinic a couple of weeks ago. At my initial consultation, my therapist Paige and I discussed my skin concerns and areas where I would like to see some improvements, like tighter skin and improvements to the skin’s surface and we agreed I am a good candidate for RF skin tightening.

My main areas of concern include deeper lines on my forehead and laughter lines, skin texture and post acne scarring . I have without a doubt seen a huge benefit to my skin since completing my course of HydraFacials at ERA last year and I will explain later how these two treatments can complement each other.

​Paige reported that I tolerated the heat from the RF treatment really well and suggested I would benefit hugely from a course of six radio frequency skin tightening treatments then once the course is finished we can review the tightening and plumping effect on my skin and discuss if I would benefit from a further HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) treatment). Which is all really exciting, and I am looking forward to seeing the best results possible!

How does radio frequency technology work?

Radio frequency skin tightening is a non-invasive procedure using a hand piece connected to a machine that creates radio waves or RF energy. These waves give off heat that prompt your skin to speed up cell turnover, elastin production is increased and more collagen made. Due to the level of frequency these radio waves do not interfere with the neuromuscular structure and can be used safely for medical and aesthetic procedures.

​When radio frequency is conducted through the skin, it penetrates to the subcutaneous layers and the heat effects the dermis with the benefits being skin tightening, skin firming and brightening. It does not damage the top layer of skin. It is particularly good for areas of loose skin such as the neck, jowls, jawline and brow area. The skin can look lifted even after one treatment.

What does a radio frequency treatment feel like?

First Paige cleansed my skin thoroughly then she applies a gel to enable the radio frequency heat energy to transmit fully onto the skin and it also allows the hand piece to move freely and glide across the skin.

The hand piece heats the skin to 40 degrees which is the level required for production of collagen and elastin to be stimulated. Paige was very careful and monitored my tolerance to the heat throughout, she regularly checked the temperature and asked if I am okay with it. Once the temperature is up to 40 degrees, the face is gently massaged with the hand piece for 7 minutes on each side. The radio frequency treatment is very relaxing and it feels a bit like a hot stone massage. At no point did I feel uncomfortable or concerned about it getting too hot.

After my RF treatment I did not experience any redness but if this does happen it will quickly go, Paige applied a cooling serum and SPF to my face and there is no downtime at all.  I was able to leave the clinic and face the public!!

New collagen production is cumulative and improvements slowly develop over about four weeks. Thus having a course of 4-6 treatments spaced four weeks apart are usually recommended to see the desired results.

Are there side effects or contraindications to a radio frequency facial?

Radio frequency is not recommended for those who suffer from rosacea or if you have particularly advanced loose or saggy skin. But always get advice and ERA Clinic are very happy to have an initial consultation to discuss your suitability for radio frequency therapy.

The ERA Lift combines several proven treatments to give you the best in skin rejuvenation

​There are lots of different radio frequency devices, ERA Clinic have two types available, the bipolar and the monopolar (works at a deeper level) and I will be trying out both and explaining more about the differences in my next blog post.

​ERA Clinic offer their signature 'ERA Lift' for bespoke facial rejuvenation.  Treatments take place over a period of 6 months and include a combination of their best proven technologies. 

Hydrafacial Platinum - for skin tone and texture.
Radio frequency - to stimulate collagen and elastin, plus skin tone and texture.
HIFU (High Intensity Focussed Ultrasound) - for skin tightening
Laser Treatment - for pigmentation and thread veins.

The ERA Lift is ideal for anyone aged 45 to 65 with a loss of mid face volume, mild jowling and loss of skin laxity.  it is perfect if you have a special occasion coming up, maybe a significant birthday, a big family wedding or the trip of lifetime!

Below: Having a radio frequency treatment at ERA Skin & Laser Clinic.

I am very excited to be starting this treatment protocol with Paige and Emma at ERA.  I always enjoy my trips to Thame, it is such a pretty market town to visit, and parking is super easy, located just behind the clinic in a quiet end of the town.  I love the old building where ERA is located and I am always made to feel very welcome.  They have a comprehensive range of different treatments to suit everyone and can help with recommending treatment packages, special offers and payment options. 

I will let you know how I get on and what my results are in a few months time!

Love from
Michelle xx
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​Disclaimer: ERA Skin & Laser Clinic are gifting me a course of 6 x Radio Frequency Treatments, my review is a genuine and honest account of my experience.

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​Other blogs I link up with:

Is This Mutton
#WowOnWednesday 

​Mummabstylish
#Chic&Stylish

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