Acne most commonly affects adolescents, but also extends into adulthood for many. It can be frustrating to manage, as it can lead to pigmentation changes and pitted scarring.

What causes acne?

Acne forms when hair follicles become clogged, trapping dead skin cells, bacteria and oil underneath the skin. Whiteheads will form when the excess oil mixes with the dead skin cells to form a plug close to the skin’s surface. Blackheads will form if the follicle is open to the skin. The usual bacterial culprit is Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) which can multiply when trapped within the pores, leading to inflammation, redness, and infection. Sometimes pus will form deep underneath the skin, causing pitted scars.

How can Genius RF Microneedling help with Active acne and Acne scarring?

Genius RF combines Radiofrequency heat with microneedling to reduce pore size, reduce oil production and stimulate collagen production. The reduced oil production and pore size leads to fewer acne outbreaks, while the improved collagen and elastin will help tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars.

What is the recovery like after Genius RF microneedling treatment?

Because the needles with Genius RF are ultra-fine, there is minimal injury to the skin surface. You can expect some redness and minor swelling following the treatment. The swelling resolves quickly (within 1-3 days). The redness peaks during the first 3-5 days and typically fades over the coarse of 1-3 weeks. You want to avoid soaking your treated skin under water (i.e. avoid saunas, swimming) for 2 weeks. You will also want to avoid strenuous workouts (sweating). But otherwise, you can return to normal activity within 1-2 days.

How can adding LaseMD or co2 laser help with Acne scars?

While Genius RF works underneath the skin to boost collagen, lasers work on the surface of the skin to smooth skin texture and remove pigment. Two of our favorite lasers to combine with Genius RF microneedling for acne scars include LaseMD Ultra and Ecotone eCO2 Laser.

Acne scar subcision may be needed for deeper acne scars

Deeper acne scars have thick fibrous bands of scar tissue below the skin, as well as loss of collagen at the skin surface. These scars respond better to subcision (using a needle to cut the scar bands beneath the skin).

What skincare products should I use after RF microneedling?

Protection against sun damage is important to prevent pigmentation (darkening of skin). 100% mineral sunscreen is recommended. For the first 3 days, it’s a good idea to avoid creams that could potentially clog pores and lead to acne outbreaks. Gentle cleansers are also recommended. Avoid retinol/tretinoin, glycolic or exfoliating cleansers for two weeks. At Rejuve Medspa, we have a variety of advanced skincare products that help to speed recovery, prevent complications, as well as enhance results.

Before and After photos of Genius RF for acne scars:

What is the difference between RF microneedling and regular microneedling?

Regular microneedling pens have no added radiofrequency. The needles on a typical microneedling pen are shorter and stiffer, potentially causing more surface injury to the skin depending on how aggressive the treatment is. Although great results can be achieved with regular microneedling, more sessions will be required for a similar result compared with one session of RF microneedling.

How does Genius RF microneedling compare with other RF devices such as Morpheus 8 or Pixel 8?

The needles with Morpheus 8 and Pixel 8 are thicker and stiffer, causing more surface injury (more risk for bleeding, bruising, pain, and prolonged healing times), as well as higher risk for hyper pigmentation (darkening of skin). Genius RF has 49 gold-plated ultra fine needles compared with 28 needles on Morpheus 8, so Genius RF can provide more aggressive energy delivery. Despite being more aggressive, Genius RF has less associated downtime. There is more precision and control possible with Genius RF due to the intelligent feedback