YOUR TREATMENT GUIDE
RF microneedling
RF microneedling combines needles with radiofrequency energy that heats tissue. It differs from standard microneedling and from CO₂ laser. Suitability depends on the device, depth, energy, treatment area and your anatomy.
General patient education. Your clinician’s written instructions take priority because your device, product, medical history and treatment intensity may differ.
Before your appointment
- Tell us about cold sores, active acne/infection, healing problems, medicines and recent treatments. For RF, disclose implanted electronic devices and metal near the treatment area.
- Avoid tanning and ask when to pause retinoids or exfoliating products. Arrive with clean skin; your clinician decides whether treatment is suitable.
What happens at your visit
Ask which device will be used, why RF is being recommended over alternatives, and what numbing and recovery are planned. Discuss your skin tone, previous procedures, implants and tendency to scar.
Aftercare & recovery
- Use only the gentle cleanser and skincare your clinician recommends while the skin barrier recovers. Avoid makeup for at least the initial 24 hours, or longer if instructed.
- Avoid heat and strenuous exercise for the first day, and avoid swimming, scrubs and irritating products until cleared. Do not pick peeling skin.
- RF can require different recovery instructions from conventional microneedling. Ask when to resume sunscreen, active products and normal activities.
Results & follow-up
Response develops over time and varies. Swelling or redness is not proof of collagen improvement. Ask when the provider will assess healing and results before booking another session.
Your questions, answered
Is RF risk-free because it is minimally invasive?
No. The FDA has reported serious complications with certain uses, including burns, scarring, unwanted fat loss, disfigurement and nerve damage. Some injuries have needed surgery or other medical treatment.
Can it be used for every skin type?
Suitability must be assessed individually. Ask about experience with your skin tone, the proposed area and the device’s intended use. “Suitable for all skin types” does not mean risk-free.
Is it the same as a CO₂ treatment?
No. RF delivers heat through needles; CO₂ is a resurfacing laser. They have different mechanisms and recovery needs. A combined plan requires its own assessment.
How should I care for my skin?
Use the written plan for cleansing and moisturising. Avoid picking, harsh products, sun exposure and friction during healing. Confirm dates for makeup, exercise, swimming and active skincare.
When should I call?
Seek prompt assessment for burns, worsening pain, persistent numbness, weakness, unexpected contour changes or signs of infection. Do not assume these are normal recovery.
How many visits should I buy?
Ask for an initial plan with reassessment rather than an open-ended promise. Results, healing and adverse effects should guide whether another session is appropriate.
Planning your visit
How much will it cost, and is insurance accepted?
Ask for an individualized estimate before treatment, including the proposed course, follow-up and any separate products or prescriptions. Cosmetic services are generally self-pay; medically necessary care depends on your plan and eligibility. Do not assume a consultation is free.
Can I have treatment at the first visit?
An assessment comes first. Same-day treatment depends on suitability, preparation, availability and informed consent. Tell us about upcoming travel or events when arranging your visit.
What if I am pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication?
Tell the clinician before booking a procedure. Elective cosmetic treatment may be deferred. Bring a complete medication and supplement list; never stop prescribed medicines just to prepare for a cosmetic visit without the prescriber’s advice.
Can I see before-and-after results?
Ask whether consented, real patient examples are available for your treatment and skin type. Lighting, angle and timing affect comparisons. Illustrative website images are not proof of a treatment outcome or a promise of your result.
Who do I contact afterward?
Call 510-777-1000 during Monday–Friday 9 AM–5 PM or Saturday 9 AM–2 PM Pacific. If we are assisting another patient, leave your name and callback number. For urgent symptoms after hours, seek prompt medical care instead of waiting for a message response. Call 911 for an emergency.
When to get help
Contact the clinic for blisters, burns, persistent numbness, worsening pain, pus or spreading redness.
For severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, get medical care promptly. Call 911 for breathing difficulty, stroke symptoms or another emergency. The website form is not monitored for urgent medical concerns.
Still have a question?
Our team can help you arrange a visit and clarify your treatment instructions. Hablamos español.
Monday–Friday 9 AM–5 PM · Saturday 9 AM–2 PM · Pacific Time
Patient education sources
Information checked October 28, 2026. These references provide general education, not Osita-specific treatment protocols.