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ZAZURASkin & Laser Clinic

Skin treatments

RF Microneedling in Durham

RF microneedling combines controlled micro-injury from fine needles with radiofrequency energy delivered beneath the skin's surface. It is often chosen for texture, scarring and laxity where topical treatments alone are unlikely to be enough.

What is rf microneedling?

Fine insulated needles create controlled channels in the skin. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered at a set depth, producing localised heat in the dermis.

The combination of the mechanical channels and the thermal energy prompts the skin's natural repair response, which involves the production of new collagen and elastin over the following weeks and months.

Because depth and energy can be adjusted, treatment can be tailored to different areas and concerns within the same appointment.

What can it help with?

  • Acne scarring and uneven texture
  • Enlarged-looking pores
  • Fine lines
  • Mild skin laxity
  • Overall skin quality and firmness

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Treatment areas

  • Full face
  • Face and neck
  • Neck and décolletage
  • Targeted areas such as cheeks

What happens during treatment?

  1. 01Skin assessment and confirmation of your plan.
  2. 02Thorough cleansing of the treatment area.
  3. 03Topical numbing is applied and left to take effect.
  4. 04The handpiece is passed over the area in sections, with depth and energy adjusted by zone.
  5. 05Soothing post-treatment products are applied and aftercare is explained.

Consultation

A consultation is required. We review your skin, scarring history, medication, previous treatments and healing tendencies before agreeing depths, energy and the number of sessions.

What does it feel like?

With numbing applied, most people describe pressure with a warm, prickling sensation, stronger over bone such as the forehead and jawline. It is tolerable for most, but it is not a relaxing facial.

Treatment time

Approximately 60 to 90 minutes including numbing time.

Recommended course

Commonly planned as a short course spaced several weeks apart, with the number of sessions confirmed at consultation based on the concern being treated.

Downtime

Expect redness and warmth similar to sunburn for one to three days, sometimes with mild swelling, a grid-like texture or dryness for a few days afterwards.

Results

Immediate changes are mostly swelling-related. Collagen remodelling is gradual, and skin quality typically continues to change over the weeks and months following a course. Outcomes vary and scarring is improved rather than erased.

Individual results vary. No outcome can be guaranteed, and expectations are discussed honestly at consultation.

Who may not be suitable?

  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Active infection, broken skin or inflammation in the treatment area
  • Certain medications, including some that increase light sensitivity
  • A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
  • Some medical conditions or recent procedures affecting the treatment area
  • Active acne or cold sores in the treatment area
  • Certain implanted electronic devices — this must be declared at consultation
  • Recent isotretinoin use, depending on timing

This list is general guidance only. Individual suitability is always determined at consultation, where we review your medical history, medication and skin in person.

Before your appointment

  • Stop retinoids, acids and exfoliating actives for the period advised.
  • Avoid sun exposure and sunbeds beforehand.
  • Arrive with clean skin and no make-up if possible.
  • Tell us if you are prone to cold sores.

Aftercare

  • Keep the skin clean and use only the products advised for the first few days.
  • No make-up for the period advised after treatment.
  • Avoid heat, saunas, steam and strenuous exercise for the first 48 hours.
  • Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential while the skin recovers.
  • Do not pick or exfoliate flaking skin.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between RF microneedling and microneedling?

Traditional microneedling relies on the micro-channels alone. RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy at a controlled depth, which introduces a thermal element and is often chosen where firmness and deeper textural change are priorities.

Is RF microneedling good for acne scars?

It is one of the treatments commonly considered for textural acne scarring. Suitability depends on the type of scarring you have, which is assessed at consultation.

How long is the downtime?

Most people have visible redness for one to three days, with some dryness or texture for a few days after. Plan treatment with this in mind around events.

Does it hurt?

Topical numbing is used. Most people describe warmth and prickling pressure rather than sharp pain, with bony areas feeling more intense.

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation and we can discuss your concerns, suitability and the treatment options that genuinely make sense for your skin.

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