Face · Minimally invasive
RF microneedling combines fine microneedles with radiofrequency energy to work on skin texture from beneath the surface. At TruGlow Medical Aesthetics, it is performed by our Medical Team to help address acne scars, enlarged pores, fine lines and uneven skin texture.
Treatment time
~30–60 min
Recovery
1–3 days
Treatment and recovery times are estimates only. Please consult our Medical Team for a personalised treatment plan based on your skin condition.
Mid-depth settings reach the reticular dermis, used for enlarged pores and shallow scars.
About the treatment
RF microneedling, also called radiofrequency microneedling, is a minimally invasive skin treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy. Ultra-fine needles create controlled micro-channels while radiofrequency energy is delivered through the needle tips into the deeper layers, triggering the skin’s natural healing response.
1
Fine needles enter the skin to a set depth, creating tiny, controlled channels through the surface.
2
Energy is released at the needle tips, gently heating the dermis where collagen sits, while most of the surface is spared.
3
Over the following months, the healing response supports new collagen and elastin, which may help skin look smoother and firmer.
Skin concerns
RF microneedling is commonly used for concerns related to skin texture and early signs of ageing. Our Medical Team will assess whether it suits your skin during consultation.
Rolling, boxcar and shallow atrophic scars.
Pores that look more visible as surrounding skin loses firmness.
Early wrinkles and fine lines on the face.
Mild loss of firmness and skin elasticity.
Textural changes left by stretch marks.
Dull, rough or uneven-looking skin.
Acne scars
Acne scars form when inflammation damages collagen in the deeper skin, leaving uneven depressions. Needle depth and energy are planned around the type of scar.
Broad, soft edges
Wide, shallow depressions that give skin a wave-like surface.
Approach: mid to deeper energy may help loosen fibrous bands and support collagen renewal beneath the scar.
Defined edges
Depressions with sharper, steeper edges and a flatter base.
Approach: controlled heating may help soften scar edges and encourage more even remodelling.
Narrow, deep
Small, deep openings that extend further into the skin.
Approach: often respond better to combined treatments. Our Medical Team may pair RF microneedling with other options.
Pores and texture
Pores can look larger and skin can feel uneven for more than one reason. RF microneedling works on several of these at once, which is why it is often considered when enlarged pores and texture are the main concern.
Structure
As the collagen supporting each pore weakens with age and sun exposure, pore openings can stretch and look more visible.
How RF microneedling may help: heat delivered into the dermis supports new collagen, which may help firm the skin around pores so they appear smaller.
Oil glands
Overactive oil glands and trapped sebum can widen pore openings, most often on the nose, cheeks and forehead.
How RF microneedling may help: controlled heat around the oil glands may help reduce oiliness over a course of sessions, which can make pores look less prominent.
Surface
Slow skin renewal, fine scarring and sun damage can leave skin feeling rough and looking dull.
How RF microneedling may help: the micro-channels trigger the skin’s renewal process, and shallower settings may help refine the surface over time.
Improvements develop gradually as collagen remodels. Our Medical Team will recommend settings based on your pore size, skin type and oiliness.
Compare
If you are looking into microneedling in Singapore, it helps to know how RF microneedling compares with other treatments at TruGlow that target texture, scarring and firmness.
| Treatment | How it works | Needles | Commonly used for | Typical recovery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RF microneedling This treatment | Microneedles deliver radiofrequency heat into the deeper skin | Yes | Acne scars, enlarged pores, texture, fine lines | Redness and mild swelling for about 1 to 3 days |
| Oligio RF | Monopolar radiofrequency heats deeper tissue through the skin surface | No | Skin laxity, sagging, fine lines | No to minimal downtime |
| Laser skin resurfacing | Fractional CO2 laser energy resurfaces the skin | No | Acne scars, texture, fine lines | Varies with treatment depth |
Oligio is typically chosen for tightening without needles. RF microneedling is typically chosen when texture, pores or acne scarring are the main concern. Our Medical Team will recommend the approach that suits your skin.
Suitability
Please share your full medical history during consultation so our Medical Team can assess suitability.
Your visit
From assessment to aftercare, each step is planned around your skin and treatment goals.
Step 1
Our Medical Team reviews your medical history, examines your skin and assesses scar type and depth to plan settings.
Step 2
The skin is cleansed and a topical numbing cream is applied to support comfort.
Step 3
The handpiece moves across the area in a planned pattern, with depth and energy adjusted for each zone.
Step 4
Expect redness and warmth, similar to mild sunburn. You will receive guidance on cleansing, moisturising and sun protection.
Timeline
Collagen remodelling takes time, so improvements usually build gradually over a course of sessions.
Immediately after
Day 0 to 1
Redness, warmth and mild swelling are common. Fine pinpoint marks may appear.
Early healing
Days 2 to 7
Redness settles. Skin may feel slightly dry or rough as it renews.
Progressive change
Weeks 4 to 12
As new collagen forms, texture may look smoother and pores more refined.
Continued results
Months 3 to 6
Improvements continue to develop across the treatment course.
Results vary between individuals and depend on factors including baseline skin condition, scar type and post-treatment care. During your consultation, our Medical Team will assess your skin and advise on what you can expect.
Estimated figures for a course. Our Medical Team will tailor your plan at consultation.
Treatment time
About 30 to 60 min
Recommended course
Varies according to individual condition
Session interval
~4–6 weeks apart, or as advised by our Medical Team
Recovery
1 to 3 days of redness
Comfort
Topical numbing cream
Results
Build over 3 to 6 months
FAQs
Not sure whether RF microneedling or another treatment suits your skin? Our Medical Team can advise at consultation.
A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment to support comfort. Most individuals describe the sensation as prickling and warm. Comfort levels vary, and settings can be adjusted during the session.
Most individuals experience redness and mild swelling for about 1 to 3 days. Some may notice fine pinpoint marks or slight dryness as the skin heals. Many people return to work the next day.
The number of sessions required varies depending on your individual skin condition, concerns and treatment goals. Our Medical Team will assess your skin during consultation and recommend a suitable treatment plan based on your needs.
Some individuals notice smoother, brighter-looking skin within a few weeks. Changes in acne scars and pores usually develop gradually over 3 to 6 months as collagen remodels.
Yes, RF microneedling can generally be suitable for Asian and darker skin tones. Because the radiofrequency energy is delivered directly into the skin through microneedles, the RF energy bypasses the surface pigment and concentrates heat in the deeper dermis.
However, individual skin sensitivity and the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation can vary. Our Medical Team will assess your skin type and concerns and adjust the treatment settings to recommend a suitable treatment plan for your skin.
Both use radiofrequency energy. Oligio delivers it through the skin surface without needles and is mainly used for tightening and lifting. RF microneedling delivers energy through microneedles and is mainly used for texture, pores and acne scars.
Yes, where suitable. Our Medical Team may recommend combining it with treatments such as skin boosters or chemical peels as part of a treatment plan.
Before treatment, avoid sun tanning and let our Medical Team know about any medications or active skincare such as retinoids. For a few days afterwards, avoid makeup until advised, saunas, strenuous exercise, exfoliating products and prolonged sun exposure. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
Yes. RF microneedling is suitable for both men and women with concerns such as acne scars, enlarged pores and uneven skin texture.
The cost of RF microneedling depends on the treatment area, skin concern and number of sessions recommended. For an accurate estimate, schedule a consultation with our Medical Team.
Our medical team
Get to know the doctors at TruGlow Medical Aesthetics. Our team values authentic beauty and takes a personalised approach, understanding your unique needs and goals.
Dr. Stella Tay
Dr. Stella Tay is a senior aesthetic physician known for her precision, clinical expertise, and commitment to natural- looking results. With a strong background in both general and aesthetic medicine, she brings a balanced, safety- focused approach to every treatment.
She holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Malaya and a Postgraduate Diploma in Family Medicine from the National University of Singapore. Her early clinical work in emergency medicine, dermatology, and minor surgical procedures provides a strong foundation for delivering safe and effective aesthetic treatments.
Dr. Stella specializes in non-surgical facial contouring and rejuvenation, including advanced injectable techniques and skin-tightening procedures. Her client-focused approach and attention to detail have earned the trust of working professionals, public figures, and individuals who value subtle yet impactful aesthetic improvements.
She is certified by the Aesthetic Dermatology Educational Group (ADEG) and the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM). Dr. Stella actively participates in international training and advanced courses to stay current with the latest aesthetic innovations.
At the clinic, Dr. Stella is known not only for her clinical skill but also for taking the time to understand each client’s goals, designing treatment plans that are both medically sound and aesthetically refined.
Dr. Stella Tay is a senior aesthetic physician known for her precision, clinical expertise, and commitment to natural- looking results. With a strong background in both general and aesthetic medicine, she brings a balanced, safety- focused approach to every treatment.
She holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Malaya and a Postgraduate Diploma in Family Medicine from the National University of Singapore. Her early clinical work in emergency medicine, dermatology, and minor surgical procedures provides a strong foundation for delivering safe and effective aesthetic treatments.
Dr. Stella specializes in non-surgical facial contouring and rejuvenation, including advanced injectable techniques and skin-tightening procedures. Her client-focused approach and attention to detail have earned the trust of working professionals, public figures, and individuals who value subtle yet impactful aesthetic improvements.
She is certified by the Aesthetic Dermatology Educational Group (ADEG) and the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM). Dr. Stella actively participates in international training and advanced courses to stay current with the latest aesthetic innovations.
At the clinic, Dr. Stella is known not only for her clinical skill but also for taking the time to understand each client’s goals, designing treatment plans that are both medically sound and aesthetically refined.
