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 doctors for a personalised treatment plan based on your skin condition.
About the treatment
RF microneedling, also called radiofrequency microneedling, is a minimally invasive skin treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy.
The needle depth can be adjusted for each concern. Shallower settings focus on the upper dermis for surface texture and fine lines, mid-depth settings reach the reticular dermis for enlarged pores and shallow scars, and deeper settings target the lower dermis for rolling and boxcar acne scars. Use the diagram to see how each setting reaches a different layer of skin.
Mid-depth settings reach the reticular dermis, used for enlarged pores and shallow scars.
How it works
RF microneedling works by combining two actions in one treatment. Fine needles create tiny, controlled channels in the skin, and radiofrequency energy released at the needle tips heats the dermis beneath. This controlled injury prompts the skin’s natural wound-healing response, which produces new collagen and elastin over the following months. Because most of the energy is delivered below the surface, the outer layer is largely spared, so recovery is usually shorter than with treatments that resurface the whole skin.
1
Fine needles enter the skin to a set depth, creating tiny, controlled channels through the surface. The depth is chosen for your concern, from shallower settings for texture to deeper settings for acne scars, and a numbing cream is applied beforehand for comfort.
2
Energy is released at the needle tips, gently heating the dermis where collagen sits, while most of the surface is spared. This targeted heat can cause existing collagen fibres to contract and signals the skin to begin its repair process.
3
Over the following months, the healing response supports new collagen and elastin, which may help skin look smoother and firmer. Because this remodelling takes time, results build gradually across a course of sessions.
Skin concerns
RF microneedling is commonly used for concerns related to skin texture and early signs of ageing. We will assess whether it suits your skin during consultation.
Rolling, boxcar and shallow atrophic scars left after breakouts. Needle depth and energy are adjusted to the scar type, as explained in the acne scar section below.
Pores that look more visible as the surrounding skin loses firmness or oil builds up. RF microneedling may help firm the skin around each pore, as explained in the pores section below.
Early wrinkles and fine lines on the face, often around the eyes and forehead. New collagen formed after treatment may help soften their appearance over time.
Mild loss of firmness and skin elasticity, often along the cheeks and jawline. The heat delivered into the dermis may help firm the skin gradually, while more noticeable sagging may suit other treatments.
Textural changes left by stretch marks on the body. RF microneedling may help improve their texture and make them look less noticeable over a course of sessions.
Dull, rough or uneven-looking skin. The micro-channels prompt the skin to renew itself, which may help the surface look smoother and more even.
Acne scars
Acne scars form when inflammation from breakouts damages collagen in the deeper skin. As the skin heals, it can leave depressions of different shapes and depths, and most people have a mix of types. Rolling scars are broad and shallow, boxcar scars have defined edges, and icepick scars are narrow but deep. Because each type sits at a different depth, our doctors plan needle depth and energy around the scars you have, and may combine RF microneedling with other treatments such as laser skin resurfacing or a PDLLA skin booster where suitable.
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 doctors may pair RF microneedling with other options such as laser resurfacing or chemical peels.
Pores and texture
RF microneedling helps with texture and enlarged pores by working on three causes at once. Radiofrequency heat in the dermis stimulates new collagen, which may help firm the skin around each pore so the opening looks smaller. The same heat may also help calm overactive oil glands, reducing the congestion that stretches pores. At the surface, the micro-channels prompt the skin to renew itself, gradually smoothing roughness and fine scarring. The cards below explain each cause and how the treatment may help.
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.
Our doctors will recommend settings based on your pore size, skin type and oiliness.
Treatment options
If you are looking into microneedling in Singapore, it helps to know how RF microneedling sits alongside 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. We 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 changes build gradually across a course of sessions rather than appearing straight away. We review your progress along the way and adjust settings where needed.
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, we will assess your skin and advise on what you can expect.
Estimated figures for a course. We 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
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 doctors 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. We 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 doctors 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 us 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 doctors.
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.
