Helping skin age better: How non-invasive RF treatment can boost collagen and improve sagging

Maintaining healthy skin as it ages, rather than waiting for changes in appearance, is a growing trend in the field of aesthetics. Dr Rachel Ho, founder of The Skin Longevity Clinic, describes this approach as "skin longevity." The goal of this methodology is to optimise the biological health and functional lifespan of the skin by building cellular resilience, which helps skin age slowly and healthily.

Collagen and elastin loss due to ageing can lead to a reduction in skin firmness and elasticity. Other changes include alterations in facial fat pads, ligaments, and underlying bones, which can contribute to jowls, less defined jawlines, and deeper folds around the mouth. To address these concerns, daily sun protection, evidence-based skincare such as retinoids and vitamin C, and healthy lifestyle habits like balanced nutrition, restorative sleep, and smoking cessation, form the foundation of skin longevity.

One non-invasive radiofrequency (RF) treatment option available at The Skin Longevity Clinic is XERF. This technology uses electromagnetic energy to heat the dermis, causing collagen fibres to contract and stimulating new collagen production over the following months. XERF uses two frequencies - 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz - targeting different depths. The higher frequency stimulates superficial tightening, while the lower frequency penetrates deeper to help with lifting and tightening loose and saggy skin.

The treatment can be tailored according to the patient and the area being treated. Factors like the patient's comfort level, degree of laxity, tissue thickness, and patient's specific concerns influence the settings. After treatment, patients may experience mild heat and flushing, but they can resume their regular skincare, makeup, work, and daily activities immediately. While XERF cannot replicate the surgical removal of excess skin, it can provide a noticeable improvement in firmness and definition over time.

Dr Ho highlights the importance of realistic expectations and understanding the patient's goals. For those seeking a more refreshed appearance, treatment can focus on improving firmness and contours while preserving facial features and natural expressions. Patients should inquire about whether a particular technology suits them and learn about the expected outcomes, risks, side effects, downtime, number of sessions, and expected duration of results.

Ultimately, the longer-term view of skin care aims to understand what the skin needs at different stages and make informed decisions about how to care for it.