MNRF Treatment – Cost, Before & After Results, Benefits

Medically reviewed by Dr. Debatri Datta , MBBS, MD in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy

July 20, 2024 Written by Dr. Debatri Datta

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Micro-needling radiofrequency (MNRF) is a new cutting-edge skin rejuvenation technology designed to treat a multitude of skin concerns like fine lines, uneven skin texture, acne scars and skin laxity. This can improve your skin’s appearance significantly compared to other technologies while still being minimally invasive. In this article, we will explore the scientific principle behind MNRF, its major benefits, treatment costs and how you can incorporate it into your skincare practices.

What Is MNRF (Microneedling Radiofrequency)?

Micro-needling radiofrequency (MNRF) is a minimally invasive technique that combines the traditional micro-needling procedure effectively with radiofrequency energy to rejuvenate the appearance of your skin. The RF pulse carried through a fractional technique deep into the dermis induces skin tightening and reduces acne scars by stimulating the synthesis of both collagen and elastin. The entire procedure causes minimal damage to the upper layers of skin and involves marginal downtime.

MNRF is a new non-surgical skin rejuvenation technique that combines the mechanical benefits of micro-needling with the thermal benefits of radiofrequency. It can improve skin texture and reduce scars by stimulating collagen and elastin production. It is becoming popular nowadays due to its minimally invasive nature, no extensive downtime and visible results within a few sessions.

How Does MNRF Treatment Work?

Micro-needling involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers the healing response of the skin leading to stimulation of collagen and elastin production. Radiofrequency is a form of electromagnetic energy released from these needles that generates heat inside these micro injuries, and stimulates collagen and elastin fibre production. Together, the two stimuli create a powerful healing response in the skin, which becomes firmer and youthful due to the abundant production of the supporting fibres.

Body Areas Treated With MNRF

The following areas of the body are treatable with MNRF:

Face: MNRF can help minimise open pores and acne scars, and also tighten the skin.
Décolletage: MNRF can target acne scars, open pores, fine lines and mild sagging along with stretch marks in this area.
Abdomen: Dermatologists use MNRF to treat stretch marks and sagging skin in the abdomen area.
Buttocks: Stretch marks and sagging skin are treatable with MNRF.
Thighs: MNRF can reduce cellulite and stretch marks here.

What Are The Conditions That MNRF Can Treat?

MNRF can address multiple concerns that include the following:[1]

Fine Lines And Wrinkles: MNRF stimulates collagen production, which smooths out fine lines and makes skin wrinkle-free.
Acne Scars: Micro-needling and RF energy together can stimulate a powerful healing response to regenerate and remodel scar tissue, mainly atrophic acne
Skin Laxity: RF induces collagen contraction and new collagen formation to tighten the
Enlarged Pores: MNRF can tighten the tissue by producing new collagen and reducing the appearance of open pores.
Hyperpigmentation: MNRF can help reduce sun spots and pigmentation, though it is not a primary treatment for this indication.
Stretch Marks: MNRF stimulates collagen and elastin production to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and improve skin elasticity.
Skin Texture And Dullness: MNRF can also improve skin texture and help skin recover from premature ageing sign like dullness due to sun damage.

Top 5 Benefits Of MNRF Treatment

MNRF is a versatile treatment with multiple benefits listed here:

Enhances Collagen Production:

MNRF stimulates production of collagen and elastin fibres to help maintain a firm, smooth, and youthful skin. It also reduces ageing signs like fine lines and wrinkles.

Offers Skin Tightening Results:

MNRF helps to treat sagging skin and improve skin elasticity, and can be an effective anti-ageing treatment.

Improves Skin Texture:

MNRF can treat enlarged pores and uneven skin texture. The collagen stimulation makes the skin even and reduces pores.

Reduces Acne Scars:

Atrophic acne scars and chickenpox scars are treatable with It stimulates the healing response of the skin and helps achieve visible scar revision results.

Diminishes Stretch Marks:

Stretch marks essentially develop due to improper healing of skin when stretched too fast. New collagen production induced by MNRF can help minimise the appearance of stretch marks.

What Is The MNRF Treatment Procedure?

Here are the three steps you can expect during MNFR treatment:

Before MNRF:

Consultation: You would start with a thorough consultation with a dermatologist discussing your concerns and expected results. He/she will examine your skin to determine suitability for MNRF and to customise the treatment plan as per your skin type and needs.
Preparation: On the day of the procedure, therapists will clean the target area remove any makeup, oils, or impurities. They will apply a topical anaesthetic to the skin and leave it on for 30-60 minutes to prevent discomfort during the service.

During MNRF:

The dermatologist will select the suitable machine parameters based on your skin type and concern. Then, the dermatologist uses the probe to insert microneedles in the skin at controlled depths, creating micro-injuries to stimulate the natural healing response and collagen production. RF energy passes through the microneedles into the deeper layers of the skin and releases heat, which further stimulates collagen production to reduce scars.

After MNRF:

Post-Treatment Care: After the procedure, therapists will apply an anti-inflammatory cream to reduce any redness or swelling. You will receive detailed post-treatment care instructions like medications to apply, gentle skincare products to use, especially keeping the skin moisturised.
Follow-Up: A follow up appointment may be advisable to monitor the healing and side effects if any. Your dermatologist will decide the date for the next session.

You will notice improvements in skin texture, tone, and firmness over next few weeks as collagen production continues to increase.

Watch this informative video on Secret RF Micro-needling:

Who Is The Right Candidate For MNRF Treatment?

MNRF is safe for people of all sexes and skin types. However, an ideal candidate for MNRF would be someone who matches the criteria listed here:

Healthy: The client should not have any significant health conditions, which can interfere with the procedure or its results.
Has Premature Ageing Signs: MNRF is specifically useful for people with ageing changes like fine lines and wrinkles.
Age Above 18: People above 18 can opt for MNRF.

Who Should Avoid MNRF Treatment?

MNRF treatment is not suitable for certain individuals[2]:

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not undergo this procedure.
People having underlying health conditions should not opt for MNRF.
People on chemotherapy should avoid MNRF.
People with a tendency to have keloids should avoid MNRF, as it can lead to new keloid formation.
People with active skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis should avoid MNRF as these can flare up.
People having skin cancer or precancerous lesions should not undergo MNRF.

How Much Does MNRF Treatment Cost In India?

MNRF treatment cost in India ranges from INR 4,500 to INR 20,000 per session. The overall cost of this treatment may vary from person to person based on the type and severity of the condition, the size of the target area, the qualifications of the professional, clinic location and reputation and the number of sessions recommended.

Here is the detailed cost of MNRF treatment cost in India based on different skin concerns:

Skin Concern	Cost Per Session (INR)	Total Treatment Cost (INR)
Fine Lines and Wrinkles	4,500 – 9,500	13,500 – 57,000
Acne Scars	6,500 – 11,500	19,500 – 69,000
Enlarged Pores	4,500 – 7,500	13,500 – 45,000
Hyperpigmentation	5,500 – 9,500	16,500 – 57,000
Stretch Marks	7,500 – 14,500	22,500 – 87,000
Uneven Skin	5,500 – 11,500	16,500 – 69,000
Sagging Skin	5,500 – 14,500	16,500 – 87,000

Here is the detailed cost of MNRF treatment in India based on body area:

Body Area	Minimum Cost	Average Cost
Face	16,150	43,000
Spot Treatment	5,000	12,500
Shoulders Arms	13,500	22,000
Abdomen	13,800	32100
Calves	14,500	22,500
Chest	15,000	23,000
Gluteal Region	21,500	30,000
Lower Back	14,500	29,000
Thighs	18,500	28,550

NOTE:

The price list mentioned here is indicative only and does not apply to MNRF treatment at Oliva. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist to know the exact cost of the MNRF treatment.

Must Read: How Much Does A Laser Treatment For Acne Scar Cost In India?

8 Factors Affecting The Cost Of MNRF Treatment

The cost of your MNRF treatment may depend on multiple factors:

Concern: Depending on your concern, the number and parameters of MNRF sessions will changeg. stretch marks may need more sessions than skin tightening, and thus be more costly to treat.
Severity Of The Concern: Severe scars may need more sessions than mild concerns, which would mean more sessions, adding to the cost.
Skin Thickness And Depth: People with thicker skin and deeper scars may need more sessions and thus need to pay more to get results than those with thin skin.
Size Of The Target Area: Smaller areas, like the face with acne scars, would be less costly to treat than large surface areas like the abdomen or thigh with stretch marks, as the latter would need more shots to cover the area.
Requirement Of Sessions: The more sessions needed, the more costly your treatment will be.
Customisation As Per Need: Each person may need different number of sessions with different parameters depending on the area and the concern treated. Accordingly, the cost of procedure might vary.
Location And Facilities: Clinics located at premier locations that are easily accessible with the updated machines and trained staff would charge a premium for their services.
Experience And Expertise Of Your Dermatologist: Visiting an experienced dermatologist with a track record of successfully performing MNRF procedures and assuring clients of good results might prove to be relatively

MNRF Treatment Before & After Results

MNRF shows remarkable efficacy in treating various concerns in different areas of the body. Here are a few images to show the visible results provided by MNRF in treating different concerns.

5 Common Side Effects Of RF Micro-needling

Side effects of MNRF are very few, mostly occurring immediately post-procedure and are mild to moderate in nature.

These include the following[3]:

Erythema/Redness:

Immediately after the procedure, there is usually visible redness in the treated area and it may appear warm to touch. It usually subsides within a few hours to two days.

Swelling:

Post-procedure swelling is also quite common, and it settles down within a day or two.

Crusting:

A day or two after the procedure, tiny crusts may form on the areas of needle prick, which then fall off by themselves in another couple of days.

Bruises/Bleeding Spots:

These rarely occur in fair people with very sensitive or thin skin but fade in a few days.

Sensitivity:

Skin may remain sensitive to touch or application of products for a few days after the procedure, during which your doctor may advise a proper skincare regimen and prescription creams.

Diligently following post-care instructions can help minimise these side effects.

8 After-Care Tips For MNRF Treatment:

Here are the major steps you need to follow after MNRF treatment for proper healing.

Avoid Sun Exposure:

Avoid direct sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or more for at least two weeks post-procedure. Use sunscreen daily and reapply every few hours. Prefer a physical sunscreen than a chemical one.

Skip Active Products:

Don’t use products with active ingredients like retinol or alpha hydroxy acids, which can irritate the skin during the healing time, which is about 1-2 weeks.

Do Not Use Makeup:

Avoid makeup for the first 3-4 days after treatment to let the skin breathe and heal.

Avoid Intensive Exercise:

Avoid heavy exercises to prevent excess sweating for the first 3 days.

Do Not Opt For Long Hot Baths, Steam, Sauna:

Avoid heat and steam exposure for one week.

Refrain From Undergoing Other Clinical Treatments:

Do not go for other skin treatments such as microdermabrasion, laser, IPL, chemical peels, and muscle stimulation until your skin recovery is complete.

Wash Your Face Gently:

Use lukewarm water for the first 48 hours. Use a gentle, non-exfoliating face wash using light, circular motions. Avoid scrubbing.

Moisturise Well:

Keep the skin well-moisturised, especially in the first week, to reduce trans-epidermal moisture loss.

Follow these instructions carefully to get the full benefit of the MNRF treatment and avoid any adverse effects.

As you now know, micro-needling radiofrequency (MNRF) offers a powerful solution for a broad range of skin concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to acne scars and stretch marks. This minimally invasive procedure promotes natural healing and collagen production, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin. It has almost no downtime or major side effects.

MNRF’s success heavily depends on your dermatologist’s expertise and the quality of machines and care at your clinic. Choose a reputed clinic and a skilled dermatologist for optimal results and a safe treatment experience.

Frequently Asked Questions On MNRF Treatment

How Is Fractional Radiofrequency Scar Treatment Different From Laser?

MNRF uses radiofrequency energy to heat the collagen under the skin. These waves flow between electrodes positioned on the surface of the skin. Heat flows through the layers of skin with less impedance and stimulates the synthesis of new collagen and elastin, thereby tightening the skin.

The laser uses a highly focused light beam, which converts into thermal energy (heat). It breaks down and remodels the scars, and over a period, they begin to heal.

Does RF Microneedling Hurt?

MNRF procedure is probably the least painful one for scar reduction. The lighter setting does not require the use of any numbing cream. However, before using the higher radiofrequency during micro-needling, your dermatologist may use one to eliminate any discomfort.

What Is The Downtime Of RF Microneedling?

The downtime of RF micro-needling procedure is very less. Depending on the intensity of the treatment, it may take a day or two for your skin to recover.

How Many Sessions of MNRF Should I Take And How Often?

Most people require 3-5 sessions of MNRF for over six months to attain visible results. The number of sessions depends on your skin’s response to the treatment.

The time interval between each session depends on the severity of the condition as well as the type of RF micro-needling you need to undergo. The dermatologist may suggest treatment sessions after a gap of 4-6 weeks.

How Do At-Home RF Microneedling Systems Compare To The Professional Services?

At-home RF micro-needling systems have their pros and cons. It can be cheaper but unsafe causing major side effects and permanent skin damage. If your research is not thorough, you may mishandle the equipment. Professional MNRF micro-needling is suitable for people who want to have a safe experience. It might be costly, but the results are optimal.

Are The Results Of MNRF Permanent?

Improvement in scars and stretch marks achieved through MNRF is permanent. Fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity may reappear with normal ageing process, and you may need maintenance sessions to prolong the results.

How Long Do The Results Of MNRF Treatment Last?

MNRF ensures a long-lasting improvement in your skin texture and tone, reducing scars and blemishes permanently. However, maintenance sessions may be necessary for long-term reduction in ageing changes like wrinkles and sagging.

Does MNRF Really Work?

Yes, MNRF is a versatile technology with application in treating many different skin concerns. Due to its combination of micro-needling and radiofrequency, it is more effective than traditional treatment options and can give remarkable effects if performed correctly.