Radiofrequency, or RF for short, is a treatment used in both aesthetic treatments and eye care. Radiofrequency can tighten loose skin on many parts of the body, including the face. It’s a quick procedure tailored to your face, neck, and jawline, and a great non-surgical, minimally invasive alternative to a facelift.
Optometrists also use radiofrequency treatments to alleviate symptoms of dry eyes, like at our Dry Eye Spa. Using radiofrequency treatments to help with dry eye can also give you some of the cosmetic benefits of the treatment, making it a win-win!
How Cosmetic Radiofrequency Treatments Work
Cosmetic radiofrequency (RF) treatments work by using a device called an RF emitter. RF emitters use electromagnetic waves to generate heat beneath the surface of your skin. The heat from the RF emitter encourages your body to produce more collagen, elastin, and new skin cells. Collagen and elastin make the skin stronger and more flexible, and newly grown skin cells fill out the space beneath loose skin.
The result of the radiofrequency treatment is that once the treatment takes effect, your skin appears tighter. The new skin cells and proteins take some time to grow. It can take up to 2-6 months for the results to show up, though some patients are able to see results after a single session!
Once the radiofrequency treatment has tightened your skin, the effects of a single session can last for up to 6-12 months—or even longer, depending on factors like your age, skin condition, and skincare routine.
Radiofrequency treatments are generally recognized as being safe. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgeons endorses the use of radiofrequency treatments, and its website includes links to several FDA-approved treatment options.
How Radiofrequency Treatments for Dry Eye Work
The main benefit of radiofrequency treatments for dry eye is that the heat generated by the RF emitters can melt any blockages in the meibomian glands—glands along the edge of your eyelids that produce part of your eye’s tear layer—caused by a buildup of oily substances.
Another effect of radiofrequency treatments is that the RF emitter’s electromagnetic waves reduce inflammation inside your body. Since inflammation can worsen dry eye symptoms, reducing that inflammation can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
Dry eye treatments show their effects more quickly than cosmetic radiofrequency treatments. Normally, you’ll visit the optometrist 4 times in total, with two weeks between appointments. You may feel some benefits immediately and will normally see improvements after 3 or 4 sessions.
Since radiofrequency treatments for dry eye involve applying electromagnetic waves around the eyes, just like in cosmetic radiofrequency treatments, some patients notice a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles around their eyes following a radiofrequency treatment for dry eyes—a great two-for-one deal!
Post-Treatment Care Tips
Post-treatment care is important to maintain results after RF treatments, whether for cosmetic purposes or to alleviate dry eye symptoms.
After a cosmetic treatment, be sure to:
- Moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated by using a gentle, unscented moisturizer to promote healing and maintain elasticity.
- Use sun protection: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen daily to prevent damage and premature aging.
- Avoid harsh products: Refrain from using harsh chemicals or exfoliants on treated areas to prevent irritation.
After an eye care treatment, be sure to:
- Use preservative-free eye drops: Alleviate any temporary dryness or discomfort post-treatment by using drops recommended by your optometrist. Pack Optical + Med Spa can provide any optometrist-prescribed eye drops at our office.
- Use warm compresses: Soothe your eyes with a warm compress, which can help reduce inflammation. For added convenience, we offer warm compresses for purchase in our office.
For long-term maintenance, be sure to:
- Maintain healthy habits: Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and staying hydrated will support skin health and overall well-being.
- Maintain a skincare routine: Follow a skincare regime to help maintain long-lasting results and promote skin rejuvenation. We offer a full range of products available for purchase in our office.
- Take omega-3 supplements: Omega-3 essential fatty acids can be beneficial for promoting skin health. They can also help alleviate the symptoms of dry eye.
Are Radiofrequency Treatments Right For You?
Radiofrequency treatments can be a great option for both aesthetic and eye-care purposes. With a commitment to providing comprehensive services, Pack Optical + Med Spa is delighted to offer these treatments, helping clients receive tailored care for their specific concerns. For more information on the benefits and applications of radiofrequency treatments, contact us today!
