Crepey under eye skin has patients weighing RF microneedling vs Opus Plasma for smoother results. Here's how the two treatments actually differ, and which one may fit your skin texture best.
Allurant Medical Spa | San Diego
RF Microneedling San Diego
Smoother, firmer skin with Scarlet SRF radiofrequency microneedling at Allurant Medical Spa in Carmel Valley.
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Personalized RF Microneedling in Carmel Valley
Acne scars, crepey texture, and softening skin can make you feel older than you are. Many patients try facials and peels without lasting change. However, the radiofrequency microneedling treatment our San Diego patients rely on works deeper than surface treatments. As a result, it can improve texture, firmness, and scarring from within the skin.
At Allurant Medical Spa, our providers perform RF microneedling with Scarlet SRF, an advanced radiofrequency microneedling device. Our physician directed practice is based in Carmel Valley, San Diego. Your RF microneedling provider will be Dr. Kat Khorrami, MD, or one of our registered nurses, Kimberly or Gabriela. In addition, our office is a short drive from Del Mar, La Jolla, Torrey Pines, and Rancho Santa Fe.
What Is Radiofrequency Microneedling?
RF microneedling combines two proven approaches in one treatment. First, fine needles create tiny, controlled channels in the skin. At the same time, the needles deliver radiofrequency energy, a gentle heat, into the deeper layer called the dermis. Together, these actions trigger your body’s natural healing response and new collagen production. Because of this, radiofrequency microneedling can improve firmness and texture more deeply than needles alone. At our San Diego practice, Scarlet RF microneedling delivers this approach with precise control.
How Scarlet RF Microneedling Works
Scarlet RF microneedling uses a handpiece with fine, bipolar needles made by VIOL. The device delivers radiofrequency energy in short, controlled pulses rather than one long burst. Therefore, your provider can target specific depths while limiting heat in the surrounding skin. Your provider also adjusts the needle depth and energy level for each area of your face. As a result, Scarlet RF microneedling can treat delicate areas and thicker skin in the same session.
How RF Microneedling Compares to Other Skin Treatments
Choosing between skin treatments can feel confusing. However, each technology works differently and fits different goals. Here is how radiofrequency microneedling compares with four other options at Allurant Medical Spa.
RF Microneedling vs Traditional Microneedling
Traditional microneedling at Allurant uses SkinPen microneedling to create controlled micro channels near the surface. Radiofrequency microneedling adds heat, so the treatment reaches deeper and tightens as it renews. Therefore, SkinPen often suits texture and mild scarring, while Scarlet RF microneedling suits laxity and deeper scars.
RF Microneedling vs Fractional RF
Our fractional RF treatment uses the Venus Viva system to deliver energy through the skin’s surface. In contrast, RF microneedling places energy beneath the surface through fine needles. As a result, fractional RF works well for surface texture, while RF microneedling targets deeper remodeling.
RF Microneedling vs Opus Plasma
Opus Plasma resurfacing combines fractional plasma with radiofrequency energy to renew the outer layers of skin. Meanwhile, RF microneedling focuses energy deeper, with less disruption to the skin’s surface. Your provider may recommend either treatment, or both, depending on your concerns and preferred recovery.
RF Microneedling vs Morpheus8
Many San Diego patients first hear about RF microneedling through Morpheus8. Both Morpheus8 and Scarlet SRF deliver radiofrequency energy through fine needles beneath the skin. However, Allurant Medical Spa uses Scarlet SRF and does not offer Morpheus8. For a deeper look, read our guide comparing Morpheus8 and Scarlet RF.
What RF Microneedling Can Treat
Many skin concerns start beneath the surface, where collagen and elastin decline over time. Radiofrequency microneedling reaches that deeper layer to support gradual, natural looking improvement. For example, San Diego patients often choose RF microneedling for the following concerns.
Acne Scars
Depressed acne scars can linger for years after breakouts clear. RF microneedling helps remodel stiff scar tissue and stimulates new collagen beneath it. Over time, many scars appear softer and shallower.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Fine lines often deepen as collagen production slows with age. Because RF microneedling stimulates new collagen, skin can gradually look smoother. Similarly, early wrinkles can soften as the skin rebuilds its support.
Mild Skin Laxity
Skin along the jawline and neck can lose firmness over time. The radiofrequency energy tightens existing collagen and encourages new growth. As a result, mild skin laxity can improve without surgery.
Enlarged Pores and Uneven Texture
Enlarged pores and rough texture can make makeup sit unevenly. RF microneedling refines skin texture irregularities as fresh collagen fills in from below. Consequently, skin often looks smoother and more even after a treatment series.
Facial Scars
Surgical or injury facial scars can sit higher or lower than nearby skin. Controlled needling and heat encourage the scar to remodel alongside healthy tissue. In addition, your provider adjusts settings to protect the skin around the scar.
RF Microneedling Treatment Areas
Different areas of the face need different needle depths and energy levels. Therefore, your provider customizes each Scarlet RF microneedling session to the areas you want to treat. Common areas for RF microneedling at our San Diego office include the following.
RF Microneedling Benefits at Allurant Medical Spa
Many patients want visible improvement without surgery or a long recovery. Scarlet RF microneedling offers several benefits that work together beneath the surface. As a result, your skin can look smoother, firmer, and more refreshed over time.
Deeper Collagen Stimulation
Radiofrequency energy reaches the dermis, where collagen and elastin form. As a result, radiofrequency microneedling results can extend beyond what surface treatments achieve.
Smoother Scars and Texture
Controlled micro channels and heat encourage scar tissue to remodel. Over time, acne scars and rough texture often look smoother.
Gradual, Natural Looking Change
Your skin builds collagen slowly over several months. Therefore, RF microneedling results look natural rather than sudden or overdone.
Minimal Downtime
Most patients return to daily activities within a day or two. However, mild redness and swelling can last a few days.
Customized Depth and Energy
Scarlet RF microneedling allows precise adjustments for each area. Consequently, your provider can treat delicate and thicker skin in one visit.
Meet Your San Diego Providers
Choosing an experienced provider matters with any RF microneedling treatment. At Allurant Medical Spa, Dr. Kat Khorrami, MD, and registered nurses Kimberly and Gabriela perform every RF microneedling treatment. In addition, Dr. Khorrami oversees every treatment plan as Medical Director.
Dr. Kat
President/Medical Director
Kimberly
Registered Nurse
Gabriela
Registered Nurse
What to Expect From Your RF Microneedling Treatment
01
Consultation
Every RF microneedling treatment begins with a consultation with Dr. Kat Khorrami, MD. During this visit, Dr. Khorrami examines your concerns, skin type, and medical history. Then, together you decide whether RF microneedling fits your needs. You will also review the expected number of sessions, recovery, and RF microneedling results.
02
Treatment
First, a member of our care team cleanses your skin and applies a topical numbing cream. Once the area feels numb, your provider moves the Scarlet handpiece across each treatment zone. Most patients feel warmth and light pressure rather than sharp pain. Overall, the length of your visit depends on the size and number of treatment areas.
03
Recovery and Aftercare
After your RF microneedling treatment, your skin may look pink or feel warm. Your provider gives you instructions for gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. In addition, avoid makeup, intense exercise, and heat exposure for as long as your provider recommends. Most patients return to normal routines within a day or two.
RF Microneedling Results and Recovery Timeline
RF microneedling results develop gradually because collagen takes time to form. Your timeline depends on your skin, your concerns, and the settings your provider uses. For most San Diego patients, RF microneedling results unfold over several months.
The First Few Days
Redness, mild swelling, and tiny marks from the needles usually fade within a few days. Meanwhile, your skin may feel dry or slightly rough as it heals.
The First Few Weeks
As healing continues, many patients notice a brighter, smoother complexion. However, the deeper collagen changes are only beginning at this stage.
Three to Six Months
Collagen continues to build for several months after each session. Consequently, RF microneedling results for firmness and scarring often look best months after your final treatment.
How Many Sessions You May Need
Many patients benefit from a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart. Your provider recommends a plan based on your concerns and how your skin responds. Afterward, maintenance sessions can help preserve your RF microneedling results.
Are You a Good Candidate for RF Microneedling?
An RF microneedling treatment may suit you if you want to improve scars, texture, fine lines, or laxity. In addition, it can suit many skin tones because most of the energy stays beneath the surface. Patients who want less downtime than aggressive lasers often consider it as well. However, radiofrequency microneedling cannot replace surgery for significant sagging. During your San Diego consultation, Dr. Khorrami reviews your goals and whether RF microneedling is your best option.
Risks and Considerations
Every RF microneedling treatment is a medical procedure, so choosing a trained provider matters. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as redness, swelling, dryness, or tiny marks. Less commonly, patients may notice bruising, temporary darkening of the skin, or breakouts. Fortunately, these effects usually improve as the skin heals.
The FDA noted in 2025 that rare but serious injuries, such as burns or scarring, can occur. For this reason, every treatment at Allurant Medical Spa takes place under physician direction. In addition, your provider adjusts the depth and energy for your skin and watches for warning signs.
RF microneedling may not suit patients who are pregnant or have an active skin infection near the treatment area. Likewise, an implanted electronic device, recent isotretinoin use, or a history of keloid scarring may require another plan. Before recommending treatment, your provider reviews your full medical history.
Treatments That Pair Well With RF Microneedling
RF microneedling improves skin quality and firmness from within. However, facial aging also involves muscle movement, volume loss, and changes in tone. Combining treatments can address these concerns while each treatment does what it does best.
PRF Treatments
PRF treatment uses growth factors from your own blood to support healing and collagen production. When applied after RF microneedling, PRF can enhance skin renewal. Allurant Medical Spa offers PRF, not PRP, for this purpose.
Botox
Botox injections relax the muscles that cause expression lines. Meanwhile, RF microneedling improves the quality of the skin where those lines form.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers restore lost volume that RF microneedling cannot replace. Together, these treatments address both facial structure and skin quality.
EMFACE
EMFACE strengthens facial muscles and stimulates collagen without needles. As a result, it can complement RF microneedling for overall lift and firmness.
Why Choose Allurant Medical Spa for RF Microneedling in San Diego
RF microneedling results depend heavily on the provider and the settings used. Therefore, choosing your practice carefully matters as much as choosing the treatment.
Physician Directed Care
Every treatment plan at Allurant Medical Spa follows physician direction. As a result, your care combines medical oversight with careful, experienced technique.
Experienced Providers
Your treatment comes from Dr. Kat Khorrami, MD, or registered nurses Kimberly or Gabriela. In addition, you know exactly who is treating your skin at every visit.
Multiple Technologies Under One Roof
Allurant offers SkinPen, Scarlet, Venus Viva, and Opus Plasma in one practice. Therefore, your provider recommends the right technology for your skin, not simply the only one available.
A Convenient Carmel Valley Location
Our Valley Centre Drive office sits in Carmel Valley, San Diego. Additionally, patients from Del Mar, La Jolla, and Rancho Santa Fe can reach us within minutes.
RF Microneedling Reviews From Our San Diego Patients
Frequently Asked Questions About RF Microneedling in San Diego
How does RF microneedling differ from fractional RF?
RF microneedling delivers radiofrequency energy beneath the skin through fine needles, while fractional RF delivers energy through the surface. At Allurant Medical Spa, we perform fractional RF with Venus Viva and RF microneedling with Scarlet. Your provider recommends the right option based on your concerns, skin, and recovery preferences.
What does RF microneedling treat?
RF microneedling treats acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, uneven texture, and mild skin laxity. The treatment works by stimulating new collagen and elastin beneath the skin’s surface. As a result, many patients see smoother, firmer skin that continues improving for several months.
Is RF microneedling painful?
Most patients describe RF microneedling as warm pressure rather than sharp pain. Before your RF microneedling treatment, our team applies a topical numbing cream. In addition, Scarlet delivers energy in short pulses, and your provider can adjust settings if an area feels sensitive.
When will I see results from RF microneedling?
Many patients notice brighter, smoother skin within a few weeks of treatment. However, collagen keeps building for several months, so firmness and scar improvements appear gradually. RF microneedling results often look best three to six months after your final session in a treatment series.
Planning Your RF Microneedling Treatment
How many RF microneedling sessions will I need?
Many patients benefit from a series of RF microneedling sessions spaced several weeks apart. The exact number depends on your concerns, skin condition, and goals. During your consultation, Dr. Khorrami recommends a personalized plan and may suggest maintenance treatments to preserve results.
Can RF microneedling be combined with other treatments?
Yes, RF microneedling pairs well with PRF, Botox, dermal fillers, and EMFACE. Each treatment targets a different part of facial aging, from skin quality to volume and muscle movement. Your provider times combination treatments carefully so each one safely supports your overall results.
How long does RF microneedling last?
RF microneedling results can last a year or longer because the collagen your skin builds stays in place. However, natural aging continues, so many patients schedule a maintenance session once or twice a year. Daily sun protection and good skincare also help your results last longer.
Is RF microneedling safe?
Yes, RF microneedling is considered safe for most healthy adults when a trained medical provider performs the treatment. Typically, side effects are mild, such as redness, swelling, or sensitivity that improves within a few days. At Allurant Medical Spa, every Scarlet treatment takes place under the medical direction of Dr. Kat Khorrami, MD.
How much does RF microneedling cost in San Diego?
RF microneedling cost at Allurant Medical Spa in San Diego depends on the treatment area, number of sessions, and goals. During your consultation, Dr. Kat Khorrami, MD, reviews your skin and recommends a personalized plan. As a result, you receive a clear quote before any treatment begins.
Ready for Smoother, Firmer Skin?
Your skin concerns and goals are unique, so your treatment plan should be too. Therefore, schedule a consultation at our Carmel Valley office for RF microneedling in San Diego.
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