How it works
RF current encounters resistance in tissue and produces heat. Electrode arrangement, depth control, needles, cooling and feedback systems change where and how energy is delivered.
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Technology category · 14 devices
Radiofrequency and plasma-energy devices
Radiofrequency (RF) devices use electrical energy to generate controlled heat in tissue. Some work from the skin surface; others deliver energy through needles. Renuvion uses a distinct helium-plasma and RF system and is included here because of the internal taxonomy, not because it is interchangeable with surface RF.
Always follow the directions for use.
Potential benefits discussed
- RF does not rely on a pigment target in the same way as laser or IPL.
- Platforms can deliver energy from the surface or at selected needle depths.
- Temperature or impedance feedback is available on some systems.
Common use cases
- Skin-firmness and texture discussions
- RF microneedling for selected scar or texture concerns
- Body or facial contour discussions for particular systems
Limits that matter
- Surface RF, RF microneedling and subdermal plasma/RF are different procedures with different risk profiles.
- More heat is not automatically better.
- Implanted electronic or metal devices and medical history require screening.
Risks and cautions
- Pain, swelling, burns, pigment change, infection and scarring are possible.
- Needle-based systems add bleeding and infection risks.
- Subdermal or plasma-assisted procedures may be more invasive and require a different level of clinical governance.
Devices in this category
These are all active device terms in the internal directory taxonomy for this category as reviewed on 12 August 2026. Inclusion is not approval, endorsement or proof that every clinic listing is current.
Radiofrequency and ultrasound platform
Accent Prime
A modular platform combining RF and ultrasound-based applicators for selected face and body protocols.
Read the device explainerFractional radiofrequency microneedling
BTL EXION
A needle-based RF system that delivers energy at selected depths with device feedback features.
Read the device explainerBipolar surface radiofrequency
Forma
A surface RF handpiece designed to heat tissue while monitoring temperature.
Read the device explainerFractional radiofrequency microneedling
Genius RF
A microneedling RF platform using insulated needles and feedback during energy delivery.
Read the device explainerFractional radiofrequency microneedling
Morpheus8
A modular RF microneedling handpiece used with InMode platforms at selectable depths.
Read the device explainerFractional radiofrequency microneedling
Potenza
An RF microneedling platform with monopolar, bipolar, insulated and non-insulated needle options.
Read the device explainerTemperature-controlled RF microneedling
Profound RF
A needle-based RF system designed to deliver energy while measuring tissue temperature.
Read the device explainerHelium plasma and radiofrequency energy
Renuvion helium plasma
A device that combines helium plasma with RF energy for controlled tissue heating, including subdermal applications.
Read the device explainerFractional radiofrequency microneedling
Secret RF
A microneedling RF platform with adjustable needle depth and energy delivery.
Read the device explainerPulsed-wave and continuous-wave RF microneedling
Sylfirm X
A microneedling RF platform offering pulsed and continuous energy modes.
Read the device explainerMonopolar surface radiofrequency
Thermage FLX
A monopolar RF system that delivers surface-applied heating with contact cooling and vibration features.
Read the device explainerFractional radiofrequency resurfacing
Venus Viva RF
A fractional RF platform using pin-based applicators to deliver energy through the skin surface.
Read the device explainerFractional radiofrequency microneedling
Vivace
A microneedling RF system combining needle delivery, RF energy and optional LED illumination.
Read the device explainerMulti-frequency monopolar radiofrequency
XERF
A surface RF platform using more than one radiofrequency band with cooling and feedback controls.
Read the device explainerQuestions worth asking
- What exact device and handpiece will be used, and what is it intended to do?
- Who will perform the treatment, and what training and experience do they have with this device?
- What results are realistic for me, how many sessions may be discussed, and when would change be assessed?
- What are the important risks, alternatives, costs and aftercare requirements?
How to read the evidence
RF studies use different electrode designs, temperatures, passes, depths and endpoints. Device-specific evidence and operator technique both matter.