SecretRF
Gentler radiofrequency microneedling for thin, crepey skin and scars.
Its heat spreads sideways, which suits delicate skin around the eyes.
What Is
SecretRF?
SecretRF is fractional radiofrequency microneedling, in which fine needles create tiny zones of injury up to 3.5 mm deep while radiofrequency energy passes between them, so the skin rebuilds collagen and tightens at the same time. Its heat spreads sideways rather than deep, which suits skin quality: crepey skin around the eyes and mouth, fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks and the full face.
At a Glance
- Comfort
- Needles and warmth; comfort planned in advance
- Downtime
- A few days of pink, slightly bumpy skin
- Results in
- Over months; full effect at about 6 months
- Sessions
- Often a short series
- Lasts
- Varies; maintenance planned with you
Who It’s For
Thin, crepey or scarred skin, most often around the eyes.
Ideal For
Thin, crepey skin around the eyes and mouth and on the neck; fine lines; indented acne scars; stretch marks that have a textural dip; and pores, tone and texture across the face. It suits skin that is thinning or crepey more than sagging. Most of our SecretRF treatments are around the eyes, then the full face. See all our lasers and devices.
When to Wait
If you have melasma, radiofrequency heat can make it flare, so your doctor will usually choose plain microneedling instead. Darker skin tones need settings chosen to avoid dark marks. Very dry, fragile skin, or skin left very thin by many earlier heat treatments, needs extra caution, so tell your doctor what you have had done.
What it cannot do
SecretRF improves skin quality. It does not replace lost volume or lift heavy sagging. Hollow under eyes need a different approach, such as PRF for under eyes or filler, and loosening on the jawline and neck to Ultherapy or Morpheus8. Acne scars usually need a combination of treatments, not one device alone (see acne scar treatment). Compare SecretRF, Morpheus8 and Ultherapy for skin tightening.
The Treatment
1
Skin, Scar
or Volume?
Your doctor works out what is behind your concern: thin, crepey skin, a scar, lost volume or pigment each need a different treatment, and SecretRF only treats the skin itself.
2
Heat Between
the Needles
Fine needles enter the skin to a set depth and radiofrequency energy passes between them. Expect pink, slightly bumpy skin for a few days. A gentle cleanser, a gentle moisturizer and daily sunscreen help it heal.
3
Collagen
Builds
New collagen forms over the following months and the full result takes about six months. Any plumpness in the first days is swelling.
Beneath the Surface
Often paired with: Sculptra & Radiesse, Ultherapy and Lasers & Devices.
“SecretRF only treats the skin itself, so before we choose a device I make sure we know whether we are dealing with crepey skin, a scar, lost volume or pigment.”
In Our Patients’ Words
“
I had a great experience with Dr. Fisher, who treated my acne scars with laser. She was incredibly compassionate, thorough and made me feel completely at ease throughout the whole process. … I’m already noticing a boost in my self-esteem thanks to the care I received. I highly recommend Dr. Fisher and Idriss Derm in general!
Bernie F.
“
I would recommend Dr Idriss a thousand times over and over. She is extremely knowledgeable, knows what will work and what won’t and will always give you an honest recommendations. You will never feel pushed into moving forward with any injections or procedures.
Hiva F.
“
Highly recommend Dr. Fisher! She truly cares about your skin health before anything else, which made the experience incredibly comforting and informative. I left feeling not only great about my results but like I’d actually learned something about my skin. Dr. Fisher takes the time to explain every detail and makes you feel completely welcome. …
Tyler G.
“
Absolutely love Dr. Idriss. She has a very thoughtful approach to her practice and really wants you to look and feel like the best version of you. I’ve been seeing her for years and trust her completely with all my skincare needs. She is also just a lovely person and my appointments are always a pleasure.
Ekaterina B.
Bryant Park, New York
Your Dermatologists
Radiofrequency heat behaves differently in thin, darker or scarred skin, so the settings are a medical decision. Our board-certified dermatologists set them for your skin, and will point you elsewhere when a different treatment suits you better.
Founder
Dr. Shereene Idriss
Often pairs Secret RF with PRP for skin quality.
Board-certified, Practicing since 2013
Dermatologic Surgeon
Dr. Juliya Fisher
Treats acne scars, and walks you through each step before she starts.
Double Board-certified, Columbia Mohs fellowship
Both doctors share one philosophy, so either is a good place to start. Book online with Dr. Fisher, or call (212) 612-1520 for Dr. Idriss.
Questions, Answered
How much does Secret RF cost at Idriss Dermatology?
What is Secret RF microneedling?
Is Secret RF FDA cleared?
Can Secret RF treat crepey skin under the eyes?
Does Secret RF work for acne scars?
Can Secret RF help stretch marks?
How much downtime does Secret RF have?
How many Secret RF sessions will I need?
Is Secret RF safe for darker skin?
We do not perform cosmetic treatments during pregnancy. Breastfeeding patients are evaluated case by case.