Potenza (Cynosure) — RF microneedling

In a sentence: Potenza combines tiny needles with gentle radio-frequency heat to boost collagen—refining texture, softening fine lines and adding modest tightening, with short downtime.

Who it’s best for

  • 20s–30s: texture/pores, small acne marks, prevention.
  • 40s–50s: mild laxity at jaw/neck, fine lines, uneven texture.
  • 60s: crepey texture or mild laxity as part of a layered plan.

What it can do

  • Smooth texture and pores; improve mild acne scars over a series.
  • Provide modest firming (not a surgical lift).

What makes Potenza different

  • Monopolar & bipolar modes (1–2 MHz): flexibility to treat deeper or more superficial layers.
  • Fusion Tip: designed to drive topicals deeper while treating.
  • Tiger Tip: releases RF at two depths for coverage efficiency.

Treatment & sessions

  • During: Numbing cream, then stamping passes; ~30–45 minutes for face.
  • How many: Often 3 sessions ~4–6 weeks apart; maintenance 1–2×/year.

Healing time & aftercare

  • Downtime: usually 1–3 days of redness/swelling; tiny dots/scabs if deeper.
  • Aftercare: gentle cleanse/moisturiser, SPF; pause hot workouts and strong actives for a few days.

Safety in deeper complexions

RF microneedling is generally suitable across skin tones when parameters are conservative. Choose providers experienced with Fitzpatrick IV–VI.

Possible side effects

  • Common: redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, dryness/flaking.
  • Less common: PIH (temporary darkening), acne flare, cold sores.
  • Rare: burns/blisters, infection, scarring—seek review if severe or persistent.

Who should avoid (or delay)

  • Pregnancy/breastfeeding (usually deferred).
  • Active infection/open wounds; recent herpes without prophylaxis.
  • Pacemaker/defibrillator or implanted electronics; non-removable metal near area (device-specific).
  • Recent isotretinoin or conditions that impair healing—discuss with your clinician.

At-a-glance

  • Best for: texture/pores, mild acne marks, fine lines, mild laxity.
  • Sessions: ~3, spaced 4–6 weeks.
  • Downtime: ~1–3 days.

Reference links

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