Does RF Microneedling Hurt? A Complete Guide to Pain, Comfort & What to Expect

Key Takeaways

• RF microneedling utilises both microneedling and RF energy for enhanced skin rejuvenation.
• The procedure's pain level can vary significantly based on individual thresholds and treatment areas.
• Utilising numbing creams can significantly reduce discomfort during the procedure.
• Post-treatment sensations may include redness and tenderness, similar to a mild sunburn.
• Practitioners have various methods to ensure comfort and minimise pain during RF microneedling sessions.
• Understanding the treatment can help alleviate fears about pain and improve overall experience.

What Is RF Microneedling and Why People Worry About Pain

RF microneedling is an advanced cosmetic procedure that combines two proven techniques, microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) energy, to rejuvenate the skin. The treatment creates controlled micro-injuries while delivering heat into the deeper layers, stimulating collagen and elastin production for firmer, smoother, and more youthful skin. 

However, because it combines both needle penetration and thermal energy, many people worry about potential discomfort during the procedure.

How Needles Create Controlled Micro-Injury

The foundation of RF microneedling lies in its ability to create precise, controlled micro-injuries using ultra-fine needles. These microchannels trigger the body’s natural healing response, encouraging new collagen and elastin formation. 

This targeted stimulation helps address concerns such as scars, wrinkles, and uneven texture while ensuring minimal surface damage and downtime.

By promoting natural regeneration, this stage supports smoother texture and improved firmness. The precision of the microneedles ensures uniform penetration, enhancing results while maintaining comfort and safety throughout the treatment.

How RF Energy Adds Heat to the Dermis

This technology differs from traditional techniques but RF microneedling works by adding radiofrequency energy that heats the deeper dermal layers.

This controlled heat stimulates fibroblasts and promotes stronger collagen remodeling, amplifying tightening and rejuvenation effects beyond the superficial skin layer.

This dual stimulation, mechanical injury from the needles and heat from RF energy, helps improve fine lines, skin laxity, and texture in fewer sessions. The process not only firms the skin but also enhances long-term elasticity and resilience.

Why the Combination Can Increase Sensation

The combination of micro-injury and RF heat intensifies sensations during treatment. As the device delivers both physical punctures and thermal energy, patients may experience mild warmth, tingling, or prickling sensations on the skin. 

This reaction is part of the body’s immediate healing response and typically subsides quickly once the session ends.

Areas with thinner skin, such as the under-eye or upper lip, may feel slightly more sensitive. However, the use of numbing creams ensures that most patients find the treatment tolerable and far less painful than expected.

Why Pain Levels Vary Between Individuals

Pain and possible downside during RF microneedling varies widely between individuals. Factors such as skin sensitivity, treatment depth, device settings, and personal pain threshold all contribute to how discomfort is perceived. Patients with thicker or more resilient skin often experience minimal discomfort, while those with thinner skin may feel slightly more warmth or pressure.

Most clinics use topical anaesthetics before treatment, greatly reducing discomfort and ensuring a smoother experience. Overall, RF microneedling is well-tolerated, with patients describing it as a warm prickling or light pressure sensation rather than pain.

Note: Mild redness or sensitivity may occur temporarily after the procedure, but these effects resolve quickly, leaving the skin visibly tighter and more radiant within days.

Is RF Microneedling Painful? 

RF microneedling is generally well-tolerated, but the level of discomfort can vary depending on factors such as numbing use, treatment area, and needle depth. 

While the procedure involves both mechanical and thermal stimulation, most patients describe it as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful, especially when numbing cream is applied beforehand.

Pain Level With Numbing Cream

When a topical numbing cream is applied, the majority of patients report minimal discomfort during treatment. The anaesthetic effectively dulls sensations, making the process feel more like light pressure or gentle pricking rather than true pain.

The numbing allows the device to work at effective depths with little sensitivity, even on delicate areas such as around the eyes or mouth. This makes the treatment far more comfortable and manageable for most patients.

Pain Level Without Numbing

Without numbing, RF microneedling can feel significantly more intense. Patients may experience sharp, warm, or stinging sensations, especially when the device reaches deeper skin layers. 

The level of discomfort varies depending on personal pain tolerance and skin sensitivity.

Those with thinner or more reactive skin often find the procedure uncomfortable without anaesthetic, which is why most practitioners strongly recommend numbing cream before beginning treatment.

Which Areas Hurt More (Face vs Body)

Pain sensitivity differs across treatment areas. The face, particularly the forehead, nose, and upper lip, tends to be more sensitive due to thinner skin and higher nerve density. These regions benefit most from thorough numbing before treatment.

Larger body areas, like the abdomen, thighs, or arms, usually experience less discomfort as the skin is thicker and less reactive. However, intensity can still vary depending on the settings used and individual tolerance.

Why Deeper Settings Feel More Intense

As needle penetration depth increases, so does the potential for discomfort. Deeper settings deliver RF energy further into the dermis, stimulating stronger collagen remodeling but also activating more sensory nerves.

Practitioners typically adjust needle depth and energy output based on the treatment area and patient comfort. This personalisation ensures safe, effective results while keeping sensations at a tolerable level throughout the session.

What RF Microneedling Feels Like During Treatment

An RF microneedling session brings a range of sensations that differ from standard microneedling due to the added element of radiofrequency energy. Most patients describe the experience as a mix of light prickling, warmth, and gentle pressure, rather than outright pain.

Prickling or Pressure Sensation

The treatment begins with a series of fine, rapid needle insertions that create microchannels in the skin. This produces a prickling or light pressure sensation as the device moves across the treatment area.

The feeling can be slightly sharp in certain spots, but it’s usually described as mild discomfort rather than pain.

Most clinics apply numbing cream beforehand, which dulls sensitivity and makes the prickling feel more like a quick tapping motion. This ensures that the experience remains tolerable and consistent across the face or body.

Heat or Warmth Under the Skin

Once the radiofrequency energy is activated, you’ll feel a gentle warmth spreading beneath the skin’s surface. This controlled heat stimulates collagen remodeling and improves elasticity. 

Many patients find this sensation comforting and relaxing, as it indicates that the RF energy is effectively reaching the deeper dermal layers.

The warmth is brief and localised, subsiding as the device moves to the next section of skin. Overall, this stage contributes to the tightening and rejuvenation effects associated with RF microneedling.

Tingling or Tightness in Sensitive Areas

In delicate areas such as around the eyes, nose, and lips, you may experience slight tingling or tightness during treatment. 

This is due to the thinner skin and higher sensitivity in these regions. The sensations are temporary and quickly fade after the device passes over the area.

After treatment, the skin may continue to feel tight or slightly warm for several hours, a normal sign of collagen activation and tissue regeneration. These effects generally resolve within the same day.

Discomfort Differences Between Devices

Different RF microneedling systems deliver varying comfort levels depending on their precision, heat control, and design quality.

• Modern Devices (Morpheus8, Sylfirm X, Focus Dual): Provide smooth, even energy delivery, reducing irritation and discomfort.
• Older Systems: Can cause uneven heat or sharper sensations due to less refined technology.
• Clinic Expertise: Skilled practitioners using advanced devices ensure safer, more comfortable sessions.

Factors That Influence How Much RF Microneedling Hurts

The level of discomfort during radiofrequency microneedling varies from person to person and depends on several key factors. Elements such as needle depth, energy levels, device type, skin sensitivity, and treatment area all play a role in shaping your experience. 

Needle Depth and Energy Levels

The needle depth determines how far the microneedles penetrate into the skin, influencing both the treatment intensity and sensation. Deeper settings typically reach the lower dermal layers for stronger collagen stimulation but can feel more sensitive. Similarly, higher energy levels increase the warmth and tightening sensation as heat is delivered into the skin.

Practitioners often balance these settings based on your skin type and treatment goals to maintain comfort while achieving effective skin tightening and improved skin texture. These variations also contribute to RF microneedling pricing factors, since deeper settings and advanced devices typically require higher expertise and investment. 

Device Type (Morpheus8, Secret RF, Potenza, Sylfirm X)

Different radiofrequency microneedling devices provide varied comfort levels and precision. Advanced RF microneedling systems such as Morpheus8 and Sylfirm X use insulated microneedles with adjustable depths and controlled RF heat delivery, enabling precise collagen remodeling with minimal surface damage. 

Secret RF and Potenza are also engineered to accommodate multiple skin types, allowing for customised intensity across treatment areas. 

Skin Sensitivity & Personal Pain Threshold

Your individual skin sensitivity and personal pain threshold greatly influence how much discomfort you feel during treatment. 

People with thinner or more delicate skin types may experience stronger sensations compared to those with thicker or oilier complexions.

Preparing your skin with hydration and avoiding irritants before treatment helps reduce reactivity. Communicating with your practitioner about your comfort level allows them to adjust settings, ensuring an effective yet tolerable radiofrequency microneedling experience.

Treatment Location + Bone Proximity (Jawline, Forehead)

Pain levels often depend on the treatment location and how close the area is to bone. Regions like the forehead, jawline, and cheekbones tend to feel more sensitive because the skin is thinner and less cushioned. 

In contrast, areas with more fat or muscle, such as the abdomen or thighs, typically experience milder sensations.

By adjusting energy output and using proper technique, practitioners can minimize discomfort in sensitive zones while still promoting skin tightening and improved skin tone across the face and body.

How Practitioners Reduce Pain During RF Microneedling

Pain management is a key part of radiofrequency microneedling, ensuring that patients remain comfortable while still achieving strong skin tightening and skin texture improvement results. 

Skilled practitioners use a combination of techniques, from numbing creams to temperature control and customised device settings, to make the procedure as tolerable as possible for every skin type.

Topical Anaesthesia (Numbing Cream)

Before starting the procedure, clinicians commonly apply a topical anaesthetic cream to the treatment area to minimize discomfort. The numbing agent works by temporarily blocking nerve transmission in the superficial layers of the skin, allowing the microneedles and radiofrequency energy to penetrate with reduced sensitivity.

In clinical practice, topical anaesthetics such as lidocaine–prilocaine are typically left on the skin for approximately 20 to 45 minutes to achieve full effect.

Once adequate numbness is achieved, most patients tolerate the procedure well and report mild to moderate sensations of pressure or warmth rather than significant pain. Studies consistently describe RF microneedling as a well-tolerated treatment when proper anaesthesia is used.

Cooling, Airflow & Comfort Settings

Modern devices often include cooling mechanisms and airflow systems that help maintain comfort throughout the treatment. These features regulate skin temperature, offsetting the heat generated by RF energy.

By cooling the surface while targeting the deeper layers, practitioners protect the epidermis and reduce sensitivity. This approach makes the overall experience smoother, even for those with reactive skin types or uneven skin tone.

Adjusting Depth for Sensitive Areas

Experienced practitioners tailor needle depth and RF energy to match different areas of the face and body. Sensitive zones, like the under-eye, forehead, or upper lip, require shallower penetration to reduce discomfort while still promoting collagen remodeling.

This individualised adjustment ensures effective skin tightening across all treated areas without unnecessary pain. Constant feedback between patient and practitioner helps maintain both precision and comfort throughout the session.

Sedation or Injectable Options for Advanced Cases

For patients with low pain tolerance or high anxiety, some clinics offer mild sedation or injectable anaesthetics to enhance comfort during longer or more intensive treatments. These options provide an extra layer of relief while maintaining the effectiveness of the procedure.

Although most patients do not require sedation, discussing pain-management preferences with your practitioner ensures a treatment experience that feels safe, personalised, and aligned with your comfort level.

Does RF Microneedling Hurt More Than Other Treatments?

When evaluating radiofrequency microneedling against other rejuvenation methods, it’s helpful to understand where it falls on the comfort spectrum. Pain perception varies, but most patients find RF microneedling tolerable, especially with numbing cream, ranking it between traditional microneedling and CO₂ laser in terms of intensity.

Here’s how it compares across treatments that also target skin tightening, skin tone, and skin texture.

RF Microneedling vs Traditional Microneedling

Both treatments stimulate collagen through micro-injury, but RF microneedling adds controlled heat to reach deeper layers of the skin. This enhances skin tone and texture, though it may cause slightly more sensation during treatment. When comparing RF or Fractional Laser, RF microneedling remains the preferred choice for patients who want deeper collagen remodeling with minimal downtime.

• RF microneedling introduces gentle heat into the deeper layers of the skin, creating a warm prickling sensation.
• Traditional microneedling feels more like surface scratching or light pressure.
• Numbing cream helps make both treatments tolerable across most skin types.
• RF achieves stronger skin tightening and longer-lasting results in fewer sessions.

RF Microneedling vs CO₂ Laser

CO₂ lasers resurface the skin by removing its outer layer, while RF microneedling works beneath it to trigger collagen regeneration with less discomfort and faster recovery.

• CO₂ laser treatments can cause sharper, burning sensations due to surface ablation.
• RF microneedling delivers heat beneath the skin, resulting in warmth rather than stinging.
• Recovery is quicker with RF microneedling, with redness subsiding within a few days.
• Both improve skin tightening, but RF is safer and more adaptable for different skin tones.

RF Microneedling vs Chemical Peels

Chemical peels focus on exfoliating the outer skin layers, often causing stinging or burning sensations. RF microneedling, however, works within deeper skin structures to rebuild collagen and improve firmness.

• Peels create surface-level discomfort as acids react with the skin.
• RF microneedling produces internal warmth without surface irritation.
• Cooling systems and numbing cream make RF more comfortable for all skin types.
• It provides more durable improvements in skin tone and elasticity.

Where RF Sits on a “Pain Scale” of Popular Treatments

RF microneedling generally rates around 4–6 out of 10 on a discomfort scale, making it a tolerable and balanced choice among non-surgical rejuvenation treatments.

• Traditional Microneedling: Pain is usually rated between 3 and 5, with a mild scratching or pressure sensation, minimal downtime, and good comfort when numbing is used.
• RF Microneedling: Pain typically ranges from 4 to 6, combining warmth and prickling sensations, with low to moderate downtime and heat that is generally easy to manage.
• CO₂ Laser: Pain is often rated between 6 and 8, characterised by heat and stinging, with moderate to high downtime and a longer recovery period required.
• Chemical Peel: Pain usually falls between 5 and 7, presenting as surface burning or stinging, with variable downtime and only temporary irritation.

Note: These pain scores are based on general patient feedback and practitioner observations. Individual comfort levels may vary depending on skin sensitivity, device type, and anaesthetic use.

What to Expect After RF Microneedling (Pain & Sensation)

After an RF microneedling session, it’s completely normal to experience mild sensations as the skin begins to heal and remodel collagen. 

Understanding what to expect in the hours and days following treatment helps you manage your post-care effectively and ensures optimal recovery without unnecessary concern.

Redness, Heat & Swelling

Right after treatment, you may notice redness and mild swelling that resemble a light sunburn. This reaction indicates that your skin is healing and that new collagen production has been triggered. These effects typically fade within a few days as the skin barrier recovers.

Some warmth or tightness may also occur within the first 24 hours. Keeping the skin cool with compresses and applying gentle moisturiser helps soothe irritation. Avoid direct heat, makeup, and intense workouts during this stage to support faster healing.

Tenderness or “Sunburn” Feeling

A mild sunburn-like tenderness is a common post-treatment sensation. The skin might feel slightly tight or warm, especially in sensitive areas like the cheeks or forehead. This tenderness generally peaks on the first day and then begins to ease as inflammation subsides.

Proper aftercare makes a noticeable difference in comfort. Use fragrance-free moisturisers and avoid exfoliants or active ingredients for at least 72 hours. With consistent hydration, the tenderness fades and the skin gradually feels firmer and smoother.

When Post-Treatment Pain Is Not Normal

Mild redness and tenderness are common after RF microneedling, but some symptoms may indicate a complication and need prompt medical attention.

Seek professional help if you notice:

• Sharp or persistent pain that doesn’t ease within a few days.
• Heavy swelling or redness that worsens instead of improving.
• Pus or oozing from the treated area, suggesting possible infection.
• Blistering or burning sensations that develop hours after treatment.
• Spreading sensitivity or warmth beyond the treated region.

Early evaluation by your practitioner helps ensure proper healing and prevents long-term damage or scarring.

Pain Duration Differences (First 24–72 Hours)

Discomfort is typically most noticeable during the first 24 hours, followed by steady improvement. Redness and warmth fade within two to three days, while mild tightness or dryness may persist slightly longer.

Some individuals, especially those with thinner or sensitive skin, might feel lingering tenderness for a few more days. Listening to your body, avoiding heat exposure, and following aftercare advice ensure a smoother, irritation-free recovery period.

• Redness: This is a common reaction that usually fades within a few days, but you should seek advice if redness persists beyond a week.
• Swelling: Mild to moderate swelling is typical after treatment, however severe swelling that does not subside should be assessed by a professional.
• Pain: Discomfort is usually mild and similar to sunburn, but sharp or prolonged pain is not expected and should be checked.
• Tenderness: Tenderness often lasts for a few days, though worsening or spreading sensitivity may indicate a need for medical review.

Note: Temporary redness and tenderness are part of healthy recovery. If pain intensifies or lasts beyond a few days, consult your practitioner for evaluation and guidance.

Tips to Minimise Discomfort Before & After Treatment

Reducing discomfort during RF microneedling starts with proper preparation and continues with mindful aftercare. By taking steps before and after your session, you can significantly lessen sensitivity, improve healing, and make the overall experience far more comfortable. 

From prepping your skin to managing post-treatment reactions, these small adjustments can make a big difference.

Pre-Treatment Skin Prep

Preparing your skin ahead of your RF microneedling session helps minimise irritation and maximise treatment effectiveness. A calm, hydrated skin barrier responds better and heals faster afterward.

• Avoid Irritants: Stop using exfoliants, retinoids, and acids at least one week before treatment.
• Hydrate Well: Focus on moisture-rich skincare and drink plenty of water daily.
• Arrive Fresh: Ensure your skin is clean, dry, and makeup-free before the session.
• Skip Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and alcohol for 24 hours to reduce sensitivity.

Post-Care Products That Reduce Sensitivity

Your skin is especially sensitive after RF microneedling, so using gentle, restorative products is essential for comfort and healing. The right post-care routine supports barrier repair and prevents irritation.

• Use Gentle Hydration: Apply mild, fragrance-free moisturisers or hyaluronic acid serums to maintain hydration.
• Avoid Active Ingredients: Skip retinol, glycolic acid, and vitamin C for 3–5 days to prevent stinging or redness.
• Soothe & Cool: Use aloe vera or cooling gels to calm inflammation and support smooth recovery.
• Stay Consistent: Keep your skincare routine simple until the barrier fully heals.

Avoiding Heat, Sweat & Irritation

During the initial healing phase, it’s essential to protect your skin from excess heat and friction. Avoid hot showers, saunas, intense workouts, or direct sunlight for at least 48–72 hours after your RF microneedling session. Heat and sweat can irritate open microchannels and slow down healing.

Wear loose, breathable clothing if body areas were treated, and avoid touching or rubbing the skin unnecessarily. Keeping the skin cool and clean during recovery minimises discomfort and prevents potential breakouts or inflammation.

How Anxiety & Stress Influence Treatment Comfort

Your mental state can influence how your body perceives pain. Higher anxiety levels can make sensations feel more intense, even if the treatment itself is mild. Practising relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or guided meditation, can help calm your nerves before your appointment.

Communicate openly with your practitioner about any discomfort or concerns. Many clinics offer comfort measures such as cooling systems or short breaks between passes. Staying relaxed allows the practitioner to work efficiently, leading to a smoother, more comfortable RF microneedling experience overall.

Before You Go…

If you’re considering RF microneedling treatment but are still unsure about the level of pain or recovery involved, remember that comfort depends largely on preparation, technique, and the practitioner’s expertise. 

Most patients describe the treatment as manageable, with sensations that are temporary and well worth the long-term rejuvenation results. Taking the time to understand what to expect, and choosing a skilled specialist,will ensure your experience is both safe and rewarding.

About the Institute of Medical Physics

The Institute of Medical Physics (IMP) is a leading UK centre specialising in advanced aesthetic laser science and non-invasive rejuvenation. Based in King’s Cross with clinics across North London and Essex, IMP is recognised for its scientific approach to skin health and its commitment to clinical safety.

Under the guidance of Dr. Emanuel Paleco, IMP offers a comprehensive range of evidence-based treatments, including RF microneedling, Pico laser, Thulium 1927 nm laser, and fractional CO₂ resurfacing. Every protocol is designed to enhance skin tone, firmness, and radiance using precise, research-driven methods.

Experience the IMP difference, where innovation meets expertise to create natural, measurable skin transformation. Book a consultation today to discover how tailored RF microneedling can help you achieve firmer, smoother, and more youthful skin.