Is this a fake RF microneedling machine (Secret RF)? (Photo)

Question

I was treated yesterday with this device. The doctor told me that it was Secret RF but it doesn't look like the machines I have seen pictures of online. I also found what looks like the same device on a Chinese wholesale site for only $1000. Would a machine like this even have disposable needle tips? The doctor told me he was using a fresh disposable cartridge. I am worried I have been treated with one of these non-FDA approved devices - what should I do? Thank you.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, acne scars need a combination approach for long-term improvement. Everyone has a unique pattern of acne scarring, and most people have various types of scars, so we create a tailored treatment plan for each patient. Generally speaking, we often use:
- Injectable fillers like Bellafill and Sculptra (with or without subcision) for atrophic, indented scars. - Subcision for depressed, tethered scars. - Vascular lasers like Yellow laser, Aerolase, excel V, or IPL for redness or thick acne scars. - Lasers such as Fraxel, Erbium, CO2 or fractional radiofrequency (Venus Viva, Skinfinity, Intensif microneedling RF) for textural issues and superficial scarring. - TCA CROSS and punch excision for deep ice pick scars and narrow box car scars.- All lasers are combined with microneedling/PRP to improve the results and accelerate your healing time. 
For darker skin types, it is important to avoid strong lasers such as CO2/Erbium and Fraxel as they can cause hyperpigmentation. Instead, scars in darker skin types can be improved with a combination of microneedling RF (Fractora, Intensif, Infini), Aerolase or Laser Genesis, microneedling with PRP, skin lightening, peels like Cosmelan, and a proper skin care protocol (hydroquinone, vitamin c, kojic acid, azelaic acid, retinol). Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Neda Vanden Bosch, MD · Answer

I have the Secret RF device and this is NOT it. There are many devices you can purchase on line from China. Alibaba is another website physicians can use when trying to cut corners. I do not know of any RF devices that have reuseable tips. They are all disposable.Most of these devices are not FDA approved. I would question the office. Non FDA devices may still give you results but I am not sure I would trust them to do any further treatments on me.

Kwasi Debra, MD, MBA - Account Suspended · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry. I can confirm that the picture you show is definitely not Secret RF. I am also familiar with this Chinese machine. It uses disposable tips. I am not aware of any side by side comparison of the effectiveness. Buyer beware!

Is this a fake RF microneedling machine (Secret RF)? (Photo)

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Is this a fake RF microneedling machine (Secret RF)? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Microneedling

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.