If you’re considering skin-tightening radiofrequency treatments, chances are you’ve come across Oligio (we’ve talked about it here at EL too!). One of the ways this treatment stands out is its ability to work on all skin tones and types – even sensitive or darker skin – thanks to its unique ‘smart deep’ radiofrequency technology. To dive deeper into how this works, we sit down with experienced dermatologist DR ANG POR of Dermatology Associates Skin and Laser Specialists to break it all down.
Firstly, how does our skin age over time?
As we age, there are changes in all three layers of the skin: the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous fat layer. Epidermal changes include a decrease in the turnover of new skin cells, thickening of the top layer of dead cells, roughness and dullness. There is also an increase in pigmentation (such as ‘sun spots’) and the development of growths like comedones, milia, keratoses (‘age warts’), skin tags and enlarged oil glands.
Meanwhile, dermal changes involve the deterioration of collagen quality and a decrease in new collagen production and turnover. This results in overall thinning of the dermis, loss of elasticity, increased skin laxity and wrinkles.
Lastly, subcutaneous fat changes can include either a loss of fat – leading to a sunken appearance, especially on the forehead and temples – or an increase in fat in certain areas, such as under-eye bags and the double chin.
Among these, the changes in the dermis, specifically the decrease and deterioration of collagen, cause the most significant and visible signs of ageing.
How does Oligio’s radiofrequency help reverse these changes?
Oligio’s ‘smart deep’ radiofrequency technology achieves deep tissue tightening by delivering high radiofrequency energy to the deep dermis, fat and fibrous bands, stimulating new collagen production. This energy causes an immediate contraction of the collagen-rich fibres in the dermal layer. This leads to visible skin tightening right after treatment. However, the full results develop over three to six months. That’s because Oligio relies on the body’s natural healing process to produce long-lasting skin-tightening effects.
Can you explain how this smart deep radiofrequency works? How does it differ from traditional RF?
Oligio’s smart deep RF is the latest monopolar radiofrequency technology designed to deliver bulk heating deep into the skin, providing a customised treatment for skin lifting and tightening. Compared to traditional RF treatments, there are a few differences:
- Treatment tips: Oligio offers specialised tips for different areas of the body, such as an eye tip for delicate areas and a face tip for the cheeks and neck. Traditional RF treatments typically use a single applicator for the entire body.
- Treatment time: Oligio sessions are generally faster than traditional RF treatments. Depending on the area being treated, sessions often last under 30 to 40 minutes.
- Comfort: Oligio is designed to be more comfortable than traditional RF treatments. It features an intelligent cooling spray system and a 3D vibration system. The cooling agent can be adjusted as needed, for example pre-cooling before, during and after each shot. Meanwhile, evenly spraying of coolant throughout the treatment maintains a safe and comfortable skin temperature.
- Safety: Oligio integrates multiple advanced safety features, including contact cooling, real-time temperature monitoring, skin impedance checks and a pressure sensor to ensure a high level of patient safety.
- Downtime: Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after an Oligio treatment, as it involves minimal discomfort and virtually no recovery time.
- Results: Traditional RF treatments often require multiple sessions to achieve visible results. Oligio, however, generally delivers results in fewer sessions due to its enhanced energy output and advanced technology.
How does Oligio specifically target the deeper layers of the skin?
Unlike laser and light treatments, Oligio produces bulk heating through tissue resistance (impedance) within the various layers of the skin. This resistance generates an electrical current. It is then converted into thermal energy, effectively targeting deep layers of the skin, including the dermis, fat and fibrous tissue.
Is it true that this skin-tightening radiofrequency treatment can be customised to work on all skin tones and types?
Yes, Oligio is suitable for all skin tones, unlike certain lasers or IPL treatments that can carry a risk of burns and hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones. The smart deep technology here has specially designed safety features like contact gas cooling to soothe the skin, real-time skin impedance checks and a temperature sensor. These allow for a safe, precisely controlled procedure, reducing the risk of overheating.
The most common treatment areas are the lower face and neck. But the upper face, including droopy eyelids and eyebrows, can also be treated. For areas with more laxity, we can customise additional treatment shots. For patients with sensitive skin, the contact cooling and vibration settings can be increased to enhance comfort during the procedure.
How does it compare to other technologies like fractional lasers or microneedling radiofrequency?
Fractional lasers and microneedling are effective but they typically involve some downtime, with around a week of redness and scabbing. Both treatments puncture the epidermis to reach the dermis and stimulate new collagen formation. Microneedling uses small needles, while fractional lasers use laser light. In contrast, Oligio delivers volumetric heat into the dermis, fat and fibrous bands without causing any injury to the epidermis, meaning there is no downtime.
Would you recommend combining this skin-tightening radiofrequency treatment with other treatments for enhanced results?
Yes, Oligio can be effectively combined with topical anti-ageing treatments. They include HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound), filler injections, bio-remodelling injections, botulinum toxin injections, lasers and intense pulsed light for a holistic improvement in skin appearance and texture.
More about the doctor
Dr Ang Por is the co-founder of Dermatology Associates Skin and Laser Specialists. She has special interests in skin cancers, dermatologic surgery, lasers and aesthetic procedures. She manages both adult and children skin conditions. Prior to setting up Dermatology Associates in 2005, she was the Chief of the Dermatological Surgery and Laser Unit at the National Skin Centre (NSC).
Dermatology Associates Skin and Laser Specialists
- #15-05/06 Paragon, 290 Orchard Road
- #11-01 Novena Medical Center, 10 Sinaran Drive
- #12-02 Farrer Park Medical Centre Connexion, 1 Farrer Park Station Road
dermassoc.com.sg | appt@dermassoc.com.sg
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