Potenza™ RF Microneedling can cause some discomfort, but most patients find it very tolerable. During treatment, you may feel pressure, prickling, warmth or brief sensitivity as the microneedles enter the skin and radiofrequency energy is delivered.
Everyone's pain tolerance is different, and how the treatment feels can also vary depending on the area being treated and your customized treatment settings.
What Does Potenza™ RF Microneedling Feel Like?
Potenza™ RF Microneedling typically feels like a combination of light pressure, prickling and warmth. Unlike traditional microneedling, Potenza™ also delivers radiofrequency energy through the microneedles, so you may notice a warm sensation as each area is treated.
The sensation is temporary, and your provider will check in with you throughout your treatment to help keep you comfortable.
How Painful Is RF Microneedling?
There is no single RF microneedling pain level that applies to everyone. Some people experience only mild discomfort, while others may find certain areas more sensitive.
Topical numbing cream is applied before treatment to help reduce discomfort. At LaserAway, the numbing cream sits for about 30 minutes before the treatment begins.
Dr. Will Kirby, Chief Medical Officer, LaserAway, and Board-Certified Dermatologist, explains, "It's a little bit uncomfortable but it's very tolerable… you numb for 15 to 30 minutes in advance."
You may still notice some prickling or warmth during treatment, but the numbing cream helps make the experience more comfortable.
Does Potenza™ RF Microneedling Hurt More in Certain Areas?
Yes, discomfort can vary by treatment area. According to a 2026 systematic review of radiofrequency microneedling, reported pain varied across treatment areas, although individual sensitivity and treatment settings can also affect how the procedure feels.
Potenza™ treatments can be customized with different needle depths and RF settings depending on the area being treated. Jeisys, the manufacturer of Potenza™, notes that treatment depth is adjusted by treatment site and that applying the same RF energy to a smaller area can result in a more intense sensation, which is why settings should be carefully selected.
How can I make the treatment more comfortable?
Following LaserAway's pre-care instructions can help reduce irritation and keep your skin comfortable before treatment. Avoid irritating skincare products, prolonged sun exposure, and tanning in the days before your appointment.
On the day of treatment, arrive with clean, product-free skin. If the treatment area has dense or coarse hair, shave the day before with a clean razor and moisturizing shaving cream to help reduce irritation.
Can I Take Tylenol or Pain Medication Before RF Microneedling?
Talk with your LaserAway treatment provider before taking Tylenol, another pain reliever or any medication specifically for your appointment. Your provider can tell you what is appropriate based on your health history, medications and treatment plan.
For many patients, the topical numbing used before treatment is enough to make Potenza™ manageable without additional pain medication.
What Does Potenza™ RF Microneedling Feel Like After Treatment?
As Dr. Will Kirby explains, "Afterwards you might be a little bit red, you might feel a little bit of heat, and you might have a little swelling for about 24 hours."
Redness, swelling, and sensitivity generally begin to subside within about 72 hours. To help minimize irritation, avoid direct heat and sweating for the first 24 hours, then avoid irritating skincare products and scrubbing for at least three days.
How Long Does Soreness Last After RF Microneedling?
Your skin may feel similar to a mild sunburn while it begins to recover. These effects are typically temporary.
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your LaserAway treatment specialist, and contact your provider if you experience significant or unexpected pain or other concerning symptoms.
Explore Potenza™ RF Microneedling at LaserAway
Curious what Potenza™ RF Microneedling may feel like for your treatment area? Schedule a complimentary consultation with a LaserAway clinician to discuss what to expect and whether the treatment fits your needs.
References
- Kumar N, Suh DH, Lee SJ, Kasif SA, Carruthers JDA. Radiofrequency Microneedling for Facial Rejuvenation: A Systematic Review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2026;25(4):e70845. National Library of Medicine
