In the realm of advanced aesthetic treatments, Morpheus8 has emerged as a leading procedure that combines the power of micro needling (see my post about micro needling with Botox HERE) and radiofrequency energy to rejuvenate and revitalize the skin. Or at least this is what I have heard from several practitioners before deciding to give it a try myself. It targets a variety of skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. My main concerns were fine lines and discoloration due to sun damage and hormonal changes after having my girls, so it sounded like I was a good candidate for this. The procedure utilizes a matrix of micro-pins that penetrate the skin’s surface, coupled with radiofrequency energy that delivers controlled heat to deeper layers. Similar to micro needling, except with more of a quick grab of the skin. This dual-action approach stimulates collagen production and promotes skin tightening, resulting in a smoother, more youthful complexion. You will start seeing results in about two weeks, with full results 6 weeks after your last session. It is recommended that you do at least 3 sessions to really see great results.
Consultation:
You should always begin any treatment journey with a comprehensive consultation with a skilled practitioner. I have gone to Allure Rejuvenation in Walnut Creek for close to 3 years now. Mainly for Botox and Dysport and I have tried micro needling and a bit of filler (though decided filler I just not for me. Another bonus point for Morpheus8 – part of the results is more plump looking skin due to better collagen production after the deep heat stimulation without the use of injectables ) Be sure to share your own expectations and concerns with your practitioner, so that you are 100% sure this procedure is right for you.
What I liked about it, going into my first round, was that it wasn’t “scary” like filler was for me. It was more like “ok if I don’t see results, oh well that sucks, but at least my face won’t look any different” I’m big on doing things in as much of a natural way as possible and nudging my body to produce its own collagen etc naturally rather than do more invasive procedures and injectables. Though of course whatever works best for you is great! This is just a personal choice. I have heard that Morpheus8 is quite painful, but for me this wasn’t at the top of my concerns/questions because I have a high pain tolerance and can sort of just “take it”, if it’s for a good cause so to speak. More on the pain levels later, as this is a concern for a lot of people and the biggest question I got when I posted on my IG stories after my first session. (now saved as a highlight, which you can see HERE)
(photo taken immediately post session)
Preparation:
On the day of the procedure, your skin is thoroughly cleansed, and a numbing cream is applied to minimize any discomfort. (Prepare to wait for about 60 minutes while the numbing takes place) Allure Rejuvenation uses a two step approach to their numbing, utilizing a fast acting numbing cream as well as a slower, longer lasting one, to make the experience extra comfortable all the way through. Let me tell you, boy did I feel a difference! They were using a regular numbing technique for my first round and the new 2 cream numbing the second and um, yeah, definitely ask for the combo! I am not going to lie, it was still painful. Sort of like well, little needles punching through your skin over and over again and there’s a scent of burning flesh as this is happening (I can really paint a picture can’t I lol) I imagine it’s similar to getting a tattoo but instead of the needle dragging along your skin, it punches like a stapler would. I know I know this all sounds very scary now, but the pain is very tolerable (with the two numbing creams!! DO NOT do this, if your practitioner is not offering to numb your face first. That is a huge red flag and frankly it will then be intolerable) and the procedure goes very fast. First we did the neck – 2 swipe throughs. Then the cheeks and jaw, 2 swipes per area, then the forehead, finishing under the eyes. A different, thinner needle is used for that, more sensitive skin area. All in all I would say it took about 30 minutes + the hour waiting for the numbing cream to kick in.
Recovery:
One of the remarkable aspects of Morpheus8 is its minimal downtime. I bruise very easily and have quite sensitive skin all around so I was definitely worried about having redness and bruising but aside from having little bumps (almost like chicken skin) for the next 5 days or so (only on my neck, not entire face) and some redness for two days, I had no issues. Though I wanted to give my skin a break for as long as possible after the treatment, I could have definitely worn make up comfortably two days later. Now this was also because I was diligent with my post care.
Post-Care Guidelines for Optimal Results
Hydration: Keeping the skin well-hydrated is crucial for the healing process. Drink plenty of water and use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer as recommended by the practitioner. I used this cellulose mask the evening after the procedure and then this mask ongoing for the next few days to calm the redness and tenderness. Be sure to use a very mild cleanser, that won’t strip the skin. THIS one is my favorite, post procedure. Be very gentle while cleansing, since your skin will feel rough and sensitive to touch.
Sun Protection: Try as much as you can to stay out of the sun for a few days following your treatment but if you must go in the sun, be sure you are shielding the treated skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever you’re exposed to sunlight and wear a hat. I use Skin Ceuticals CE Ferulic under my SFP for extra protection and swear by it.
Avoid Harsh Products: In the days following the procedure, avoid using harsh skincare products that might irritate the healing skin. So nothing that exfoliates, no retinol. Stick to gentle cleansers and mild skincare formulations. Your practitioner should be able to recommend specific products and THIS is what I used after the procedure which I really liked.
Patience: The full benefits of Morpheus8 become noticeable as collagen production increases over the weeks following the treatment. Be patient and allow your skin time to rejuvenate naturally. I remember not really feeling a difference until I was putting on make-up one morning a few weeks later, looking closely in the mirror and went “oh wow, ok.” My skin was looking plumper, pores smaller, and it had kind of a glow it usually didn’t have. It was like “oh, cool I definitely see a difference!” and it made me so happy that it was my own body producing this surge of collagen. It was a subtle difference, that might not be super obvious in before/after photos, but you know your own face and can catch when something looks different.
Follow-Up: Depending on your specific goals and skin condition, your practitioner may recommend a series of Morpheus8 sessions for optimal results. Follow their advice for the best outcome. As I mentioned, for me it was 3 sessions, about 6 weeks apart from each other. Then you can do maintenance sessions every 5 to 6 months.
The main question I hope I have answered here is “would I recommend this procedure?” and the answer is “definitely, I would”. However, don’t go into expecting drastic results. This is a more subtle gradual change and that’s something you have to be mindful of, to keep your expectations realistic. However, like any snowball effect, this one builds on itself, showing that it will keep paying dividends if you keep up with the maintenance. The outcome is utilizing your own body’s ability to heal, to promote this surge of collagen production, giving you a more youthful appearance for the long term. I’d say that’s a big check mark on the “pro” list.
And a final note, to not take any procedure like this lightly. Please take the time to research practitioners in your area who are truly well educated on this and passionate about learning more. I do feel very lucky that I’ve been able to connect with a group at Allure Rejuvenation who truly value knowledge with innovation and take the time to do a lot of research before they offer a new procedure. That everything they offer is something they always try on the team and then conclude whether it is right for their patience. It’s truly a team effort there, which feels like there is a family around you, who have your best interest at heart. If you are in the Bay Area, I recommend connecting with Allure. I hope this was helpful and please feel free to DM me with any questions on IG or simply leave a comment here, if you have thoughts or questions.
