Exion RF at SkinArtMD: Fractional RF + Microneedling for Next-Level Skin Renewal
If you've been doing the skincare deep-dive thing — researching microneedling, reading about radiofrequency, comparing devices on Reddit at midnight — Exion is probably the treatment that keeps popping up. And for good reason. It's one of the most advanced skin renewal platforms available, and at SkinArtMD at Metrotown, it's quickly become one of our most requested treatments.
Here's the full rundown on Exion RF, who it's for, and why our Burnaby clients are obsessed.
What Is Exion RF?
Exion is a dual-action fractional radiofrequency (RF) and microneedling device designed to remodel skin from the inside out. Unlike older RF devices that only work on the surface, Exion delivers targeted energy through ultra-fine needles directly into the deeper layers of your skin — where collagen and elastin actually live.
The result? Tighter, smoother, more even-toned skin with dramatically less downtime than ablative lasers.
The Science Behind It
Here's what happens during an Exion treatment:
- Microneedles penetrate the skin at precise, customizable depths — targeting the exact layer that needs remodeling
- Radiofrequency energy is delivered through those needles, creating controlled thermal zones in the dermis
- Your body's healing response kicks in — producing new collagen and elastin fibers over the following weeks and months
- Monopolar RF simultaneously heats deeper tissue, promoting additional tightening and volumetric support
Think of it as a two-pronged attack: the microneedles create micro-channels for surface renewal while the RF energy triggers deep structural remodeling. You're getting two treatments in one session.
What Does Exion Treat?
This is where Exion really shines — it's genuinely versatile:
- Fine lines and wrinkles — forehead, crow's feet, smile lines, neck lines
- Acne scars — including stubborn rolling and boxcar scars that don't respond to topical treatments
- Uneven skin texture — rough patches, enlarged pores, crepe-like skin
- Skin laxity — mild to moderate sagging, especially along the jawline and neck
- Stretch marks — yes, really — RF microneedling is one of the few treatments proven to improve them
- Hyperpigmentation — when combined with the right skincare protocol
Whether you're dealing with post-acne scarring from your teens or early signs of aging in your 30s, Exion can be tailored to your specific concerns.
The SkinArtMD Exion Experience
Step 1: Skin Assessment
Every Exion treatment at SkinArtMD begins with a thorough skin analysis. We evaluate your skin type, the depth and nature of your concerns, your skin's tolerance, and any previous treatments you've had. This isn't a cookie-cutter approach — we customize the needle depth, RF energy level, and treatment pattern for your skin.
Step 2: Preparation
We cleanse your skin thoroughly and apply a medical-grade topical numbing cream. This sits for about 20-30 minutes to ensure maximum comfort during the treatment. While you're numbing, we configure the Exion device to your custom settings.
Step 3: The Treatment
The treatment itself takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on the areas being treated. The device glides across your skin in systematic passes. You'll feel a warm, prickling sensation — most clients describe it as a 3-4/10 on the discomfort scale with the numbing cream.
Common treatment areas include:
- Full face — the most popular option for overall rejuvenation
- Neck and decolletage — excellent for crepey skin and horizontal lines
- Under-eye area — with specialized settings for this delicate zone
- Targeted scar treatment — focused passes on acne scarring or surgical scars
- Jawline and jowls — for tightening and contouring
Step 4: Post-Treatment Care
Immediately after, your skin will look red — like a moderate sunburn. We apply a calming serum and barrier repair cream. The redness typically subsides within 24-48 hours, and most clients are back to their normal routine (including makeup) within 2-3 days.
We'll send you home with specific aftercare instructions and recommend products to support your skin's healing process.
Downtime: What to Actually Expect
Let's be real about downtime — because managing expectations is our thing:
| Timeline | What You'll See |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | Redness, warmth, mild swelling — like a sunburn |
| Day 1-2 | Redness fading, skin feels tight and dry |
| Day 2-3 | Micro-crusting may appear (tiny dots where needles entered) |
| Day 3-5 | Peeling/flaking as skin renews itself |
| Day 5-7 | Fresh, glowy skin emerging |
| Week 2-4 | Continued improvement as collagen builds |
| Month 1-3 | Progressive tightening and texture refinement |
| Month 3-6 | Full results visible — peak collagen remodeling |
The beauty of Exion compared to ablative lasers? You're looking at 2-3 days of social downtime versus 7-14 days. For most of our Burnaby clients juggling work, life, and social commitments, that's a massive difference.
How Many Sessions Do You Need?
This depends on your goals and starting point:
- Mild texture concerns or maintenance: 1-2 sessions
- Moderate acne scarring or wrinkles: 3-4 sessions
- Significant scarring or skin laxity: 4-6 sessions
Sessions are typically spaced 4-6 weeks apart to allow your skin to complete its collagen remodeling cycle between treatments.
We'll create a customized treatment plan during your consultation and give you an honest assessment of how many sessions it will take to achieve your goals. No overselling — that's a promise.
Why Exion Over Other RF Microneedling Devices?
The medical aesthetics market has a lot of RF microneedling options. Here's what sets Exion apart:
- Dual RF delivery: Exion combines both bipolar (shallow) and monopolar (deep) radiofrequency in one treatment — most competitors only offer one or the other
- AI-assisted energy delivery: The device monitors tissue impedance in real-time and adjusts energy output for consistent, safe results
- Customizable depth: Needle depth adjustable from 0.5mm to 8mm, allowing precise targeting of different skin layers
- Built-in hyaluronic acid delivery: Exion can enhance absorption of topical serums through the microchannels it creates — amplifying your results
At SkinArtMD, we chose Exion specifically because it gives our practitioners the precision and versatility to treat a wide range of concerns effectively. The technology matters.
Combine Exion with Your Skin Strategy
Exion works beautifully as a standalone treatment, but it can be even more powerful as part of a comprehensive skin renewal plan. Our aesthetic specialists often recommend:
- HydraFacial 2 weeks before or after Exion for surface hydration and glow
- Skin boosters between Exion sessions for deep dermal hydration
- PRP therapy applied immediately after Exion treatment — the microchannels allow enhanced absorption
- Medical-grade skincare with retinoids and vitamin C to maintain and enhance results between sessions
- Neuromodulator treatments to prevent dynamic wrinkles from returning while Exion addresses the textural damage
Think of Exion as the heavy-lifter in your skin renovation — the deep remodeling treatment that other treatments support and enhance.
FAQs: What Our Burnaby Clients Ask Most
Q: Is Exion safe for all skin types? A: Yes — one of the major advantages of RF microneedling over laser treatments is that it's safe for all skin tones, including darker skin (Fitzpatrick IV-VI). The energy is delivered below the surface, so there's minimal risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Q: How does Exion compare to traditional microneedling? A: Traditional microneedling relies solely on the wound-healing response from the needle channels. Exion adds RF energy to that equation, which significantly amplifies collagen production and adds a skin-tightening component that needles alone can't achieve.
Q: Does it hurt? A: With our numbing protocol, most clients rate the discomfort at 3-4/10. The sensation is warm and prickly. Some areas (like the forehead and jawline) are more sensitive than others. We adjust settings throughout the treatment to keep you comfortable.
Q: Can I combine it with filler or Botox? A: Absolutely. We typically recommend waiting 2 weeks after injectables before doing Exion, or doing Exion first and waiting 2 weeks before injectables. We'll coordinate your treatment schedule during your consultation.
Q: When will I see results? A: You'll notice improved texture and glow within 1-2 weeks after your first session. However, the real magic happens over months as new collagen forms. Most clients see their best results 3-6 months after completing their treatment series.
Q: Is there anyone who shouldn't get Exion? A: Exion is not recommended for people with active skin infections, certain autoimmune conditions, pacemakers, or pregnancy. We screen for contraindications thoroughly during your consultation.
Book Your Exion Consultation
Ready to stop guessing and start actually transforming your skin? Book a consultation at SkinArtMD at Metrotown. We'll analyze your skin, discuss your goals, and create an Exion treatment plan designed to deliver real, lasting results.
Your skin has been through a lot. It's time to give it the upgrade it deserves.
SkinArtMD at Metrotown — Modern aesthetic medicine in Burnaby, BC. Serving Burnaby, Vancouver, New Westminster, Coquitlam, and Metro Vancouver.
