The non-invasive MedSpa treatment Charlotteans are using to reverse aging
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Produced in partnership with Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery.

Photo: Andy Weber/Axios
Scarlet SRF Microneedling is a popular medspa treatment with anti-aging benefits.
Scarlet delivers SRF (short-pulse radio frequency) energy through microneedles to stimulate dermal collagen and elastin.
- In other words: Tiny, electrically-charged needles are pressed into the skin hundreds of times, resulting in tighter, lifted skin.
Okay, but: It’s really not as scary as it sounds. Scarlet is minimally-invasive and one of the most popular medspa procedures done at Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery in Ballantyne.
To learn more about Scarlet SRF Microneedling, we talked to the estheticians at Criswell, Stefanie DiTomas & Marissa Archie.
How does Scarlet work?
This delivery of SRF energy stimulates dermal collagen and elastin, so it can be used to treat a wide variety of concerns, including:
- Fine lines and wrinkles.
- Acne scarring.
- Texture and tone of the skin.
- Loose or sagging skin.
Is there any downtime?
No, there’s not. Directly after the treatment, the skin may be pink to red (similar to a sunburn), but this dissipates over a few hours.
- Patients should avoid direct sun for a bit, but otherwise can return to their normal activities.
Are there any risks to getting Scarlet?
What you need to know: Scarlet is a safe and effective treatment for almost anyone.
- Unlike other devices, Scarlet is unique in its ability to safely treat areas that are commonly avoided with other devices, such as the eyelids, lips, and hairline.
Okay, but: Scarlet SRF Microneedling should be administered by experienced hands, so you should look for licensed estheticians and providers with advanced training.
We also talked to a Criswell Scarlet SRF client about her results.
Why did you want this treatment?
I was looking for an efficient way to restore my aging skin with little downtime.
In particular, I was hoping it would restore some elasticity and create more firmness around my mouth.
Was it painful?
The treatment was very tolerable, especially with the numbing cream.
Take note: It does get a bit hot, and some areas are more sensitive than others. I used a fan to cool my face and had a squeeze ball for comfort.
What were your results like?
Right after, my skin was glowy and pink. It felt a bit like a sunburn, but that feeling dissipated quickly.
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Then, my skin looked fabulous! It looked tighter, smoother, younger and healthier.
The deets: I had three Scarlet treatments and I could tell that the results built on each other.
- Now, it’s been four months since my last treatment and my skin still looks very healthy and firm.
Learn more about Scarlet SRF Microneedling with Criswell & Criswell.
Produced in partnership with Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery.

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