Morpheus8 is the latest generation of microneedling that combines a deeper penetration of needles with radiofrequency (RF) energy… and yes, it is available at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care. Although Morpheus8 is typically used in a manner similar to traditional microneedling—to improve various common skin conditions like laxity, lines, and dullness—a recent study explored whether it might be an effective treatment for cellulite. Cellulite is a harmless yet often embarrassing condition that effects over 90 percent of women and many men. Topicals are typically futile for helping with cellulite and other treatments, such as minor surgeries, can be painful and leave incision scars.
A multicenter clinical trial showed that improvement was possible when using Morpheus8 on the upper thighs at both the dermal and subcutaneous level. “It is proposed that the microneedle RF induces a wound healing response at the level of the subcuticular junction or dermis, potentially disrupting the excessive tension placed by perpendicular fibrous septa,” says the research team. Morpheus8 has been shown to stimulate collagen, elastin, and even hyaluronic acid (HA) production. Adding in RF further enhances dermal healing by sending the energy to the exact desired depth needed to alleviate signs of cellulite.
All About Morpheus8
Morpheus8 already has FDA clearance for use in dermatological and some surgical procedures. It comes with a 40-pin tip able to reach a depth of 6mm, deeper than any other microneedling device on the market. Originally, it was intended to stimulate contraction and, in turn, collagen formation while also affecting the fibro-septal network and adipose tissue. However, prior to this study, no research team looked at Morpheus8 as a potential tool for cellulite treatment. Most people get microneedling, including Morpheus8, on their face and perhaps decolletage, but technically you can have a microneedling treatment anywhere it is desired—including the thighs or buttocks where cellulite most often occurs.
“Our objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of [Morpheus8] at a depth of up to 6mm for treatment of the thighs to improve cellulite appearance, skin laxity, and subcutaneous fat deposits,” explains the researchers. Participants in the study self-assessed their results at every visit using a variety of scales. The first patient was a 57-year-old woman with moderate to severe cellulite on her thighs and buttocks. She received just two treatments spaced one month apart. During her nine-month follow-up, she said she was satisfied with moderate improvement while her physician ranked the improvement at 25 – 49 percent with “visible tightening and firmness.”
Case Study Reports on Morpheus
Another patient was a 50-year-old woman with similar cellulite presentation. She also received two treatments one month apart. At the publication of this study, she had only undergone follow-ups at months one and three (with the nine-month follow-up pending). At three months, she said she was “very satisfied” with the “marked improvement.” Her physician reported similar results, stating the improvement was at 50 – 74 percent with “very visible tightening and firmness.” These case studies led the researchers to conclude that Morpheus8 may be a useful tool in decreasing signs of cellulite.
Morpheus8 has both mechanical and thermal effects on the skin, helping with laxity and rhytids. It is more direct and controlled than other types of microneedling, allowing for a thermal injury at precise and controlled depths. Unfortunately, there is little literature that explores how microneedling and especially Morpheus8 may affect cellulite, but it is well-known that microneedling can be used on any part of the face or body. There were certain limitations to this study, including the small number of participants, but it sets a solid foundation in supporting the need for future studies. Until then, if you are interested in seeing how Morpheus8 may help with your skin concerns—including cellulite—you can schedule a complimentary consultation with a skin care expert.
Many skin conditions, like cellulite, are technically harmless but can negatively affect your social life and mental/emotional health. Start Morpheus8 treatments to see visible results by the summer. Contact Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today to schedule your complimentary consultation by calling the office or completing the online contact form.