Secret™ RF Fractional RF Microneedling System (Used Unit)
Cutera
Aesthetic medical deviceFractional radiofrequency microneedling platform
Certifications
- Secret RF is marketed as a professional aesthetic/dermatologic RF microneedling device by Cutera and is subject to medical device regulations in applicable jurisdictions (e.g. FDA clearance in the United States and conformity assessment in relevant international markets).
- Exact regulatory classification and certification (e.g. CE mark class and notified body) may vary by model/version and region; verification with Cutera or local regulatory databases is recommended before purchase or clinical use.
- Clinics using the device must comply with local regulations covering medical/aesthetic devices, operator training, infection control, sharps disposal and patient safety.
- Secret RF is marketed as a professional aesthetic/dermatologic RF microneedling device by Cutera and is subject to medical device regulations in applicable jurisdictions (e.g. FDA clearance in the United States and conformity assessment in relevant international markets).
- Exact regulatory classification and certification (e.g. CE mark class and notified body) may vary by model/version and region; verification with Cutera or local regulatory databases is recommended before purchase or clinical use.
- Clinics using the device must comply with local regulations covering medical/aesthetic devices, operator training, infection control, sharps disposal and patient safety.
Fractional radiofrequency microneedling platform
Description
Secret™ RF by Cutera is a fractional radiofrequency (RF) microneedling system designed for tissue coagulation and hemostasis to stimulate and remodel collagen from within the dermis. It delivers precisely controlled RF energy through an array of insulated microneedles at adjustable depths to address common skin concerns on the face and body—including fine lines, wrinkles, photodamage, scars, stretch marks and skin laxity—with little to no downtime. The unit in context is a pre-owned system, approximately 3 years old, described as in like-new condition with an estimated total of around 30 treatment uses.
Bnefits
- Combines microneedling with fractional radiofrequency energy for synergistic dermal remodeling and collagen stimulation.
- Adjustable needle penetration (typically ~0.5–3.5 mm on standard Secret RF handpieces) to target multiple skin layers and customise treatments for different indications and anatomical areas.
- Fractional delivery of RF energy helps spare the epidermis, supporting quicker recovery and minimal downtime.
- Indicated for a wide range of concerns including wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, other scars, enlarged pores, stretch marks and general skin laxity on face and body.
- Gold-plated or insulated microneedle cartridges (depending on configuration) optimise energy delivery and reduce risk of epidermal overheating.
- Suitable for most skin types, including darker phototypes, when used with appropriate settings.
- Multi-handpiece / multi-tip options (e.g. 25-pin and 64-pin) to treat both smaller, delicate areas and larger body zones efficiently.
- From a business perspective, RF microneedling devices such as Secret RF are associated with high patient demand and recurring treatment courses, supporting practice revenue streams.
- Used unit described as low-usage (around 30 treatments over 3 years), implying limited wear on core RF generator and handpieces compared with typical high-volume clinic use.
Indications
- Non-surgical skin rejuvenation and revitalisation of the face, neck and body.
- Improvement of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Treatment of atrophic acne scars and other textural scarring.
- Reduction of stretch marks (striae).
- Improvement of skin laxity and crepey skin.
- Refinement of enlarged pores and uneven skin texture.
- General improvement in skin tone, firmness and dermal collagen quality.
- Use in aesthetic and dermatology practices by appropriately trained medical professionals, following local regulatory and manufacturer guidance.
Composition
- Console housing containing RF generator electronics, control interface (touchscreen) and power management components.
- Fractional RF microneedling handpiece(s) designed to accept disposable microneedle tip cartridges (e.g. 25-pin and 64-pin tips).
- Microneedle cartridges featuring arrays of fine, conductive needles (often gold-plated and partially insulated) for controlled RF energy delivery into the dermis.
- Integrated handpiece cabling and connectors to link the RF generator with the applicators.
- Footswitch (on some configurations) for operator-controlled RF pulse delivery.
- Internal cooling and power circuitry engineered to deliver stable RF output at aesthetic treatment parameters.
- Mobile cart or stand (depending on configuration) to support console and handpieces.
Formulation
- Device type: Fractional radiofrequency microneedling platform for professional aesthetic and dermatologic use.
- Typical RF frequency: approximately 2 MHz (per commonly published Secret RF technical specifications for current models).
- Adjustable needle depth: approximately 0.5–3.5 mm for facial/standard tips; some body-focused configurations allow deeper penetration on body applicators.
- Treatment tip configurations: commonly 25-pin and 64-pin microneedle cartridges, with selectable non-insulated and semi-insulated needle designs depending on treatment indication.
- Energy delivery: fractionated RF pulses through microneedle arrays, with adjustable power, pulse duration and pattern to tailor coagulation and heating profiles.
- User interface: console-mounted touchscreen providing parameter control (depth, power, pulse time, tip type) and treatment presets.
- Power requirements: mains-powered aesthetic device (specific voltage/frequency dependent on region and model).
- This specific unit: used, approximately 3 years in service, total reported usage around 30 treatment sessions (low utilisation for this class of equipment).
Packaging
- As a pre-owned capital device, supplied as a complete Secret RF system including main console and at least one RF microneedling handpiece; inclusion of accessories such as footswitch, trolley/cart, and starter set of disposable tips depends on the reseller.
- Original manufacturer packaging may not be present for a used unit; shipment is typically via protective crate or padded shipping solution arranged by the reseller or buyer.
- New consumables (sterile disposable microneedle tips and any additional accessories) must be sourced separately from authorised Cutera distributors or compatible suppliers.
- Documentation for a used system should ideally include operator manual, installation guide and service/maintenance records where available.
Usage
- Only trained and authorised medical or aesthetic professionals should operate the device, in accordance with local regulations and Cutera’s official instructions for use.
- Before first use or after relocation, ensure the console has been installed, calibrated and safety-checked by a qualified engineer or authorised Cutera service provider.
- Connect the RF microneedling handpiece to the console and confirm that the correct tip type and size are recognised or selected in the user interface.
- For each patient, open a new sterile, single-use microneedle cartridge and attach it securely to the handpiece, maintaining aseptic technique.
- Assess the patient’s skin concerns, medical history and contraindications; obtain informed consent and take baseline photographs as per clinic protocol.
- Cleanse and prepare the treatment area; apply topical anaesthetic cream if appropriate and allowed under local regulations, then remove it thoroughly prior to treatment.
- Select appropriate treatment parameters (needle depth, RF power, pulse duration, number of passes, tip type) based on indication, skin type and anatomical area, following manufacturer and evidence-based guidelines.
- Apply the handpiece perpendicular to the skin and deliver RF microneedling pulses systematically across the treatment zone, overlapping slightly as recommended; monitor patient comfort and skin response throughout.
- After treatment, apply appropriate post-procedure skincare (e.g. soothing cream, bland emollient, broad-spectrum sunscreen) and provide detailed aftercare instructions, including sun protection and avoidance of irritants.
- Dispose of used microneedle tips as clinical sharps immediately after each treatment; disinfect handpieces and console surfaces according to infection-control policies and manufacturer recommendations.
- Schedule follow-up sessions as clinically indicated (commonly a series of 3–4 treatments spaced ~4–6 weeks apart) and monitor patient outcomes over several months.
- For this used system, ensure that all software updates, safety checks and preventive maintenance recommended by Cutera have been completed, and verify availability of service support in the buyer’s region before clinical deployment.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless local regulations and risk–benefit assessment explicitly allow treatment.
- Presence of active skin infection, open wounds, inflammatory dermatoses or compromised barrier at the proposed treatment site.
- History of keloid formation or abnormal wound healing in the treatment area, unless carefully evaluated and treated with caution.
- Implanted electronic devices such as pacemakers, defibrillators or certain metal implants in or near the treatment zone (RF energy may interfere with device function).
- Severe cardiac disease or other serious systemic conditions where RF procedures are considered unsafe.
- Use of isotretinoin within a time window specified by clinical guidance (commonly within the last 6–12 months) due to impaired wound healing risk.
- Active herpes simplex lesions in the treatment area (unless prophylaxis and specific protocols are followed).
- Recent procedures (e.g. deep chemical peels, ablative laser resurfacing) or significant sunburn at the intended treatment site.
- Known allergy or sensitivity to topical anaesthetics or post-treatment products used as part of the protocol.
- Any other condition listed as a contraindication in the official Cutera Secret RF Instructions for Use or local professional guidelines.
Adverse Effects
- Common, usually transient effects: erythema (redness), edema (swelling), mild pinpoint bleeding, and a sunburn-like sensation immediately post-procedure, typically resolving within hours to a few days.
- Temporary bruising or petechiae, particularly in more vascular areas or in patients taking medications that affect coagulation.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly in darker skin types or when inadequate sun protection is used post-procedure.
- Rare blistering, scabbing or superficial burns if energy delivery or technique is inappropriate for the skin type or area treated.
- Infection risk at needle entry sites if aseptic technique and aftercare are inadequate.
- Very rare risk of scarring or textural irregularities with overly aggressive settings or improper technique.
- Potential temporary exacerbation of acne or folliculitis in predisposed individuals.
- As with any device, malfunctioning hardware or damaged handpieces may pose additional safety risks; regular maintenance and prompt servicing are essential.
Storage Conditions
- Install and operate the device in a clean, dry, clinical environment with stable temperature and humidity, within the operating range specified by Cutera.
- Avoid exposure of the console and handpieces to direct sunlight, excessive heat, dust or corrosive chemicals.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the console and do not obstruct cooling vents.
- When not in use, power down the system following manufacturer recommendations and cover or store handpieces to protect them from impact and contamination.
- Store unused sterile microneedle tips in their original packaging at room temperature in a dry location, away from direct sunlight and moisture, observing their expiry dates.
- For a used system awaiting installation, transport and store in protective packaging to prevent mechanical shock, vibration or water ingress.
Duration
Typical treatment times range from approximately 20\u201330 minutes for partial face procedures to 45\u201360 minutes for full face or larger body areas, depending on indication and number of passes. Courses often involve 3\u20134 sessions spaced about 4\u20136 weeks apart, with maintenance sessions as needed.
Onset
Initial improvements in skin texture and tone are often observed within a few weeks after the first or second session, with progressive collagen remodeling and more pronounced results typically developing over 3\u20136 months following completion of a full treatment series.













