When it comes to my skincare routine, I’m not quite as concerned about fighting an anti-aging battle, as I am about implementing healthy maintenance strategies. I’m a firm believer that prevention is the best treatment, so when it comes to the health of my skin, I’m drawn to habits and tools that strengthen my skin barrier, stimulate blood flow, and support collagen production. One of my new favorite maintenance tools is the Tripolar STOP X ROSE.
STOP X ROSE uses radio frequency technology to heat the superficial (dermal) and deep (hypodermal) layers of the skin, in order to encourage collagen and elastin production. Specifically, radio frequency takes advantage of the fact that mild heat shock can encourage fibroblast activity in the skin. Fibroblasts are the principal cell type in the dermis, which secrete collagen and elastin proteins; more collagen and elastin means smoother, fuller, more lifted skin.
TriPollar takes an innovative approach to radio frequency application, using their thermal mapping technology to measure an accurate temperature of the skin, determine the optimal temperature for treatment, and control the heating process. The result is an individually optimized treatment experience every time.
I’ve been using the STOP X ROSE for about three months now, and I find my skin looks fresher and firmer with consistent use. Transparently, I was hesitant to make the purchase initially, because (as of the publishing of this post) the device is not actually cleared by the FDA for use on darker skin tones. “Darker” in this context refers to tones past Fitzpatrick skin types 2-4, and I land somewhere around 5 or 6.
TriPollar devices thus far are approved for use on skin types 2-4, due to the limited clinical studies that were performed for their FDA certification. This means that, despite their own expertise and testing, TriPollar cannot publish approval for darker skin tones. That being said, I was swayed to try the STOP X ROSE after a helpful Customer Support rep broke down why the device is in fact suitable for every skin type. Reason being, radio frequency penetrates to the dermis without interacting with the epidermis, where melanin is synthesized. This means that – unlike with lasers – there’s no light being absorbed by melanin, there’s no burn, and there’s no post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from trauma. That makes radio frequency a much safer option for darker skin tones. Major caveat: radio frequency used in conjunction with laser technology, while generally safe for lighter complexions, can be harmful for darker skin tones. TriPollar does not utilize laser technology.
I’ll be posting a TriPollar review on my @CLNSlateWellness TikTok soon, but let me know if you’ve tried any TriPollar radio frequency devices!