Next level

We take a first look at the Secret PRO, the laser–enhanced version of Cutera’s RF microneedling device

Following the popularity of its Secret RF radiofrequency microneedling device, US aesthetic technology manufacturer Cutera has developed an updated version – Secret PRO. Visitors to AM Live on 8-9 July will be among the first UK aesthetic practitioners to see it and have the opportunity to introduce the device into their clinic (see our show preview).

Whereas the original Secret RF blends fractional radiofrequency with adjustabledepth microneedling, the Secret PRO goes one step further and brings fractional CO2 laser into the mix. This means the device can be used to treat a wider range of indications including warts, blemishes, atrophic, burn and acne scars; striae, lentigos and fine lines and wrinkles, as well as addressing general photo-ageing and resurfacing. According to Cutera’s chief technology officer Michael Karavitis, this technology addition allows for optimal skin resurfacing alongside deep dermal remodelling: “While CO2 fractionally ablates the outermost layers of the epidermis, the RF reaches down into the deeper dermal layers and denatures the tissue surrounding the microneedles.

“With this unique combination of goldstandard technologies, the Secret PRO really enables users to treat the full thickness of the epidermis and dermis to stimulate neocollagenesis and increase hyaluronic acid production, providing patients with the radiant skin they demand.”

The device utilises a 100mm beam size to ensure minimal downtime and reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, in six patterns and nine modes to treat any area of the face or body. Deep acne scars and burn scars can be spot treated thanks to the i-stack repetitive stacking function which minimises damage to surrounding tissue.

While each procedure can be tailored to a patient’s specific indications and tolerance, Cutera has developed four protocols that can be marketed as standalone treatments – Refine, using just the RF microneedling; Ultra-Lite, a series of gentle, full-face micro peels; Ultra, more aggressive fractional CO2; and Revive, combining both technologies. Dr Ashish Bhatia, co-founder of Oak Dermatology and associate professor of Clinical Dermatology at Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, US, gives a practitioner’s point of view: “Whether you’re treating deep acne scars, just looking for a little firming or a micro peel, Secret PRO gives the flexibility to treat all kinds of patient needs.

“We are able to use the platform for nearly all of our patients. The microneedle RF system allows treatment of all skin types for remodelling and rejuvenation. The fractional CO2 is my go-to for micro peels as well as fractional resurfacing”.