Sublative is a proven corrective treatment designed to address significant surface inconsistencies and deeper concerns. It targets moderate to severe acne scars, deeper-set wrinkles, pigmented lesions, red and brown spots, and textural irregularities. This is achieved by delivering fractionated bipolar radiofrequency energy directly into the upper dermis via an array of multi-electrode pins. The surface of the skin undergoes thermal ablation, while surrounding non-ablated areas serve as a vital reservoir of cells. These untouched areas promote accelerated healing and rapid collagen production, leading to a complete re-texturising of the skin as new collagen accumulates, effectively padding out scar tissue, reducing laxity, and softening deeper wrinkles. Due to some minor associated downtime, thoughtful planning ahead is essential.
Why It's Recommended
Sublative is designed to encourage a more compact, better-organised and "younger" dermal matrix, alongside a more even epidermis and skin surface. These results consistently demonstrate a dramatic and notable reduction in deeper-set wrinkles, scarring, and coarser skin texture. It achieves this by encouraging a robust regeneration of collagen and elastin, which not only profoundly improves the skin's appearance but also enhances its underlying functions. Sublative is highly regarded for the long-lasting improvement it can make to the look of the skin, particularly scarring, often over a small number of treatments.
Expected Downtime
Sublative is associated with a downtime of approximately 7 days, during which side effects are typically mild. These may include temporary redness, itching, soreness, swelling, and skin peeling. Transient skin redness and swelling, along with sensations of heat or tingling, may persist for a few hours post-treatment but generally do not last longer.
A pink or red flush, resembling a minor sunburn, is common, often accompanied by a fine grid pattern stamped on the skin. Small scabs may also develop, typically appearing 24-72 hours after treatment and remaining for several days. It is crucial to refrain from touching, picking, or manually peeling flaking or scabbing skin; it will naturally slough away between 5-14 days. This natural process can be gently accelerated through in-studio enzyme treatments and LED Light Therapy as advised. As always, diligent sun care and mindful sun exposure are paramount, and the use of active ingredients such as retinol, AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), or BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) should be avoided for 72 hours post-treatment.
Recommended Treatments
While many clients observe results after just one treatment, for optimal and lasting improvements, a course of 3-4 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, is recommended. Following the initial course, a single touch-up session may be needed every 6-12 months, based on the individual's unique response and desired outcome.
Not every treatment described in our Notes is offered at every studio, and some aren't available in the US. See your studio's menu for what's offered where.
