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3D Handpiece: Dual-Layer Technology for Full-Thickness Skin Rejuvenation

Understanding the Science Behind Skin Aging



Before diving into the technology, it is essential to understand what happens beneath the surface skin ages. The dermis—the skin’s supportive layer—is composed of two distinct layers: the papillary dermis (PD) and the reticular dermis (RD). Each contains specialized fibroblasts that produce different types of collagen, elastic fibers, and hyaluronic acid. 


The papillary dermis, though thin, plays a crucial role in maintaining youthful skin. Papillary fibroblasts (Fp) are responsible for maintaining the epidermis, the basement membrane zone (BMZ), and the dermis itself. In young skin, the papillary dermis exhibits a higher ratio of Type III to Type I collagen compared to the reticular dermis. Its elastic fibers are thinner and arrange perpendicularly toward the epidermis—a characteristic that diminishes with age. 


As aging progresses, papillary fibroblasts lose their distinctive characteristics and gradually transform into reticular fibroblasts (Fr). This transformation leads to several critical changes: the epidermis thins, the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ) flattens, elastic fibers in the papillary dermis disappear, and hyaluronic acid production significantly decreases. These changes weaken the bond between the epidermis and dermis, making aged skin more fragile and prone to damage. 


While reticular fibroblasts remain relatively stable with aging, papillary fibroblasts undergo profound functional alterations. This means that targeting only the reticular dermis—as many traditional treatments do—has inherent limitations. 


How Dual-Depth RF Provides Comprehensive Treatment

To achieve genuine full-thickness skin rejuvenation, both the papillary and reticular dermis must be addressed. More importantly, targeting the papillary dermis can rejuvenate the entire dermis, epidermis, and basement membrane zone—essentially reversing the cascade of aging at its source. 


This is where the 3D handpiece technology distinguishes itself from conventional RF microneedling approaches. Known as “DoubleTite” in Korea, this unique handpiece effectively addresses some of the most common skin issues that patients face. 


Introducing the 3D Needle RF

The 3D Needle RF handpiece employs dual-length microblade technology with built-in suction capability to enhance tissue contact and ensure consistent energy delivery. Its design reflects a fundamental understanding of dermal anatomy:


Long pins (0.8mm, 7 pins): Target the reticular dermis, which is rich in Type I collagen. This results in deep structural support and addresses tissue laxity. 


Short pins (0.3mm, 18 pins): Target the papillary dermis, which is rich in Type III collagen, thus improving skin texture, tone, and surface quality. 


This dual-length approach allows providers to stimulate both dermal layers simultaneously, creating independent coagulation zones with precise energy control. Critically, there is no thermal overlap between zones, ensuring safe, predictable results without collateral damage. 



The Hexagonal Advantage: Uniform Energy Distribution

The 3D Handpiece utilizes proprietary polygonal microblade technology rather than traditional needle configurations. This matters because energy distribution varies significantly based on electrode shape. Sharp, pointed electrodes concentrate RF energy at their tips, creating uneven thermal zones. 


The hexagonal polygonal design distributes energy more uniformly across the treatment area, producing consistent coagulation patterns and more predictable clinical outcomes. 


Clinical Case Study: The Split-Face

To validate that papillary dermis rejuvenation is the key to full-thickness skin rejuvenation, we conducted a compelling split-face clinical study. Patients scheduled for facelift surgery received 3D Needle RF treatment one month prior, with one side deliberately left untreated. 


After one month, histological analysis of the surgically removed skin revealed remarkable differences. The treated side demonstrated rejuvenation across all skin layers—from epidermis through papillary and reticular dermis. This study provided direct evidence that dual-depth RF technology can achieve comprehensive skin rejuvenation, effectively reversing multiple markers of skin aging. 


By addressing both dermal layers with precision, the 3D Handpiece delivers improvements across the full spectrum of aging concerns:


  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Skin laxity and loss of firmness

  • Uneven texture and enlarged pores

  • Irregular skin tone

  • Dyspigmentation


This technology targets the underlying structural and cellular changes that cause these concerns, resulting in more comprehensive and longer-lasting improvements. 


Dual Operation Modes for Maximum Versatility

The 3D Handpiece offers flexible treatment parameters through dual operation modes:


Pulse/Single Mode: Allows for controlled, deliberate energy delivery in specific treatment areas requiring precision. 


Repeat/Dose Mode: Enables efficient treatment of larger surface areas with consistent, repeatable energy delivery. 

This versatility allows providers to customize treatments based on anatomical considerations, patient concerns, and desired outcomes. 


Integration with the AGNES Ecosystem


The 3D Handpiece exemplifies Agnes Medical’s anatomy-first philosophy. Rather than applying energy broadly and hoping for improvement, this technology enables targeted intervention at the precise tissue depths where aging occurs. 


For providers seeking to offer their patients meaningful, measurable improvements without surgery, the 3D Handpiece is proof that understanding anatomy and engineering technology accordingly produces superior clinical outcomes. 






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