Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for achieving the cosmetically beneficial effects of shrinking collagen tissue in the dermis in an effective, non-invasive manner, which leaves the outer layer of skin intact and undamaged. One embodiment of the invention provides electromagnetic energy to the skin of a patient. The device includes a carrier and an array of electrodes on the carrier. A microporous pad on the carrier overlies the array of electrodes, forming an interior chamber to contain an electrically conductive material. The microporous pad is adapted to contact a patient's skin and ionically transport the applied electromagnetic energy to ohmically heat dermal tissue beneath the epidermal skin region. The shape of the carrier may differ to match different skin topographies and the electrodes may be sized to extend into tissue to heat a dermal skin region.