Radiofrequency therapy in esthetic dermatology: A review of clinical evidences

Abstract

Chronological skin aging causes the modification of genetic material through enzymes and proteins changes. The process reduces cellular proliferation, along with loss of tissue elasticity, reduced ability to regulate aqueous exchanges, and inefficient tissue replication. Appearance is negatively affected by cumulative changes in coloration, texture, and elasticity over time. The increase in the population's average life expectancy boosts the search for cosmetic therapies that can delay aging, mostly for the noninvasive modalities. Among the various options, radiofrequency therapy is a technique that can help reduce the effects of skin aging. Therefore, this study aims to review clinical evidence provided by scientific literature on the benefits of using radiofrequency therapy in reducing skin aging effects. A review of the literature concerning skin aging, characteristics of radiofrequency therapy, and radiofrequency therapy in the treatment of skin laxity and mechanism of action was conducted using PubMed. The included studies have suggested that the mechanism of radiofrequency action is heating the dermis while preserving the epidermis. This heating causes immediate collagen denaturation, which is followed by the formation of new collagen, naturally providing skin tightening and greater elasticity. Even when used as single therapeutic modality, radiofrequency seems to meet the expectations in reducing the effects of skin aging.