Fractional Radiofrequency Research Articles

Subject Satisfaction of Wrinkle Reduction Following Treatment with Fractional Radiofrequency: A Prospective Study.

Fractional radiofrequency (FRF) technology reduces skin laxity and treats aging-related skin disorders such as wrinkles. The objective of this study was to evaluate participant satisfaction of FRF for the treatment of facial wrinkles. A total of 25 male and female patients (average age 60.5 years) were enrolled in this prospective, single center study. Patients received 3 FRF treatments at 3- to 5-week intervals on both sides of the face, using 80-pin (up to 124 millijoule/pin) or the 160-pin tip (up to 62 millijoule/pin) applicator. Follow-up visits were conducted at 6 and 12 weeks after the last treatment. Participant satisfaction was evaluated by individual self-assessment of wrinkle reduction and a patient satisfaction questionnaire. Pain, tolerability, and safety were monitored throughout. The individual satisfaction was high with participants giving an average satisfaction score of 2.8 ("satisfied") out of 4. Pain was rated "mild" with an average of 4.0 on a 10-point Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Tolerability was rated 3.3 out of 4.0, correlating to "very tolerable." Ninety percent (90%) of subjects reported a mild or moderate improvement in their treatment area at 12-week follow-up. This study demonstrates that under the FRF pre-sets used, patients are satisfied with results of FRF modality for improvement of their wrinkles. No unanticipated side effects were observed. Treatment was tolerable, and individuals had high levels of satisfaction and tolerability with the results at last follow-up. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(11):1221-1227. doi:10.36849/JDD.6986.

Can Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency System Treatment Impair the Skin Barrier Function in Chinese Patients? A Prospective Clinical Trial

IntroductionFacial cosmetic conditions can manifest as post-inflammatory erythema, scars, pigmentation, enlarged pores, skin laxity, and photoaging. The microneedle fractional radiofrequency system (MFRS) is a new device that combines radiofrequency and microneedles and has been widely used for skin rejuvenation. Since MFRS is an invasive technique, this study aimed to evaluate whether the skin barrier functions might be impaired by this treatment, revealed by skin sensitivity and exacerbation of melasma.MethodsTwenty patients with Fitzpatrick grades III–IV facial conditions (skin laxity with melasma, n = 9; post-inflammatory erythema and scars, n = 5; and enlarged pores, n = 6) and treated with MFRS were enrolled. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL, using Ultrascan UC22), skin sensitivity (ten-item Sensitive Scale, SS-10), melanin index (MI), melasma area and severity index (MASI), red areas (VISIA), and thickness and density of the epidermis and dermis on ultrasonography were compared between baseline and 6 months after all treatment sessions.ResultsTwenty patients completed a 6-month follow-up after two MFRS treatments. During days 1–3 post-treatment, the TEWL values gradually increased to the peak and decreased to baseline levels (BD) on day 7. There was no significant difference in TEWL compared with baseline in month (M) 1, M3, and M6. There were no significant changes in the thickness and density of the epidermis. Although the thickness and density of the dermis increased, there was no significant difference compared to baseline. There was no significant difference in the MI, MASI, and SS-10 score before and after MFRS treatment. After treatment with MFRS, the red area and scarring reduced significantly (p < .01), and no significant difference was observed in other patients.ConclusionsMFRS is a safe and effective treatment for facial cosmetic conditions. The skin barrier function is not impaired by MFRS treatment, since it does not cause skin sensitivity or melasma exacerbation.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13555-022-00807-w.

33213 Nonsurgical facelift: Clinical and histologic evaluation of fractional radiofrequency treatment on fine lines and skin laxity

Background: Fractional radiofrequency (FRF) microneedling technology has shown effectiveness in improving skin laxity and wrinkles. We report our nonsurgical face-lift experience using 5 pairs of electrically isolated 32-gauge microneedles. The device uses insulated needles which are inserted at a 25° angle to the skin surface. This allows selective thermal impact to the dermis while sparing the epidermis. Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a temperature controlled FRF microneedling device on fine lines and skin laxity. Methods: 15 patients with skin laxity and fine lines were treated with a single session of FRF with microneedling. All subjects were treated with local tumescent anesthesia prior to treatment. FRF treatment was administered through five 32 g needle electrode pairs at a preselected real-time fixed temperature of 62°C to 70°C, and an energy duration of 3 to 4 seconds. A punch biopsy was performed before and after treatment in 9 patients. Clinical photographs were obtained before treatment and at follow-up. Two blinded dermatologists assessed the clinical improvement in terms of skin laxity and fine lines using a quartile grading scale. Any adverse effects were assessed during the entire study period. Results: All patients experienced both subjective and objective improvement. No serious adverse effects were reported. Transient adverse events were transient edema, and erythema. Histologic evaluation revealed increased dermal collagen and straightening of elastic fibers in the reticular dermis after treatment. Conclusion: Fractional radiofrequency (FRF) microneedling technology may be successfully used for a nonsurgical facelift.

Dermatologic facial applications of Morpheus8 fractional radiofrequency microneedling.

Dermatologic patients are expressing increasing interest in minimally invasive procedures to address a wide range of common concerns from skin laxity to acne and scarring. Fractional radiofrequency (RF) microneedling offers an effective method for addressing a variety of dermatologic conditions with reduced downtime compared with historically more invasive procedural approaches. This article aims to describe the technology utilized in fractional RF microneedling (Morpheus8, InMode Aesthetics) and its studied applications in dermatology for treatment of the face.

A Prospective Trial of the Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency System Application in the Treatment of Infraorbital Dark Circles

BackgroundInfraorbital dark circles (IDC) are commonly consulted in aesthetic practice. There is not yet a multifactorial approach to facilitating their treatment.ObjectiveTo investigate the safety and efficacy of the microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MRF) system for the treatment of IDC.MethodsA prospective, split-face, evaluator-blind clinical trial was conducted to study the change in the overall appearance, color, and wrinkles in 21 female patients with mixed type IDC before and after MFR treatment.ResultsBoth patients and independent evaluators found significant improvement on the global aesthetic scales after the MFR treatment, especially on periorbital wrinkles (p=0.031). Trends in decreased melanin density in the IDC area were found, but no statistical differences were established. No side effects were observed.ConclusionMFR is a safe and effective modality for improving mixed type IDC by correcting the structural factors.

Rejuvenating and contouring effect of bipolar fractional microneedle radiofrequency on the lower eyelid

Rejuvenating and contouring effect of bipolar fractional microneedle radiofrequency on the lower eyelid

Microneedling Monotherapy for Acne Scar: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Acne scarring, formed by the deposition of collagen following inflammatory acne, not only represents a cosmetic problem but also poses a psychological health risk to patients. As microneedling has become a common treatment for acne scarring, an increasing number of studies have compared the efficacy and safety of microneedling. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing microneedling with other treatments. Three databases, namely Embase, PubMED, and Cochrane library, were searched until June 20, 2021, for RCTs only. Studies using microneedling in both treatments were excluded. Twelve studies, totaling 414 participants, were included in our meta-analysis. For objective scar improvement, the pooled estimate analysis of the first group, treated with microneedling without radiofrequency, yielded a mean difference of 0.42 (95% CI-0.12-0.73%) with a significant difference at the 5% significance level. The second group, treated with fractional radiofrequency microneedling, exhibited no significance at the 5% significance level. Regarding subjective satisfaction, most results exhibited no significant difference between microneedling and other treatments. Although no case of secondary scarring or infection was reported in our study, the pooled result of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was significant at the 5% significance level and preferred microneedling treatment. Microneedling without radiofrequency achieved superior results in terms of scar improvement. No form of microneedling caused postinflammatory hyperpigmentation-an advantage in acne scar treatment. Thus, microneedling is a favorable choice for the treatment of acne scarring. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Microneedle fractional radiofrequency for atrophic acne scars: In vivo evaluation of results by 3D analysis and reflectance confocal microscopy.

The efficacy of microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFR) for the treatment of atrophic acne scars has been recently described, but accurate in vivo microscopic documentation of the processes occurring has never been reported. The aim of this study is to describe in vivo morphological atrophic acne scars' variations after treatment with MFR by means reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and three-dimensional (3D) imaging. A total of 11 patients requiring treatment for atrophic facial acne scars were treated with four monthly sessions of MFR. 3D imaging and RCM were assessed at baseline and 1month after last session. Clinical improvement, according to Global Assessment Improvement Scale, and patients' satisfaction were evaluated. Clinical improvement was observed in all the treated patients, although better results were obtained for boxcar scars (p=0.043). 3D imaging revealed a significant improvement in terms of mean scars' depth (p<0.001). Otherwise, RCM highlighted collagen remodeling with restoration of a reticular structure. Our study confirms the efficacy and safety of MFR in acne scars' treatment and provides the microscopic description of the results using RCM.

Management of the post-procedural period in aesthetic medicine – prevention of complications and reduction of the rehabilitation period

The post-treatment period plays a great role in the prevention of complications and shortens the rehabilitation time. The article provides up-to-date international statistics on the number of cosmetic procedures performed annually according to the International Society for Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery (ISAPS). A successful clinical experience of using a repair cream con taining oat plantlets extract, l-ALA-l-GLU dipeptide and hyaluronic acid as post-procedure care on the example of 2 patients is described. In the first case, a 32-year-old patient presented with postacne scars underwent a fractional radiofrequency ablation procedure followed by application of a cream with oat plantlets extract on the left side of the face, and a cream with dexpanthenol on the right side for 10 days. 5 minutes after application on the left side, the patient noted a pronounced reduction in burning, tingling, itching and soreness sensation. The entire post-treatment period also was faster and more comfortable on the side of the face, where the cream with oat plantlets extract was applied and ended successfully by the 8th day after the procedure. On the comparison side, the full rehabilitation process took 10 days. In the second case, a 27-year-old patient with acne, after a chemical peeling procedure, as a final remedy and further post-procedure care used the cream with oat plantlets extract on one side of the face, and a cream recommended by the manufacturer of peeling systems on the other side. When re-examined after 7 days, there was also a faster regression of inflammatory elements, post-procedural erythema and edema, dryness and discomfort after peeling were less pronounced on the side of the face where the cream with oat plantlets extract was applied. Repair cream containing oat plantlets extract, l-ALA-l-GLU dipeptide, and hyaluronic acid showed excellent efficacy and tolerability, had synergistic efficacy (moisturizing, healing, preventing aesthetic defects). The authors consider to recommend it as a mean of post-procedural rehabilitation.

The efficacy and safety study of the combined use of platelet-rich plasma and fractional radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of post-acne scars

Introduction. So far, a large number of skin scars treating methods have been proposed and tested. The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is currently being considered as one of the most promising approaches to skin scar treatment.Aim. Clinical efficacy and safety evaluation of complex treatment of post-acne scars using PRP.Materials and methods. An open, randomized, prospective study was conducted in parallel groups. The study included 78 patients with post-acne scars, then randomized into 2 groups. Group 1: 36 patients receiving platelet-rich plasma (PRP); group 2: 42 patients receiving complex treatment with PRP and fractional radiofrequency ablation (PRP + FRF). PRP procedures using the micro-papular technique in group 1 were carried out 5 times with an interval of 2 weeks. The combination of PRP + FRF in group 2 was performed according to the following: the first procedure – FRF, two weeks later – PRP using the micro-papular technique. Then after 2 weeks FRF was performed again, and so on. The total number of procedures of both techniques was 10.Results and discussion. As a result of the treatment, in all patients with post-acne, the clinical indicators of the severity of skin scarring changes decreased significantly, while the most noticeable dynamics were common for patients in group 2. The scars assessment using the Vancouver scale showed that 6 and 12 months after treatment, the severity of objective components and the severity of subjective sensations decreased in most patients. The severity of their own attitude to persistent defects also decreased. Analysis of the frequency of adverse reactions during treatment and in the early period showed that there were no significant intergroup differences in individual adverse reactions. The overall frequency of adverse events in the long-term period also did not significantly differ.Conclusion. The results of the study indicate that the use of PRP in the complex treatment of scarring is a clinically effective and safe method of treatment and allows you to expand the range of therapeutic approaches for scarring skin deformities.

Review of Lasers and Energy-Based Devices for Skin Rejuvenation and Scar Treatment With Histologic Correlations.

Lasers and energy-based devices (EBD) are popular treatments for skin rejuvenation and resurfacing. Achieving desired outcomes and avoiding complications require understanding the effects of these devices at a histologic level. Currently, no comprehensive review summarizing the histologic effects of laser and energy-based treatments exists. To describe how lasers and EBD alter skin histology and improve the overall understanding of these devices. A PubMed search was conducted for studies with histologic analysis of fractional picosecond laser, fractional radiofrequency microneedling, nonablative lasers, and ablative lasers. Fractional picosecond lasers induce intraepidermal and/or dermal vacuoles from laser-induced optical breakdown. Fractional radiofrequency microneedling delivers thermal energy to the dermis while sparing the epidermis, making it safer for patients with darker skin phototypes. Fractional nonablative lasers induce conical zones of coagulation of the epidermis and upper dermis. Ablative lasers vaporize the stratum corneum down to the dermis. Traditional ablative lasers cause diffuse vaporization while fractional ablative lasers generate columns of tissue ablation. Lasers and EBD are effective for skin resurfacing and rejuvenation and have different mechanisms with disparate targets in the skin. Safe and effective use of devices requires understanding the histologic laser-tissue interaction.

Evaluation of the cumulative effect of Radiofrequency Microneedling and fractional Erbium: Glass 1565 laser in moderate to severe acne scars in skin of color.

Evaluation of the cumulative effect of Radiofrequency Microneedling and fractional Erbium: Glass 1565 laser in moderate to severe acne scars in skin of color. This retrospective study was conducted on 20 patients of skin types III -V having moderate to severe atrophic acne scars. The study was carried out over 1year from March 2019 to March 2020. All patients underwent 4 sessions of non-ablative Fractional Erbium: Glass 1565 laser to alternate with 4 sessions of Fractional Radiofrequency Microneedling once a month over 8months. Of the 20 patients enrolled, 18 completed treatment protocol. Two patients were withdrawn from the study because they were unable to attend follow-up treatment sessions. The subjective evaluation was performed using photographs at baseline, 8months, and 12months. A photographic evaluation was performed using the following numeric responses: <25%, 25-50%, 51-75%, and 76-100% difference in severity. None of the patients had worsening of their scars. The improvement in scars was statistically significant. The combination of Fractional Erbium: Glass 1565 laser and Fractional Radiofrequency Microneedling can be used in the treatment of acne scars in skin of color. Our protocols helped achieve significant improvement of scars.

Comparative effects of fractional radiofrequency and microneedling on the genitalia of postmenopausal women: Histological and clinical changes

ObjectivesThe authors aimed to evaluate clinical and histological changes induced by Fractional Radiofrequency (FRF) and microneedling in vulvar tissue. MethodsThirty postmenopausal women were randomly divided into G1 (FRF) and G2 (microneedling) groups. Sub-ablative FRF was executed using disposable fractionated electrodes with an intensity of 8 mJ. Microneedling was performed using a derma roller system. The authors evaluated before and after treatment using the Vaginal Laxity Questionnaire (VLQ), EuroQol Five-Dimensional (EQ-5D) questionnaire, and the Blatt and Kupperman Menopausal Index (BKMI). Additionally, the authors performed biopsies of the labia majora for histological analysis pre- and post-treatment. Data were expressed as mean (± standard deviation). A paired t-test was used for intra-group comparison (pre- and post-treatment), with an independent t-test used to compare intergroup data (both pre- and post-treatment). ResultsIn the G1 group, the VLQ values showed differences compared to the pre-treatment values with the data obtained 60 days after the beginning of the sessions (p = 0.01). Similarly, the data changes of the G2 group proved to be significant (p = 0.001) across the same time interval. In comparing the groups, VLQ values were not different (p > 0.05). Regarding histological analysis, FRF demonstrated improvement concerning the number of fibroblasts, blood vessels, and fatty degeneration (p < 0.05) compared to the control. Additionally, FRF and microneedling samples showed higher type III collagen and vimentin expression in the immunohistochemical analysis (p < 0.05). ConclusionsThe therapies were found to be effective in treating the flaccidity of the female external genitalia. Additionally, histological changes were observed after interventions suggesting collagen remodeling.

Clinical Evaluation of Fractional Radiofrequency for the Treatment and Reduction of Wrinkles: A Prospective Study.

Fractional radiofrequency (FRF) technology has been shown in clinical studies to improve skin laxity, and to treat various skin conditions related to aging and alternate collagen structures such as rhytids. The objective of this clinical study was to evaluate the safety and performance of FRF (up to 124 mJ per pin) for the treatment of facial rhytids, emphasizing the upper lip and perioral areas. Enrolled subjects received a series of 3 FRF treatments to the full face, 3 to 5 weeks apart. Immediately after treatment, the subjects were given a scale to assess pain and tolerability of the treatment. Subject satisfaction questionnaires were completed at follow-up visits at 6 and 12 weeks post final treatment. Before and after photographs were graded for change by three blinded evaluators using the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle and Elastosis Scale (FWES) and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Image sets of 10 enrolled subjects (average age 62.7 years) were assessed by blinded evaluators. The overall face FWES score improved from 5.97 (SE 0.20) at baseline to 5.78 (SE 0.22) at 12-week follow-up. The GAIS improved by 0.4 points and was significant compared to baseline (P = 0.0004). Subject satisfaction was high with subjects giving an average satisfaction score of 3.2 (&ldquo;satisfied&rdquo;) out of 4. Pain was rated &ldquo;mild to moderate&rdquo; with an average of 3.9 on a 11-point Wong Baker FACES Scale. Ninety percent (90%) of subjects reported either a mild, moderate, or significant improvement to their treatment area. Eighty percent (80%) of subjects reported that they would recommend the treatment to a friend. There were no reports of adverse events or unanticipated side effects during the duration of the study. A statistically significant reduction in rhytids of the upper lip and the perioral area, was found, as evaluated by independent blinded evaluators. There were no adverse events. Treatment pain was low and tolerable, and subjects had high levels of satisfaction with the results at last follow-up. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(1):43-48. doi:10.36849/JDD.6492.

Microablative Fractional Radiofrequency as a Therapeutical Option for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: Perspectives.

The genitourinary syndrome in menopause can occur at different stages of life, with different causes or triggering factors, such as prolonged use of antiestrogens, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and extensive vaginal surgeries, which can alter vascularization, hydration, collagen quality, and tissue elasticity. Despite hormonal therapy being considered the best evidenced treatment for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), there are limitations concerning the latter. Thus, alternative, complementary, or even substitutive treatments have emerged, such as energy use, promoting thermal tissue stimulation to improve tropism. Due to its practicality and feasibility, the micro ablative fractional radiofrequency (MAFRF) has gained space among these energies. It uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves and promotes thermal micro points in the superficial and deep dermis. The safety of these energies limits thermal action laterality and depth. Laterally, it is essential for an adequate regenerative effect without scarring marks or sequelae; the appropriate depth is important for stimulating the obligatory tissue repair response with the production and reorganization of collagen, elastic fibers, increased vascularization and hydration, and the consequent improvement in tropism. In gynecology, the MAFRF is used with therapeutic indication and functional improvement; it is applied to the entire length of the vaginal walls, the vulvar vestibule, urethral meatus, labia minora, clitoris prepuce, labia majora, perineum, and perianal region. The MAFRF has been proved to be an effective and safe treatment for GSM, with long-lasting effects, significantly reducing symptoms and improving vaginal tropism. This review aims to analyze the MAFRF as a non-hormonal therapeutic option for GSM.

Clinical Evaluation of Fractional Radiofrequency for the Treatment and Reduction of Wrinkles: A Prospective Study

Background: Fractional radiofrequency (FRF) technology has been shown in clinical studies to improve skin laxity, and to treat various skin conditions related to aging and alternate collagen structures such as rhytids. The objective of this clinical study was to evaluate the safety and performance of FRF (up to 124 mJ per pin) for the treatment of facial rhytids, emphasizing the upper lip and perioral areas. Methods: Enrolled subjects received a series of 3 FRF treatments to the full face, 3 to 5 weeks apart. Immediately after treatment, the subjects were given a scale to assess pain and tolerability of the treatment. Subject satisfaction questionnaires were completed at follow-up visits at 6 and 12 weeks post final treatment. Before and after photographs were graded for change by three blinded evaluators using the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle and Elastosis Scale (FWES) and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS).Results: Image sets of 10 enrolled subjects (average age 62.7 years) were assessed by blinded evaluators. The overall face FWES score improved from 5.97 (SE 0.20) at baseline to 5.78 (SE 0.22) at 12-week follow-up. The GAIS improved by 0.4 points and was significant compared to baseline (P = 0.0004). Subject satisfaction was high with subjects giving an average satisfaction score of 3.2 (“satisfied”) out of 4. Pain was rated “mild to moderate” with an average of 3.9 on a 11-point Wong Baker FACES Scale. Ninety percent (90%) of subjects reported either a mild, moderate, or significant improvement to their treatment area. Eighty percent (80%) of subjects reported that they would recommend the treatment to a friend. There were no reports of adverse events or unanticipated side effects during the duration of the study. Conclusion: A statistically significant reduction in rhytids of the upper lip and the perioral area, was found, as evaluated by independent blinded evaluators. There were no adverse events. Treatment pain was low and tolerable, and subjects had high levels of satisfaction with the results at last follow-up. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(1):43-48. doi:10.36849/JDD.6492Fractional Radiofrequency

Treatment of Striae Alba using Fractional Radiofrequency with and without Lyophilized Growth Factors

Abstract Background Various treatment modalities have been applied to treat striae alba with low satisfaction rate. Fractional Microneedling radiofrequency provides deep dermal coagulation, thereby inducing collagen synthesis and tissue tightening. The addition of platelet lyophilized growth factors may add to the effect of fractional Microneedling radiofrequency. Objectives To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of fractional Microneedling radiofrequency alone or combined with lyophilized growth factors in the treatment of striae alba. Methods In this left-right comparative study, 25 patients suffering from striae alba on the abdomen received sessions of fractional microneedling radiofrequency with lyophilized growth factors on one side and with saline (as placebo) on the other side at 4 weeks interval. Patients‘ satisfaction was evaluated at the end of study using a questionnaire (Patients were asked the following questions: Are you satisfied with this treatment (completely satisfied, satisfied, partially satisfied, or not satisfied)?. Results There was a significant improvement in striae alba after treatment in both the lyophilized growth factors (p = &amp;lt;0.0001) and placebo sides (p = &amp;lt;0.0001), the lyophilized growth factors being superior (p = 0.002). Patient satisfaction was more on the LGF side (p = 0.034),where 6 versus 3 patients were completely satisfied. Erythema and hyperpigmentation were less on the lyophilized growth factors side. Conclusion The combination of fractional microneedling radiofrequency and lyophilized growth factors improves striae alba outcome.

Laser-assisted Delivery of a Combined Antioxidant Formulation Enhances the Clinical Efficacy of Fractional Microneedle Radiofrequency Treatment: A Pilot Study

Laser-assisted Delivery of a Combined Antioxidant Formulation Enhances the Clinical Efficacy of Fractional Microneedle Radiofrequency Treatment: A Pilot Study

Safety and efficacy of fractional radiofrequency for the treatment and reduction of acne scarring: A prospective study.

ObjectivesSkin rejuvenation with radiofrequency has been a widely used treatment modality for the safe and efficient remodeling of the dermis and revision of textural irregularities, achieved with minimal downtime. The efficacy of fractional radiofrequency (FRF) specifically for acne scarring has not been widely established. The objective of this clinical trial was to establish the efficacy and safety of FRF for moderate to severe acne scarring in a wide range of Fitzpatrick skin types using two different applicator tips to deliver energy to the skin (80‐pin of up to 124 mJ/pin and 160‐pin of up to 62 mJ/pin).MethodsEnrolled subjects received a series of three FRF treatments to the full face, each 4 weeks apart. A visual analog scale was utilized to assess pain of the treatment. Subject satisfaction questionnaires were completed at follow‐up visits at 6 and 12 weeks post final treatment. Photographs were graded for change by three blinded evaluators using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS).ResultsImage sets of 23 enrolled subjects were assessed by blinded evaluation, showing a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.009) from the baseline visit to the 12‐week follow‐up on the GAIS for acne scarring. Subject satisfaction was high with subjects giving an average satisfaction score of 3.27 (“satisfied”) out of 4. Pain was “mild” as treatments were rated an average of 2.15 on a 10‐point visual analog scale. The GAIS score of the 80‐pin tip improved patients' acne scars treated with that applicator by 1.06 points and 0.85 for the 160‐pin tip. Ninety‐five percent (95.5%) of subjects reported either a mild, moderate, or significant improvement to their treatment area. Ninety‐one percent of subjects reported that they would recommend the treatment to a friend.ConclusionFRF produced a statistically significant improvement in acne scarring when assessed by independent blinded evaluators. No serious adverse events resulted from treatment by either applicator tip. Treatment pain was low and tolerable among subjects of all Fitzpatrick skin types. Subjects had high levels of satisfaction with the results.

Comparison of the efficacy of Fractional Radiofrequency Microneedling alone and in combination with platelet-rich plasma in neck rejuvenation: a clinical and optical coherence tomography study.

Esthetic improvement of the neck and cervicomental angle remains one of the most challenging aspects of rejuvenation. Fractional radiofrequency microneedling demonstrated significant skin tightening and lifting of lower third of the face. To evaluate and compare fractional radiofrequency microneedling alone and in combination with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in neck rejuvenation. 20 patients with mild to moderate neck laxity were randomized to receive 3sessions of either fractional radiofrequency microneedling +PRP (group A) or fractional radiofrequency microneedling monotherapy (group B). Evaluation was done using optical coherence tomography to detect dermis thickness, measurement of cervicomental angle, a score done by two investigators blinded to used modality (GAIS) and patient satisfaction score. Both Groups showed a statistically significant improvement in all parameters. Comparing the two groups, the mean dermal thickness after treatment was higher in group A compared with B but was found statistically insignificant. More favorable results were reported in group A according to GAIS. Other parameters showed comparable results. Fractional microneedle radiofrequency with insulated microneedles offers a safe and effective modality for mild to moderate neck laxity when used alone or in combination with PRP. It remains questionable whether combining fr-RF microneedling with PRP provides more favorable results in terms of efficacy and side effects.