Fractional Radiofrequency Treatment Research Articles

Efficacyof fractional radiofrequency in the treatment of erythematous capillary rosacea: A split-face study.

To assess the effectiveness and safety of treating erythematotelangiectatic rosacea using fractional radiofrequency (FRF). Twenty patients with a confirmed diagnosis of erythema capillaris rosacea were selected, and one side of each patient's face was randomly assigned to receive FRF treatments for three to six times, with an interval of 2 weeks between each treatment. VISIA, dermoscopy, and the Clinician's Erythema Evaluation Scale (CEA) were applied to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment before and after the treatment, to record the VAS scores and adverse reactions, and to conduct a patient satisfaction survey. The characteristic counts and scores of red zone and porphyrin as assessed by VISIA test were significantly decreased, and the difference between the treated side and the pretreatment side was statistically significant (p < 0.05), and the efficacy of the treatment was statistically insignificant compared with the control side, except for the red zone and porphyrin which were statistically significant before and after the treatment (p > 0.05). By CEA score, the difference between the treated side after treatment and the control side was statistically significant (p < 0.05), and the difference between the treated side before and after treatment was statistically significant (p < 0.05); the difference between the control side before and after treatment was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Dermatoscopic observation showed reduction in pore size, reduction of yellowish-white and black horn plugs within the pores, lightening of the red background and thinning and blurring of the capillary structure on the treated side of the skin compared to the control side, and the skin on the treated side showed the above mentioned changes before and after the treatment as well. The mean pain score of the subjects was obtained by VAS score 3.67 ± 0.90. Adverse effects included mild edema, erythema, and microscopic crusting; no long-term adverse effects were seen in all patients. The efficacy of FRF treatment was evaluated 1 month after the final treatment, and 85% of the subjects rated it as satisfactory, very satisfactory, and very satisfactory. FRF for the treatment of erythematous capillary dilatation rosacea is effective, safe, and suitable for clinical promotion.

Fractional Radiofrequency and Oral Isotretinoin-A Prospective Randomized Controlled Split-Face Trial Comparing Concurrent Versus Delayed Fractional Radiofrequency Treatment for Acne Scars.

Therapeutic dogma has been to treat acne scars no less than 6 months after isotretinoin (ITN) cessation. To evaluate the safety and efficacy of fractional radiofrequency (FRF) in patients treated concurrently with ITN. We conducted a prospective randomized control 3-arm comparative trial to evaluate the treatment of acne scars. Patients received one of three treatment options: (A) ITN and FRF concurrent treatment, (B) ITN monotherapy, and (C) FRF 6 months post-ITN treatment. Patients in the FRF cohorts received three monthly sessions. Patients were followed for adverse effects up to 6-9 months post-FRF treatment. Final cosmesis was scored by three independent dermatologists using two scales: the Echelle d'Evaluation Clinique des Cicatrices d'Acne (ECCA) and an internal 5-point investigator's scale, indicating the percentage of improvement. Subjective analyses by patients were also assessed. Objective and subjective analyses revealed improvement in the ITN-FRF cohort, which was superior to the delayed FRF cohort and the ITN monotherapy cohort. Specifically, the concurrently treated cohort (ITN-FRF) had a significant reduction in acne scar volume from baseline mean (151.1 ± 44.7 to 97.0 ± 31.2, p < 0.005), outperforming both the delayed FRF and monotherapy ITN treatment cohorts, respectively (155.4 ± 37.8 to 122.0 ± 46.2, 144.6 ± 82.8 to 132.4 ± 62.7). Additionally, the concurrently treated cohort demonstrated improved ECCA scores (36.8 ± 15.5), significantly better than the ITN monotherapy cohort (101.5 ± 20.1, p < 0.01). Limited patient sample size: 38 patients completed the study; mostly Fitzpatrick Type II-III skin; photographic assessments utilized. Per our prospective trial, concurrent treatment of ITN-FRF is superior to delayed FRF treatment 6 months post-ITN cessation.

Comparison of promestriene with vaginal fractional CO2 laser and radiofrequency treatments of genitourinary syndrome of menopause

ObjectiveTo compare the effects of fractional CO2 laser and microablative fractional radiofrequency treatment with promestriene topical estrogen on sexual function and genitourinary syndrome of menopause symptoms. MethodsThis was a prospective randomized open-label clinical trial conducted with 62 postmenopausal women assigned to three intervention groups: a) topical promestriene for 90 days (n = 17); b) fractional CO2 laser treatment (n = 24); and c) microablative fractional radiofrequency treatment (n = 21). Each of the latter two groups underwent three treatment sessions at 4-week intervals. At baseline and at the end of the study, all participants had a gynecological examination that included vaginal pH measurement, and the completion of the Vaginal Symptom Score, the Vaginal Health Index, and the Female Sexual Function Index. For the energy treatment groups, adverse effects were evaluated after each session. Group homogeneity was assessed at baseline, and results were evaluated over time (from baseline to the end of treatment) and between groups over time. ResultsAll baseline parameters were similar among studied groups. At the end of the study, all 3 treatments had produced similar effects: a reduction of vaginal pH, and an improvement of vulvovaginal symptoms (Vaginal Symptom Score and Vaginal Health Index scores) as well as sexual function (higher total Female Sexual Function Index scores, and in the desire, arousal, lubrication and pain domain scores), with no differences observed between groups. Side-effects were slight for both energy treatment groups, mainly represented by vaginal discharge. ConclusionThe present study suggests that the two energy treatments were efficient along with promestriene at improving postmenopausal genitourinary and sexuality symptoms.Clinical trial identification numberNCT04717245.

Clinical factors influencing the effectiveness of microplasma fractional radiofrequency treatment for atrophic acne scars: Aretrospective analysis.

Microplasma fractional radiofrequency (MP FRF) technology has been increasingly used for acne scars. Nevertheless, little evidence has analyzed the factors influencing its effectiveness before and during treatment. To evaluate the clinical factors affecting the effectiveness of MP FRF therapy for atrophic acne scars. We analyzed retrospectively the clinical data of 79 acne scar patients treated with MP FRF technology. The outcome of interest included the effectiveness and adverse events after MP FRF treatment. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to evaluate clinical factors associated with effectiveness after the initial session. All patients received 115 sessions of MP FRF therapy (average: 1.5 sessions). Twenty-eight (35.4%) patients improved moderately to excellently after one session. We found that the severe grade before treatment was negatively correlated with the effectiveness according to Goodman-Baron qualitative scores (OR = 0.02, 95% CI [0.001, 0.37], p = 0.009). The presence of icepick scars was also a negative correlation factor for the effectiveness (OR = 0.06, 95% CI [0.004, 1.00], p = 0.049). Furthermore, after excluding the effects of icepick scars and Goodman-Baron scores before treatment, ECCA scores were also correlated with effectiveness (OR = 1.04, 95% CI [1.01, 1.06], p = 0.009). MP FRF therapy was effective in treating atrophic acne scars with no permanent adverse events. The severity of Goodman-Baron qualitative scores and icepick scars were independent clinical factors affecting effectiveness, suggesting the possible requirement for additional treatments other than MP FRF for severe acne scars and icepick scars.

Efficacy and safety of bipolar fractional radiofrequency vs. 2940-nm Er:YAG ablative fractional laser in striae distensae treatment: A split abdomen study.

Striae distensae (SD) is a challenging cosmetic condition. Ablative fractional laser (AFL) is an effective method for treating SD. Recently, fractional radiofrequency (FRF) has been shown to be a promising treatment for SD; however, few studies have shown the differences between FRF and AFL in the treatment of SD. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy and safety of bipolar FRF with 2940-nm erbium yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) AFL in the treatment of SD. Twenty volunteers with abdominal SD were enrolled in this study. One half of the abdomen was treated with 2940-nm Er:YAG AFL, whereas the other half was treated with bipolar FRF, with three sessions at 4-week intervals. Photographic evaluations of clinical improvement were conducted by two independent investigators before and after treatment, and the patients provided self-assessments. Two participants underwent three punch biopsies, one before treatment and two obtained from bilateral representative skin lesions on the abdomen 3 months following the final treatment. Clinical improvements were observed in SD on both sides of the abdomen after the two treatments. Post-treatment skin biopsies revealed increased thickness in the epidermis and dermis, and higher collagen and elastin density compared to those at the baseline. No statistically significant differences were observed in the clinical outcomes between the two treatment approaches. The efficacy and safety of bipolar FRF treatment are comparable to those of 2940-nm Er:YAG AFL treatment, providing an alternative and effective treatment for SD.

Cosmetic therapies for Chinese patients with acne taking concomitant or recent intake of oral isotretinoin: A retrospective study.

The current standard recommendation is to initiate the cosmetic therapies after discontinuing taking oral isotretinoin for at least 6 months. However, this recommendation has been questioned in several recent publications, and it is difficult to operate in clinical practice as early initiation of effective treatment is desirable for patients with acne sequelae. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of chemical peeling and light/laser or radiofrequency treatments combined with oral isotretinoin for patients with acne vulgaris and acne scars. A retrospective study of 511 patients on/or recently administered with isotretinoin treated with glycolic acid, intense pulsed light, nonablative fractional laser, fractional radiofrequency, and ablative carbon dioxide laser. A total of 1352 interventions were performed. The medical follow-up lasted for at least 1 year. The efficacy and safety of different procedures were evaluated. A total of 511 patients, who were treated with isotretinoin orally or stopped for <6 months, received 477 sessions of glycolic acid chemical peeling treatment, 588 sessions of intense pulsed light treatment, 61 sessions of nonablative fractional laser treatment, 101 sessions of fractional radiofrequency treatment, and 125 sessions of ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser treatment. No hypertrophic scars and keloids were found, and the incidence of serious adverse reactions such as scarring, erythema, blisters, and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation did not increase. It is safe to perform skin procedures in patients with acne and acne scars during or after discontinuation of isotretinoin for <6 months. Invasive treatments such as ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser treatment can be performed, as appropriate, by an experienced physician. The guideline of avoiding chemical and physical procedures in such patients taking oral isotretinoin should to revised.

Safety, tolerability and short-term efficacy of transvaginal fractional bipolar radiofrequency therapy for symptoms of stress and or mixed incontinence in conjunction with genitourinary syndrome of menopause.

Radiofrequency (RF) energy application stimulates collagen and elastin remodeling to restore the elasticity, and moisture of the superficial vaginal mucosa. This is the first study to report on the use of microneedling to deliver RF energy to the vaginal canal. Microneedling increases the response of the collagen contraction and neocollagenesis in deeper layers of tissue, thus increasing the support to the surface. The novel intravaginal microneedling device used in this study allows penetration of the needles to 1, 2, or 3 mm. A prospective study to evaluate the safety and short-term outcome of a single fractional RF treatment of the vaginal canal in a series of women with coexistent stress or mixed incontinence (MUI) and genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Twenty women who had symptoms of SUI and or MUI in conjunction with GSM were given a single vaginal treatment that consisted of fractional bipolar RF energy using the EmpowerRF platform with the Morpheus8V applicator (InMode). RF energy was delivered into the vaginal walls via 24 microneedles, at a depth of 1, 2, and 3 mm. Outcomes were evaluated by "cough" stress test, questionnaires (MESA SI, MESA UI, iQoL, UDI-6) and evaluation of vaginal tissue through the VHI scale at 1-, 3-, and 6-months post-treatment compared to baseline. Biopsies were performed at baseline and 3-months on five patients for histological reference and tissue evaluation. Eight out of eight outcomes measured from baseline to 6-months post-treatment showed improvement. The parameters scored in the questionnaires including frequency, urgency, nocturia, urge incontinence, and stress incontinence showed significant improvement in all areas at the 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up sessions compared to baseline. The results showed evidence that fractional RF energy delivered vaginally is safe, well tolerated, and provide short term improvement of SUI and or MUI in conjunction with GSM.

Clinical and histological evaluation of microneedle fractional radiofrequency treatment on facial fine lines and skin laxity in Koreans.

Facial wrinkles and sagging are the most visible signs of aging and can cause profound distress. Microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFR) is a minimally invasive procedure, which utilizes both microneedling and radiofrequency energy to rejuvenate the skin. To describe the safety and efficacy of a temperature-controlled MFR device on facial fine lines and laxity. A retrospective chart & histology review was performed on individuals who received bipolar MFR for facial rejuvenation. A total of 15 Koreans with a median age of 46 years were included. All participants underwent a single treatment session. The results were assessed objectively using serial photography and subjectively based on the participants' satisfaction scores. Histologic changes before, immediately after MFR and at 4months follow-up was examined. Complications were also recorded. Partially denatured collagen fibers and dermal shrinkage was observed immediately after MFR whereas an increase in elastin and collagen was noted at 4months follow-up. 86.7% of recipients considered the results satisfactory. Consensus ratings by two independent dermatologists on the objective outcomes at 4-month follow-up were very much improved (53.3%), much improved (26.7%) and improved (20%). Treatment was well tolerated and did not cause any significant long-lasting discomfort. Temperature-controlled bipolar MFR is a minimally invasive treatment option to consider for facial fine lines and laxity via neo-collagenesis and neo-elastogenesis. The procedure was safe and clinically effective.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Analysis of immediate use of sunscreen after microneedling

Microneedling promotes skin microlesions that lead to an inflammatory process, increasing cell proliferation, cell metabolism, and synthesis of collagen and elastin, therefore restoring skin integrity. This study aims to investigate the differences between the physical and the physical-chemical sunscreen application after microneedling, assessed through histological analysis. This was a two-phase study. The first phase investigated the physical and physical-chemical sunscreen penetration mixed with India ink through histological analysis. The sunscreens were applied after the microleakagein vivoon the skin of a volunteer who underwent abdominoplasty 24hours after the procedure. Histological analyses were carried out using optical and electron microscopy. The second phase analysed the skin reactions with the use of physical sunscreen after different microneedling treatments. The sample consisted of 30 volunteers distributed into three groups: G1 received the "Roller" microneedling, G2 received pen micropuncture treatment, and G3 received the fractional radiofrequency treatment. The histological analyses of the first phase indicated that the physical-chemical protection sunscreen penetrated more deeply, and pigment was found among the collagen fibres and the dermal fibroblast cytoplasm in comparison to the physical protection sunscreen, which had the pigment confined exclusively in the superficial epidermis layer. The second phase results demonstrated that the use of the physical protection sunscreen after the different microneedling techniques showed no adverse reactions such as itching, pain or soreness, and the hyperaemia. The proposed intervention showed that the use of physical protection sunscreen after different microneedling procedures is safe.

Commentary on: Bipolar Fractional Radiofrequency Treatment of Suprapatellar Skin Assessment Using Noninvasive Devices and Microbiopsy

Commentary on: Bipolar Fractional Radiofrequency Treatment of Suprapatellar Skin Assessment Using Noninvasive Devices and Microbiopsy

Bipolar Fractional Radiofrequency Treatment of Suprapatellar Skin Assessment Using Noninvasive Devices and Microbiopsy.

Noninvasive treatments for skin tightening are gaining popularity. However, no studies have assessed bipolar fractional radiofrequency treatment on suprapatellar skin. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of bipolar fractional radiofrequency treatment on suprapatellar skin. Twenty patients received 1 bilateral suprapatellar bipolar fractional radiofrequency treatment. They returned 7 days, 3 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months posttreatment. Noninvasive measurements were obtained at each visit, including high-resolution ultrasonography, optical coherence tomography, transepidermal water loss and skin elasticity. Microbiopsies were collected in the treatment area for histologic and gene expression analyses. Three clinicians completed photographic evaluations comparing texture and laxity at baseline vs 6 months posttreatment. Fifteen subjects completed all 6 visits. Both transepidermal water loss and dermal-epidermal junction roughness were increased at 3 weeks and 3 months posttreatment. Both attenuation coefficient and stiffness were increased significantly at 3 and 6 months posttreatment. Blood flow 0.5 mm below the surface and expression of epidermal hyaluronic acid and inflammatory genes IL-1b and IL-6 were significantly higher at 7 days posttreatment compared with pretreatment and 3 months posttreatment. There were no statistically significant changes in collagen- or elastin-related genes and proteins at 7 days or 3 months posttreatment. An improvement in texture and laxity was observed at 6 months posttreatment in 17.7% and 24.4% of photographs, respectively. Radiofrequency treatment by microneedling of suprapatellar skin shows limited effects in decreasing skin laxity and improving skin appearance. At a molecular level, the treatment resulted in lower elastin and hyaluronic acid levels and increased dermal-epidermal junction roughness based on histology and optical coherence tomography imaging.

Benefits of fractional radiofrequency treatment in patients with atrophic acne scars ‐ Literature review

Acne scars carry a huge physical and psychological impact on people. This article aims to evaluate the role of fractional radiotherapy in treatment of atrophic acne scars. The main objective includes providing an up-to-date review of existing literature, presenting the most significant studies conducted in this field. In order to study the impact of fractional radiotherapy on the appearance of atrophic acne scars, we conducted a search on Pubmed using the keywords "fractional radiotherapy", combined with/or "acne", "atrophic acne scars" and "acne scars" and found 75 papers, from which we selected 39. There are several therapeutic approaches for the improvement of acne scars with variable results and possible side effects. Fractional radiofrequency system has been used widely in the last years, as it turned out to be an effective treatment method, either in combination with other modalities, or alone. There are no generalized clinical guidelines adopted to standardize atrophic acne scar treatment. The multiple therapeutic options available create a dilemma in choosing the proper method in order to enhance its efficacy and to minimize its risks. The accumulated experience in nonablative collagen stimulating devices like fractional radiofrequency has proven that thickening of interstitial fibers in the dermis is possible with a controlled thermal injury, without epidermal damage and development of side effects.

Advanced fractional radiofrequency for the rejuvenation of face, neck, and décolleté.

Recently great attention has been paid to the rejuvenation of the face, neck, and décolleté of women with advanced radial fractional radiofrequency. We aimed to clinically evaluate the results obtained with this treatment method. We treated 10 women aged 42 to 62, suffering from skin aging. After carrying out the hydration and sebometry skin tests in each patient, collecting the medical history and taking photographs of the face and décolleté in the standard projections, a questionnaire was submitted to each patient. Finally, we have submitted the patients to one session of application of radiofrequency energy, by an Italian device named "Thuzzle" (GMV, Rome, Italy). The obtained results show a high effectiveness in improving the texture and tone of skin, decreasing micro wrinkles and spot reduction. Advanced radial fractional radiofrequency treatment method shows promising results. Further studies are required to confirm the findings.

Comparison of Moderate and High Energy of a Nano-Fractional Radiofrequency Treatment on a Photoaging Hairless Mice Model.

Fractional radiofrequency (FRF) has been widely used in skin rejuvenation. To explore optimal settings, it is important to compare different treatment parameters. This study was designed to compare the effect of moderate-energy and high-energy FRF treatment on a hairless mice model. Fifteen photoaged hairless mice were assigned to 3 groups: control, moderate energy, and high energy. Two treatment sessions (T × 1 and T × 2) were performed at 1-month interval. Transepidermal water loss was measured at baseline, immediately, 1, 2, and 4 weeks after T × 1. Skin samples were harvested before each treatment, 1 and 2 months after T × 2. Neocollagenesis was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry analysis. Transepidermal water loss of high-energy group was significantly higher than the moderate-energy group (p = .008) immediately after T × 1. Remarkable fibroblast proliferation was observed at 1 month after T × 1, followed by significant dermal thickening, and increase of Type I collagen and Type III collagen. There was no significant difference between 2 energy groups in fibroblast proliferation, dermal thickness, and collagen density. The effect of moderate-energy treatment was comparable with that of high energy in neocollagenesis, whereas moderate energy yielded less damage to skin barrier function.

Clinical evaluation of a novel fractional radiofrequency device for hair growth: Fractional radiofrequency for hair growth stimulation.

AGA is a common disorder. Different treatments are available to prevent hair loss and achieve hair growth with variable results. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel fractional radiofrequency (RF) device (HairLux, Innogen Technologies Ltd., Yokneam, Israel), to prevent hair loss and induce hair growth. Twenty-five patients received 10 fractional RF treatments every 2 weeks, and were followed up 2 months after the last treatment. All patients were evaluated by global photography. In 10 patients, blinded manual hair counts were performed. Patients demonstrated less hair shedding, fuller hair, and faster hair growth. There was an average increase of 31.6% in hair density (based on hair counts) and 18% increase in hair shaft thickness. All subjects tolerated the treatments well. The HairLux device is effective and safe for hair growth stimulation in AGA. Ten treatment sessions are recommended to maximize results.