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Flegontova E, Kreindel M, Vranis NM, Mulholland RS. Correction of age-related changes in the skin at the dermal and subdermal level using radiofrequency macroneedling therapy. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024; 23:2401-2410. [PMID: 38778550 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The negative effects of skin aging are primarily related to the destruction of dermal architectural structure. More specifically, this includes changes in the spatial arrangement of collagen, elastin fibers, mucopolysaccharides, proteoglycans, and ground substances. AIMS The purpose of this study is to investigate the histologic effects of dermal and subdermal tissue after a controlled single treatment with radiofrequency (RF) macroneedling. This therapy provides a controlled, localized, thermal effect on the dermis whereby triggering the body's own healing processes of extracellular matrix remodeling. Clinically benefits include skin tightening. METHODS Biopsies were obtained for histologic evaluation from four patients (n = 4), 4 weeks after completing a single RF macroneedling facial treatment. RESULTS Age-related changes of the dermal and subdermal architecture were observed at baseline. After treatment, all biopsies demonstrated an increase in epidermal cells, collagen, elastin, fibroblasts, vasculature, and a decrease in inflammatory cells. CONCLUSIONS The results of this histologic study confirm a significant "subsurfacing" thermal effect from the noncoagulative ascendant thermal injury. The obtained results characterize RF macroneedling therapy as an effective method for correcting age-related changes in facial skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Flegontova
- Moscow Clinical Hospital by Speransky, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory Angiopharm Private Clinic, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Neil M Vranis
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Cedars Sinai Hospital, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Private Practice, Ghavami Plastic Surgery, Beverly Hills, California, USA
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Ai X, Chen L, Lan Y, Liu B, Song P, Wang J, Zhang Z. Efficacy and safety of a noninvasive, home-based radiofrequency device for facial rejuvenation: An open-label, intraindividual controlled trial. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024; 23:862-868. [PMID: 37942722 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wrinkle formation is the most visible characteristic of facial aging. Radiofrequency (RF) technology is currently utilized to reduce facial wrinkles and contribute to skin rejuvenation. OBJECTIVE To analyze the efficacy and safety of a noninvasive, home-based RF device applied for facial rejuvenation in Chinese people. METHODS A single-center, open-label, intraindividual controlled trial was performed on subjects who received an 8-week treatment of the RF device. A total of 22 female individuals aged 25-60 years with Fitzpatrick skin type III-IV were enrolled. Efficacy of treatment was subjectively evaluated using the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Classification Scale (FWCS) assessed by physician or overall satisfaction of subject with a 10-point VAS, and objectively using the skin ultrasound examination as well as the 3D skin analysis system. Adverse event was recorded at each visit. RESULTS In comparison with the baseline, evaluator-assessed FWCS scores showed significant improvement at 4 weeks (p < 0.005) and 8 weeks (p < 0.005) after treatment. All subjects reported different degrees of improvement in facial wrinkles after 8 weeks of treatment. The results of skin ultrasound examination revealed significant increase of the dermal thickness at week 8 (p < 0.05) as compared to the baseline. In addition, a significant decrease in the proportion and density of perioral wrinkles evaluated by the 3D skin analysis system was observed from baseline to week 4. The treatment was well-tolerated, and no serious adverse event was observed. CONCLUSION This noninvasive, home-based RF device was effective in improving skin texture and elasticity with a safe and well-tolerated treating procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuechen Ai
- Department of Dermatology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liuyu Chen
- Department of Dermatology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu Lan
- Department of Dermatology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ben Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pengfei Song
- Department of Dermatology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhenying Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Hongkong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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Wang H, Hamblin MR, Zhang Y, Xu Y, Wen X. Histological evaluation of monopolar and bipolar radiofrequency microneedling treatment in a porcine model. Lasers Surg Med 2024; 56:288-297. [PMID: 38334177 DOI: 10.1002/lsm.23768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Fractional radiofrequency microneedling (FRM) is widely used as an option for skin rejuvenation, however there is a lack of histological evidence for the various energy delivery systems available. The objective was to assess thermal denaturation of tissue and the wound healing response in monopolar mode versus bipolar mode. Histological analysis was performed to demonstrate the efficacy of automatic impedance feedback system in monopolar mode. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS In this study, the acute thermal effects caused by monopolar FRM treatment to the dorsal skin of pigs were assessed histologically by hematoxylin & eosin (H&E) staining. Then, one session of either monopolar or bipolar FRM was used to treat one or the other side of the pig using varying power levels and pulse widths. The acute and chronic tissue reactions were assessed using H&E, immunofluorescence, and western blot analysis at 0, 14, 30, and 90 days after treatment. The efficacy of the impedance feedback system was also monitored histologically. RESULTS High-energy FRM treatment produced tissue loss and necrosis. The power level and pulse duration significantly affected the coagulation amount. Histopathology at 0, 14, 30, and 90 days showed that the skin tissue reaction was more pronounced for bipolar compared to monopolar FRM. Immunofluorescence showed the expression of TGF-β, Ki67, MMP3, and elastin increased dramatically with both modes, but were higher in the bipolar FRM treated side. The automatic impedance feedback system could effectively adjust the output energy. CONCLUSIONS We found that bipolar FRM produced greater thermal effects, more collagen coagulation, and more pronounced molecular changes compared with monopolar mode in a porcine animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, South Africa
| | - Yi Zhang
- Research Core Facility of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yidan Xu
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Dermatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Wen
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Dermatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Gao Y, Che Q, He Q, Wang W, Luo W, Tong Y, Liu L, Tang Q, Xie Y, Zhou Z, Wa Q. Treatment of periorbital aging with negative pressure fractional microneedle radiofrequency: A self-controlled clinical trial. J Cosmet Dermatol 2023. [PMID: 38013586 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several treatment modalities are used for the treatment of periorbital rejuvenation with variable results. Recent studies showed that fractional radiofrequency may be an effective treatment modality for periorbital aging. This study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of negative pressure fractional microneedle radiofrequency (NPFMR) as a treatment for periorbital aging. METHODS Twenty-five patients with periorbital aging were involved in this study. They were treated two times with an interval of 1 month. The patients were evaluated before treatment and 1, 3, and 6 months after the final treatment. RESULTS The research findings suggest that periorbital wrinkles of the patients were significantly improved by VISIA system (p < 0.05). Physiological indicators detected by MPA10 system showed that compared with before treatment, the hydration increased (p < 0.05) and trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) decreased (p < 0.05) at 3 and 6 months after treatment. The glossiness increased at 1 month after treatment compared to pre-treatment (p < 0.05) and returned to the baseline level at 3 and 6 months after treatment. There was no significant change in melanin content (p > 0.05). Periorbital dermal thickness of the patients significantly increased at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment according to skin ultrasound (p < 0.05). A periorbital skin biopsy revealed that the collagen fibers in the dermis were significantly thicker and more orderly after treatment, and the expression of type I collagen fibers and elastic fibers was increased compared with that before treatment. One patient developed post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) at 1 month after the first treatment, which improved after active treatment. No other adverse reactions were observed. CONCLUSIONS NPMFR could be an effective and safe treatment modality for the treatment of periorbital aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulian Gao
- Medical Cosmetic Center, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Qilei Che
- Medical Cosmetic Center, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiang He
- Medical Cosmetic Center, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenju Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Wangsha Luo
- Department of Dermatology, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yao Tong
- Department of Dermatology, Chengdu First People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Lufeng Liu
- Medical Cosmetic Center, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiuyue Tang
- Medical Cosmetic Center, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuhong Xie
- Medical Cosmetic Center, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Zixuan Zhou
- Medical Cosmetic Center, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingbiao Wa
- Medical Cosmetic Center, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
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Kneiber D, Amin M, Nguyen TA, Gharavi NM. Review of radiofrequency microneedling: history, devices and uses. J COSMET LASER THER 2023; 25:59-64. [PMID: 37844087 DOI: 10.1080/14764172.2023.2268308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Radiofrequency microneedling (RFM) has recently become a popular choice for the treatment of various dermatologic conditions and rejuvenation. Many studies have sought to evaluate the efficacy of RFM. However, its role in the management of these conditions remains unclear. A comprehensive literature search including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case series evaluating the efficacy of RFM in various skin conditions was performed. In this review, we discuss the history and mechanism of RFM, describe various device features, and discuss the use of RFM in various skin conditions and rejuvenation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Kneiber
- Department of Dermatology, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mina Amin
- Department of Dermatology, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tuyet A Nguyen
- Department of Dermatology, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nima M Gharavi
- Department of Dermatologic Surgery & Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
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Shauly O, Marxen T, Menon A, Gould DJ, Miller LB, Losken A. Radiofrequency Microneedling: Technology, Devices, and Indications in the Modern Plastic Surgery Practice. Aesthet Surg J Open Forum 2023; 5:ojad100. [PMID: 38887534 PMCID: PMC11181949 DOI: 10.1093/asjof/ojad100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Since the initial invention of microneedling, advancements have been made to improve the desired effects. The addition of radiofrequency to microneedling devices was developed within the past decade as a way to induce thermal injury and increase dermal heating to enhance the dermal wound healing cascade. Objectives With an overabundance of literature and mainstream media focused on microneedling and radiofrequency microneedling, this review aims to focus on the available high-quality evidence. Methods A comprehensive review of the literature was performed across PubMed (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD) and Embase (Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands) databases. Attention was focused on manuscripts that provided objective data with respect to clinical application, innovation, anatomy, and physiology. Results Optimal outcomes are achieved when needle depth is targeted to the reticular dermis. Needle depth should reflect the relative differences in epidermal and dermal thickness throughout the face. A depth of at least 1.5 mm should be used for the forehead and temporal skin, 1.0 mm for the malar region, 2.0 mm (maximum depth for radiofrequency microneedling) for the nasal side walls, 0.5 mm for the perioral skin, and 1.5 mm for the neck. Deeper settings can be used with care to provide some fat reduction in the submentum. Conclusions The authors find herein that radiofrequency microneedling is a safe adjunctive tool to surgical aesthetic procedures. The addition of radiofrequency poses an advance over traditional microneedling devices for skin tightening, with improvements in both safety and efficacy over time. Level of Evidence 5
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Affiliation(s)
- Orr Shauly
- Corresponding Author: Dr Orr Shauly, Division of Plastic Surgery, Emory University, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. E-mail: ; Instagram: @orrshaulymd
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Alexiades M. Radiofrequency Microneedling. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am 2023; 31:495-502. [PMID: 37806682 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsc.2023.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Radiofrequency microneedling is a technique that allows energy to be delivered to specified target depths in the skin via needle electrodes and measures temperature and impedance within the tissue. This method of delivery and real-time feedback has increased safety and efficacy, providing clinically significant improvements in skin laxity, rhytids, and cellulite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macrene Alexiades
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center of New York, NY, USA.
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8
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Radiofrequency and Radiofrequency Microneedling in Skin of Color: A Review of Usage, Safety, and Efficacy. Dermatol Surg 2023; 49:489-493. [PMID: 36826381 DOI: 10.1097/dss.0000000000003733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiofrequency (RF) and radiofrequency microneedling (RFM) for rhytides, scarring, and skin rejuvenation are believed to have a lower risk of postprocedural dyspigmentation in darker skin types. OBJECTIVE To explore the safety and efficacy of RF and RFM in Fitzpatrick skin Types III to VI. METHODS AND MATERIALS A systematic review of PubMed/MEDLINE databases from 2000 to 2021 using combinations of the terms radiofrequency, microneedling, skin of color, and Fitzpatrick was performed. Exclusion criteria included non-Fitzpatrick skin Types III-VI patient population, nonprimary articles, nonskin radiofrequency, and nonhuman studies. RESULTS Thirty-five articles addressing the use of RF or RFM in skin of color were identified-22 for skin rejuvenation, 7 for acne scars, 4 for nonacne scars, 1 for hyperpigmentation, and 1 for acne treatment. Seven studies noted transient postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, 1 observed mild prolonged hyperpigmentation, and only 1 study reported permanent scarring. CONCLUSION Radiofrequency and RFM seem to have a low risk of scarring or hyperpigmentation in skin of color. This review demonstrates that these procedures have been successfully used primarily for rhytides, acne scarring, and skin rejuvenation. However, a large proportion of the studies lack strong quality evidence.
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9
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Ramot Y, Vazana U, Cacical O, Nyska A. Safety and efficacy of a novel robotic, fractional micro-coring device in a swine model. J Toxicol Pathol 2023; 36:11-19. [PMID: 36683728 PMCID: PMC9837470 DOI: 10.1293/tox.2022-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Laser resurfacing may be accompanied by unwanted side effects. The micro coring technology, designed to remove small skin columns, was developed to avoid the thermal injury associated with lasers. However, very limited data are available on its pre-clinical efficacy and safety. The novel robotic, fractional micro-coring device, AimeTM, was tested on four pigs, each treated in 12 sites, at 6 time-points, over the course of 28 days. Macroscopic and microscopic evaluation was performed at each of the 6 time-points during the 28-day follow-up. Macroscopically, treatment resulted in erythema and mild edema that quickly resolved. Microscopically, there was progressive re-coverage of the tested sites with complete, well differentiated, newly formed epidermis, associated with efficient elimination of the underlying excised dermis, which was replaced by maturing fibroplasia. Some of the sites demonstrated complete healing already after 7 days. No significant adverse events were noted with the use of the device. The use of the micro-coring device AimeTM in a porcine model for skin fractional micro-excision and resurfacing was effective and safe. The comprehensive gradual healing process shown in this study with detailed histopathological images can also serve as a basis for future pre-clinical studies of fractional ablative devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Ramot
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Campus
Ein Kerem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel,Department of Dermatology, Hadassah Medical Center, Campus
Ein Kerem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | | | | | - Abraham Nyska
- Consultant in Toxicologic Pathology, Yehuda HaMaccabi 31,
Tel Aviv 6200515, Israel, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978,
Israel,*Corresponding author: A Nyska (e-mail: )
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Radiofrequency Microneedling for Skin Tightening of the Lower Face, Jawline, and Neck Region. Dermatol Surg 2022; 48:1299-1305. [DOI: 10.1097/dss.0000000000003607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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Har-Shai L, Ofek SE, Cohen S, Cohen KH, Yaacobi DS, Olshinka A, Dibbs RP, Ad-El DD. Israeli Innovations in the Field of Plastic Surgery. Semin Plast Surg 2022; 36:55-65. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1748916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AbstractNumerous innovations within the field of plastic surgery have been developed in Israel over the last few decades. Many of these therapeutic devices and techniques have been established globally with demonstrable efficacy and respectable safety profiles. This article offers an overview of recent Israeli cutting-edge medical therapeutic solutions contributing to the global practice of plastic surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lior Har-Shai
- Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery & Burns, Rabin Medical Center – Beilinson Hospital, Petach Tikva, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sar-El Ofek
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Stav Cohen
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Keren H. Cohen
- Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery & Burns, Rabin Medical Center – Beilinson Hospital, Petach Tikva, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dafna Shilo Yaacobi
- Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery & Burns, Rabin Medical Center – Beilinson Hospital, Petach Tikva, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Asaf Olshinka
- Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery & Burns, Rabin Medical Center – Beilinson Hospital, Petach Tikva, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Rami P. Dibbs
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine. Houston, Texas
| | - Dean D. Ad-El
- Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery & Burns, Rabin Medical Center – Beilinson Hospital, Petach Tikva, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Gulfan MCB, Wanitphakdeedecha R, Wongdama S, Jantanapornchai N, Yan C, Rakchart S. Efficacy and Safety of Using Noninsulated Microneedle Radiofrequency Alone Versus in Combination with Polynucleotides for the Treatment of Melasma: A Pilot Study. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2022; 12:1325-1336. [PMID: 35538360 PMCID: PMC9209614 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-022-00728-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction This split-face, double-blind, randomized controlled study investigated the efficacy and safety of using a microneedling radiofrequency (RF) device with polynucleotides (PN) versus RF alone for the treatment of melasma. Methods Thirty adult participants with melasma (Fitzpatrick skin types III–V) received three treatments with an invasive, bipolar, pulsed-type microneedling RF device on both sides of the face. The treatment sessions occurred once every 2 weeks. The hemifaces of each participant were designated for treatment and control with PN and normal saline solution (NSS), applied after treatment with RF. Measurements were made of melanin index (MI), erythema index (EI), skin roughness (by the Antera 3D system), modified melasma area severity index (mMASI) for each hemiface, and patients’ self-assessed improvement. These occurred at baseline and again following the final treatment (2 weeks and 1, 2, 3, and 6 months after). Mean values were obtained for MI, EI, skin roughness, and mMASI. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to compare the obtained values for the outcome measures across all assessment points. Results All patients were women (mean age, 43.2 ± 7.0 years). Mixed melasma predominated (61.5%; n = 16), and the mean duration of melasma was 8.9 ± 6.5 years. Twenty-six participants were followed up to the 6-month assessment point. Significant improvements were observed from baseline in MI, skin roughness, and mMASI scores for both the PN and control sides at 6 months, with no statistically significant differences between sides. Patients’ self-assessed improvement scores also showed a positive trend. Melasma recurrence was observed in three patients at 2, 3, and 4 months after the last treatment session (10% recurrence rate). Conclusions The combination of an invasive, bipolar, pulsed-type microneedling RF with PN is not superior compared with microneedling RF alone in the treatment of melasma. Microneedling RF may be considered as safe and efficacious for the improvement of skin roughness, and as an adjunctive treatment option for melasma. Clinical Trial Registration This study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov and assigned NCT number TCTR20210804002.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma Christina B Gulfan
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Supisara Wongdama
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nuttagarn Jantanapornchai
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chadakan Yan
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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