Radiofrequency Microneedling: A Comprehensive and Critical Review.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Many studies have evaluated radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) in various dermatologic conditions. However, the efficacy and safety of RFMN, and how it compares with other energy-based devices in a clinician's armamentarium, remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE:

To review higher-quality evidence supporting RFMN and the dermatologic conditions which it can be used in.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A search was conducted in MEDLINE and EMBASE from inception to May 13, 2020, using the terms: "radiofrequency microneedling" OR "fractional radiofrequency" OR "radiofrequency needling" OR "radiofrequency percutaneous collagen induction." Only randomized, split body or blinded studies with original data on humans were included. Non-English or non-dermatology-related studies were excluded.

RESULTS:

Forty-two higher-quality studies were included after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. There were 14 studies for skin rejuvenation, 7 for acne scars, 6 for acne vulgaris, 5 each for striae and axillary hyperhidrosis, 2 for melasma, and 1 each for rosacea, cellulite, and androgenetic alopecia.

CONCLUSION:

Radiofrequency microneedling is an effective intervention that can be used repeatedly and safely in combination with other treatment modalities and in individuals with darker skin phototypes. Radiofrequency microneedling-induced dermal remodeling and neocollagenesis are slow and progressive but continue to improve even 6 months after treatment.

• Authors: Marcus G Tan, Christine E Jo, Anne Chapas, Shilpi Khetarpal, Jeffrey S Dover
• Journal: Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (Dermatol Surg) Vol. 47 Issue 6 Pg. 755-761 (06 01 2021) ISSN: 1524-4725 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 33577211 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2021 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Collagen

Topics

• Acne Vulgaris (therapy)
• Cicatrix (therapy)
• Collagen (biosynthesis)
• Cosmetic Techniques
• Dry Needling (adverse effects, instrumentation, methods)
• Humans
• Hyperhidrosis (therapy)
• Needles (adverse effects)
• Radiofrequency Therapy (adverse effects, instrumentation, methods)
• Rejuvenation
• Skin (metabolism, radiation effects)
• Skin Aging (radiation effects)
• Skin Pigmentation
• Treatment Outcome