BACKGROUND: Multiple therapies involving ablative and nonablative techniques have been developed for rejuvenation of photodamaged skin. Monopolar radiofrequency (RF) is emerging as a gentler, nonablative skin-tightening device that delivers uniform heat to the dermis at a controlled depth. OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the clinical effects and objectively quantified the histologic changes of the nonablative RF device in the treatment of photoaging. METHODS: Six individuals of Fitzpatrick skin type III to IV and Glogau class I to II wrinkles were subjected to 3 months of treatment (6 sessions at 2-week intervals). Standard photographs and skin biopsy specimens were obtained at baseline, and at 3 and 6 months after the start of treatment. We performed quantitative evaluation of total elastin, collagen types I and III, and newly synthesized collagen using computerized histometric and immunohistochemical techniques. Blinded photographs were independently scored for wrinkle improvement. RESULTS: RF produced noticeable clinical results, with high satisfaction and corresponding facial skin improvement. Compared with the baseline, there was a statistically significant increase in the mean of collagen types I and III, and newly synthesized collagen, while the mean of total elastin was significantly decreased, at the end of treatment and 3 months posttreatment. LIMITATIONS: A limitation of this study is the small number of patients, yet the results show a significant improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Although the results may not be as impressive as those obtained by ablative treatments, RF is a promising treatment option for photoaging with fewer side effects and downtime.
BACKGROUND: Multiple therapies involving ablative and nonablative techniques have been developed for rejuvenation of photodamaged skin. Monopolar radiofrequency (RF) is emerging as a gentler, nonablative skin-tightening device that delivers uniform heat to the dermis at a controlled depth. OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the clinical effects and objectively quantified the histologic changes of the nonablative RF device in the treatment of photoaging. METHODS: Six individuals of Fitzpatrick skin type III to IV and Glogau class I to II wrinkles were subjected to 3 months of treatment (6 sessions at 2-week intervals). Standard photographs and skin biopsy specimens were obtained at baseline, and at 3 and 6 months after the start of treatment. We performed quantitative evaluation of total elastin, collagen types I and III, and newly synthesized collagen using computerized histometric and immunohistochemical techniques. Blinded photographs were independently scored for wrinkle improvement. RESULTS:RF produced noticeable clinical results, with high satisfaction and corresponding facial skin improvement. Compared with the baseline, there was a statistically significant increase in the mean of collagen types I and III, and newly synthesized collagen, while the mean of total elastin was significantly decreased, at the end of treatment and 3 months posttreatment. LIMITATIONS: A limitation of this study is the small number of patients, yet the results show a significant improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Although the results may not be as impressive as those obtained by ablative treatments, RF is a promising treatment option for photoaging with fewer side effects and downtime.
Authors: Jaekwan Kim; Ji-Hye Jang; Ji Hae Lee; Jin Kyu Choi; Woo-Ram Park; Il-Hong Bae; Joonho Bae; Jin Woo Park Journal: Pharm Res Date: 2012-03-08 Impact factor: 4.200
Authors: Hyuk Kim; Kui Young Park; Sun Young Choi; Hyun-Ju Koh; Sun-Young Park; Won-Seok Park; Il-Hong Bae; Beom Joon Kim Journal: Ann Dermatol Date: 2014-07-31 Impact factor: 1.444