Clinical evaluation of the efficacy and safety of combined bipolar radiofrequency and optical energies vs. optical energy alone for the treatment of aging hands.

Different treatment modalities are used for the treatment and esthetic improvement of aging hands. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel technology, which combines bipolar radio frequency (RF) and optical energies for the cosmetic treatment of aging hands. The objective of the study was to assess the efficacy, safety, tolerability, and patient satisfaction of combined bipolar radiofrequency and optical energies vs. optical energy alone for the treatment of aging hands. Thirteen female patients with solar lentigines on the back of the hands were enrolled. Participants received three treatments: combined RF and intense pulsed light (IPL) on one hand and IPL treatment alone on the other. Standardized clinical photographs were taken, and patient and investigator improvement assessment (Global Esthetic Improvement (GAI) scale), patient satisfaction, and tolerability were evaluated. At the 1 and 3 months follow-up, skin laxity and pigmentation, investigator and patient improvement assessments, and satisfaction were significantly better in the hand treated with combined bipolar RF and IPL. This study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of combining RF and optical energies for the esthetic improvement of aging hands. Combined RF and IPL treatment was more efficient than IPL alone in improving skin pigmentation, skin laxity, and texture.