Sublative rejuvenation: experience with a new fractional radiofrequency system for skin rejuvenation and repair.

Several laser-based ablative resurfacing and nonablative rejuvenation technologies offer non-surgical options for improving the appearance of the skin. Although efficacy and good safety profiles have been demonstrated, limitations do exist with these systems. A more recent technology has been developed that employs fractionated bipolar radiofrequency (RF) energy. Referred to as "sublative rejuvenation," the treatment improves skin appearance while addressing some of the limitations of both ablative resurfacing and nonablative skin rejuvenation. This article describes the technology and reports on the authors' experience with it in clinical practice. Unlike fractional ablative laser treatments, which can disrupt 10-70% of the epidermis and most of the effect is in the epidermis, the sublative rejuvenation technique impacts only up to 5% of the epidermis and most of the effect is in the dermis. As a result, healing is rapid and downtime is minimal. The treatment is appropriate for all skin types and is an effective alternative for patients with darker skin who may be at risk for hyperpigmentation from laser treatments.