Safety and efficacy of a microneedle fractional radiofrequency for facial photoaging

Objective Microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFR) is a novel method for rejuvenation that combines radiofrequency and microneedles. The aim of this study was to evaluate prospectively the efficacy and safety of MFR in the treatment of facial photoaging. Methods Between December 2017 and December 2018, a total of 24 female subjects with facial photoaging aged 45 to 60 (45.9±8.7)years, the course of 1 to 20 (8.88±5.06) years, were collected from the Department of Dermatology, Pepole's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. They received 3 treatments at 4-week intervals. Global scores for photoaging (GSP) were evaluated at baseline, after 1 treatment and 3 treatments respectively. Facial wrinkles, skin texture, pigmentation, telangiectasia, and skin tightness were evaluated by the 4-point method after 1 treatment and 3 treatments respectively. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used for self-assessment of pain during treatment. At the third treatment self assessment on the degree of satisfaction with therapeutic effects was conducted in subiects. The adverse reactions were evaluated at every treatment immediately and the third day and seventh day. Results The GSP score of 24 subjects before treatment was (2.83±0.92), (2.25± 0.95) after 1 treatment, and (1.67±0.48) after 3 treatments. The difference between before and after 1 treatment was statistically significant (t=2.17, P<0.05), and between before and after 3 treatments, the difference was statistically significant (t=5.52, P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in facial wrinkles, skin texture and skin tightness improvement scores between the first treatment and the third treatment (t=5.48, 3.88, 5.46, P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in pigmentation and telangiectasia scores between the first treatment and the third treatment (t=2.46 and 2.17, P<0.05). After the third treatment, the VAS value was 3.2±1.2, indicating mild to moderate pain. The total satisfactory rate of the 24 subjects was 83.33%. The subjects had no adverse reactions. Conclusions MFR can effectively improve the symptoms of facial photoaging without obvious adverse reactions. Key words: Microneedle; Radio frequency; Photoaging; Rejuvenation; Safety