Objective Evaluation of the Clinical Efficacy of Fractional Radiofrequency Treatment for Acne Scars and Enlarged Pores in Asian Skin

Abstract

Fractional bipolar RF provides clinical efficacy with safety in acne scars and enlarged pores through dermal matrix remodeling combined with tolerable epidermal ablation.

Clinical studies of the treatment of facial atrophic acne scars and acne with a bipolar fractional radiofrequency system

“…1 Previously, the histological changes produced by the same bipolar FRF devices have been examined in biopsy examinations of acne scar skin tissue. 15,20,21 Omi et al reported remodeling of the dermis to replace acne scar-associated morphological and ultrastructural irregularities with a more normal architecture, particularly in the case of elastic fibers and over-deposition of elastin. 20 Kim et al 15 discovered increases in the levels of procollagen types I and III, as well as elastin.…”

“…15,20,21 Omi et al reported remodeling of the dermis to replace acne scar-associated morphological and ultrastructural irregularities with a more normal architecture, particularly in the case of elastic fibers and over-deposition of elastin. 20 Kim et al 15 discovered increases in the levels of procollagen types I and III, as well as elastin. In addition, in our previous study of atrophic acne scars we observed the thermal denaturation of peri-hair follicle collagen, hair follicles and sebaceous glands.…”

“…6 In contrast to most lasers that target specific chromophores, RF radiation is affected by the electrical properties of the target tissue and is chromophore-independent and, thus, is expected to be safer for all skin types. 7 This system has been found to have significant beneficial effects on atrophic acne scars or acnes, whilst only causing minor side-effects, [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15] but few clinical studies have examined the efficacy and safety of bipolar FRF treatment in Asian populations.…”

Facial Pores

“…28 Fractional bipolar RF provides clinical efficacy with safety for treatment of acne scars and enlarged pores through dermal matrix remodeling combined with tolerable epidermal ablation. 29 Intense pulsed light, combined with intensified pulsed optical and bipolar RF devices also seem to be effective for reducing pores and skin rejuvenation with minimal risk (Table 1). 30,31 The SL structure of enlarged pores bears similarity to the characteristic structures of acne scars, as reported by Kligman 37 ; therefore, various treatments for acne scars could be applied in treating enlarged pores.…”

26 Facial Rejuvenation Using Energy Devices

“…26.8), scar treatment, and pore size reduction. 16,17,18,19 the noninsulated distal tip delivers RF current. Usually it employs bipolar needles and the electric current runs between the needles.…”