The effects of radiofrequency on skin: Experimental study

Abstract

Background and Objective: Radiofrequency represents the most recent skin-rejuvenation treatment. The aim of this study was to study the changes in tissues and cells, as well as in the thickness and structure of the skin of guinea pigs following several sessions of radiofrequency. Materials and Methods: Six sessions (1 session/week) of radiofrequency (Thermafine Lift device, Grupo Solilá ser, S.L., Girona, Spain) were applied to the skin of guinea pigs. Biopsies were taken following each session and 2 months following the last application. The resultant samples were included in paraffin via the usual method, sectioned at 5 mm and stained with Haematoxylin-Eosin, Alcian blue, Toluidine blue, van Gieson's and Verhoeff's stains. These techniques were used in order to observe possible changes in the thickness and structures of the skin: mucopolysaccharides and collagen and elastic fibres. Results: The most relevant changes were found in the papillary dermis which underwent an expansion due to oedema and vascular congestion (first half of the experiment), followed by an increase in cellularity and the accumulation of intercellular substance. An increase in collagen, elastic fibres and mucopolysaccharides was observed. Conclusion: The Thermafine Lift device caused no significant macroscopic or microscopic alterations in the skin of guinea pigs, yet increased both the thickness, as well as the mucopolysaccharide, collagen and elastic-fibre content.

A novel radiofrequency device for the treatment of rhytides and lax skin: A pilot study

“…The mechanism of action after radiofrequency treatment is thought to be that of immediate collagen fibril contraction, followed by secondary collagen production and remodeling (16). Recently, Alvarez et al noted an expansion of the papillary dermis due to edema and vascular congestion followed by an increase in the thickness, cellularity (fibroblasts and histiocytes) and an accumulation of mucopolysaccharide, collagen and elastic fibers after radiofrequency treatment (17).…”

Efficacy of intradermal radiofrequency combined with autologous platelet‐rich plasma in striae distensae: a pilot study

“…These changes were followed by an increase in cellularity and an accumulation of intercellular substances. Subsequently, increases in collagen, elastic fibers, and mucopolysaccharides were observed 21 . These changes led to increased dermal thickness and collagen content 21 .…”

“… 21 used animal models to reveal interesting results on the effects of RF treatment on dermal cellularity and collagen formation. They found changes in the papillary dermis in the form of an expansion related to edema and vascular congestion 21 . These changes were followed by an increase in cellularity and an accumulation of intercellular substances.…”

Cellulite treatment

“…In a study by Alvarez et al [40] using animal models, they showed interesting results of RF treatment on dermal cellularity and collagen formation in guinea pigs. The most relevant changes were seen in the papillary dermis, which underwent expansion as a result of edema and vascular stimulation.…”