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

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency devices generate electromagnetic energy to induce dermal heating to a critical temperature of about 65 degrees C, causing collagen to shrink and contract, and this provides a non-ablative means to improve rhytides and lax skin. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel radiofrequency device (Photo Bio Care, Thailand) operating at a frequency of 1.75 MHz for the treatment of rhytides and lax skin in Asian patients. METHODS: Six female patients (age range, 30-60 years; mean age 48 years) with class I and II facial rhytides and Fitzpatrick skin types III and IV were treated six times at intervals of 2-3 weeks. The forehead, periorbital area, cheeks and nasolabial folds were treated using the following parameters monopolar mode, pulse duration of 5 s, frequency of 18 Hz, and power of 100 W. No preoperative anesthesia or postoperative treatment were used. The handpiece was applied to the skin in a continuous sweeping motion until the baseline skin temperature was elevated to 40 degrees C, as monitored with a laser thermometer, and this was maintained for 3 minutes. Clinical photographs were taken before, after the sixth treatment and 2 months after the last treatment. Analysis was undertaken through photographic evaluation by non-treating physicians. RESULTS: At 2 months after the last treatment, mild to moderate (25-50%) clinical improvement was noted in all patients compared to baseline, and all patients were somewhat satisfied with the treatment. The procedure was well tolerated with no unexpected side effects. Discomfort was rated as mild and post-treatment erythema resolved within 1-2 hours. CONCLUSION: Treatment with the radiofrequency device can result in mild to moderate clinical improvement of age-related rhytides and lax skin. The system is safe and inexpensive with no consumables required.