An Open-label Study Assessing the Efficacy and Tolerability of a Post-treatment Skincare Protocol Following Radiofrequency Microneedling for Facial Rejuvenation.

Background: A post-treatment skincare protocol (Finishing Touch™ Protocol; Colorescience®, Inc.) comprising several commercial products was developed for use after minimally invasive facial procedures. Objective: Our objective was to assess the effect of this post-treatment protocol on subject experiences following radiofrequency microneedling including confidence to resume normal activities, treatment satisfaction and likelihood for retreatment. Methods: Healthy female subjects, aged 21 to 65 years with Fitzpatrick Skin Types I to IV seeking facial rejuvenation with radiofrequency microneedling were enrolled (N=29). The microneedling procedure was performed during the baseline visit. Digital images were obtained before and immediately following microneedling, and after post-procedure application of the skincare protocol. A nonmedicated barrier ointment was also applied prior to the skincare protocol immediately following treatment in a third group of subjects. Subsequently, the skincare protocol was applied each morning after regular skincare routines. Subjects returned after four weeks for a final assessment, a self-assessment questionnaire, and treatment satisfaction ratings. Results: Following skincare protocol application, most subjects (97%) observed improvements in skin redness and/or treatment site marks, felt more confident (90%) and were very or extremely comfortable resuming normal activities (86%). Mild-to-moderate adverse events (n=4) resolved and were consistent with adverse events reported in the literature with no bleeding immediately following the microneedling with radiofrequency treatment. Limitations: Primary limitations were the small number of subjects and self-reported outcomes. Conclusion: Based on our results, the studied post-treatment skincare protocol appeared to improve subject confidence, comfort, satisfaction, and the likelihood of a repeat radiofrequency microneedling procedure among the included patients. No reported adverse events incremental to standard microneedling were observed.