Therapeutic Effects of New Pulsed-Type Microneedling Radiofrequency for Refractory Facial Pigmentary Disorders

Abstract

BACKGROUND Numerous treatments for pigmentary disorders have been used with variable outcomes. Recently, a new radiofrequency (RF) device with minimal pulse duration has been introduced. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a pulsed-type microneedling RF device for treatment of facial pigmentary disorders. METHODS Forty-four patients diagnosed with facial melasma or Riehl melanosis received 5 treatments with RF at 2-week intervals, and evaluation was performed at each visits, including 4 and 8 weeks after the last treatment. Treatment outcomes were evaluated by investigator global assessment, patient global assessment score, and skin biophysical parameters of erythema index, melanin index (MI), and transepidermal water loss. Gene array and immunohistochemical staining including melan-A, Fontana silver, CD44, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and periodic acid-Schiff were performed. RESULTS Most of the patients showed clinical improvement. Erythema index, MI, and transepidermal water loss decreased after the first treatment. Histopathologic examination showed decrease of melanin pigment, melanophages, and blood vessel proliferation but thickened basement membrane after treatment. Expression of CD44 and b-FGF was decreased after treatment. There were no serious adverse events reported during the study. CONCLUSION Pulsed-type microneedling RF could be a treatment option for facial pigmentary disorders.