Radiofrequency Improves Facial Fine Lines by Thermal Effect: Damage or Just Stimulation?

• Published in: Journal of cosmetic dermatology 2025-01, Vol.24 (1), p.e16600
• Main Authors: Bai, Yubing, Ni, Wei, Zhang, Yiqiu, Jiang, Zhixuan, Zhou, Shengzhe, Yao, Min
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Animals; Collagen - radiation effects; Cosmetic Techniques - adverse effects; Cosmetic Techniques - instrumentation; Face; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Original; Radiofrequency Therapy - adverse effects; Radiofrequency Therapy - methods; Rejuvenation; Skin - radiation effects; Skin Aging - radiation effects; Swine; Swine, Miniature; Thermography; Treatment Outcome
• ISSN: 1473-2130; 1473-2165; 1473-2165
• DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16600

Radiofrequency (RF) has been widely used for rejuvenation treatments, but without knowledge of the effective temperature of the target tissues or guidance on treatment parameters, it often leads to adverse reactions and pain. The aim of this study was to demonstrate that thermal stimulation can produce facial rejuvenation effects and to determine the optimal bipolar RF treatment parameters for treating facial fine lines. A bipolar RF device combined with CORE Technology was used in this study. Ex vivo studies were conducted on both miniature swine and human skin, utilizing thermographic thermometry and histological analysis. In vivo swine studies were conducted using histological analysis and electron microscopy. A clinical trial was conducted, and the results were evaluated using the Alexiades Comprehensive Grading Scale (ACGS) and Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) scales. The bipolar RF technology can produce a significant effect by thermally stimulating collagen within just 2 weeks without causing thermal damage. A clinical trial involving 46 patients showed a noticeable rejuvenating effect of the bipolar RF device, especially on fine wrinkles. This study confirmed that thermal stimulation, rather than thermal damage, is sufficient to achieve rejuvenation effects. The study also found a range of bipolar RF treatment parameters that are both safe and effective for facial fine lines.