Biometric changes of skin parameters in using of microneedling fractional radiofrequency for skin tightening and rejuvenation facial.

BACKGROUND Fractional radiofrequency (RF) has been used for skin rejuvenation and tightening by dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons in recent years. METHODS Twenty female patients (mean age of 51.9 years) with Fitzpatrick III to VI skin phototypes who desired to undergo skin lift/tightening received six sessions of fractional microneedle RF treatment and were assessed at baseline and then 3 months after the last session for biometric characteristics using a Colorimeter, Visioface 1000D, Tewameter, Cutometer, Mexameter, and Sebumeter and a skin ultrasound imaging system to evaluate the transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin pores, color, melanin content, erythema, sebaceous content, and thickness and density of the epidermis and dermis. Patient satisfaction with visual analog scale (VAS) was also measured. RESULTS The results showed that skin pores and spots decreased significantly. TEWL also decreased significantly (by 18.44%). Meanwhile, skin density increased significantly (R7, by 44.41%). The ultrasonographic assessments showed that both the density and thickness of the dermis and epidermis were increased. The changes in the other parameters were not significant. CONCLUSION FR increases the density and thickness of the dermis and thus also increases the collagen content and decreases skin pores and TEWL.