Microneedle fractional radiofrequency associated with drug delivery for facial atrophic acne scars and skin rejuvenation

ABSTRACT

Microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFRF) has been used to improve photoaging and scars. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of MFRF with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) for facial atrophic acne scars and skin rejuvenation by blinded visual evaluation, self-report, and reflective confocal microscopy (RCM). Fifteen subjects were randomized to the MFRF with bFGF group and fifteen to the MFRF group. All subjects underwent three-session therapy and a follow-up period. Significant group differences were in ECCA, global improvement score, satisfaction, and downtime before and after treatment. Combination therapy could be more effective than monotherapy for acne scars and facial rejuvenation. In addition, RCM can be used to observe the changes in skin collagen before and after treatment in evaluating cosmetic efficacy.

KEYWORDS:

• microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFRF)
• basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)
• atrophic acne scar
• reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM)

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Ethical statement

This study has passed the ethical review and approval of the ethics committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University (NO. Quick-PJ 2022-01-37). The research process complies with the declaration of Helsinki. All subjects obtained written informed consent.

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by the Key Research and Development Program of Anhui Province, China [NO. 202004j07020034].