Fractional radiofrequency
microneedling is a novel radiofrequency technique that uses insulated microneedles to deliver energy to the deep dermis at the point of penetration without destruction of the epidermis. It has been used for the treatment of various dermatological conditions including wrinkles, atrophic
scars and
hypertrophic scars. There have been few studies evaluating the efficacy of fractional radiofrequency
microneedling in the treatment of
acne, and none measuring objective parameters like the number of inflammatory and non-inflammatory
acne lesions or sebum excretion levels. The safety and efficacy of fractional radiofrequency
microneedling in the treatment of
acne vulgaris was investigated. In a prospective clinical trial, 25 patients with moderate to severe
acne were treated with fractional radiofrequency
microneedling. The procedure was carried out three times at 1-month intervals.
Acne lesion count, subjective satisfaction score, sebum excretion level and adverse effects were assessed at baseline and at 4, 8 and 12 weeks after the first treatment as well as 4, 8 and 12 weeks after the last treatment. Number of
acne lesions (inflammatory and non-inflammatory) decreased. Sebum excretion and subjective satisfaction were more favorable at every time point compared with the baseline values (P < 0.05). Inflammatory lesions responded better than non-inflammatory lesions (P < 0.05). Adverse effects such as pinpoint
bleeding,
pain and
erythema were noted, but were transient and not severe enough to stop treatment. Fractional radiofrequency
microneedling is a safe and effective treatment for
acne vulgaris.