Treatment of Acne Scars on Darker Skin Types Using a Noninsulated Smooth Motion, Electronically Controlled Radiofrequency Microneedles Treatment System

Abstract

BACKGROUND 

Noninvasive technologies for treating acne scars use radiofrequency (RF)-emitting microneedles for both mechanical disruption of fibrotic strands and heat-mediated collagen remodeling.

OBJECTIVE 

Efficacy and safety evaluation of electronically controlled noninsulated RF microneedling system on acne scars in patients with dark skin.

METHODS 

Nineteen patients, 24 to 51 years old, skin types III to V, with acne scars were enrolled in the study. Each patient had 3 treatment sessions at monthly intervals using a multisource RF treatment platform with a microneedle RF applicator. Efficacy was evaluated by the Goodman and Barron's Global Qualitative Acne Scarring System.

RESULTS 

No bleeding points occurred during treatments. Post-treatment erythema was observed immediately after the treatment and lasted up to 10 hours after the treatment. Improvement of at least 1 acne scar grade was noted in 11 of 19 patients (57.9%) after 1 month and in 9 of 9 patients (100%) after 3 months.

CONCLUSION 

The tested noninsulated electronically controlled RF microneedles were found to be safe and efficient in the treatment of atrophic acne scars in skin types III to V with minimal pain or downtime.