Zeitschrift für klinische und experimentelle Dermatologieforschung
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Abstrakt

Radiofrequency vs. Synchronized Radiofrequency and Targeted Ultrasound Technology for Enhanced Skin Hydration

Charles M Boyd1*, Suneel Chilukuri2

Objective: Skin aging is characterized by significant changes including the loss of collagen, elastin, and Hyaluronic Acid (HA), impacting skin moisture, elasticity, and overall health. Radiofrequency (RF) and Ultrasound (US) are wellrecognized modalities, typically utilized as independent procedures. Due to the novel device allowing simultaneous delivery of both energies in a single applicator, this study compares the effects of RF as a standalone treatment to simultaneous RF and Targeted Ultrasound (TUS) treatment

Methods: A prospective multi-center, two-arm study was conducted with forty-one (41) subjects (3 males, 38 females, 26-77 years, skin types I-VI), randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (N=21) treated with monopolar Radiofrequency+Targeted Ultrasound (RF+TUS), and Group B (N=20) treated with monopolar RF only. In each group, subjects received four (4) full-face treatments delivered once per week. Skin hydration was measured with a moisture meter following the final treatment session. Digital photographs were scored by three independent evaluators using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS scale) and 3D analysis was performed. Additionally, subject satisfaction and therapy comfort were assessed.

Results: At 3 months, group A achieved a marked improvement in the GAIS scale by +1.3 ± 0.1 points. 3D photographs demonstrated more profound results in Group A, achieving a skin texture improvement of +7.3 points (41.6%, p<0.05) at 3 months vs. Group B by +5.3 points (28.5%). While almost all subjects found both treatments comfortable, treatment satisfaction outcomes were higher in the RF+TUS group. The study demonstrated the synergistic effects of RF and TUS in enhancing skin hydration and overall quality, with no adverse events reported.

Conclusion: Analysis of facial skin hydration, and skin quality showed that simultaneous RF+TUS treatment has significantly better outcomes than single modality RF for improving the overall facial appearance. The results suggest that this novel treatment offers a potential non-invasive approach to skin rejuvenation, with implications for broader application in dermatological and aesthetic practices. However, further research addressing limitations like subject variability and long-term hydration effects is necessary to validate and expand upon these findings.