1. Radiofrequency and Radiofrequency Microneedling in Skin of Color: A Review of Usage, Safety, and Efficacy.
- Author
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Syder, Nicole C., Chen, Alessandra, and Elbuluk, Nada
- Subjects
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HUMAN skin color , *RADIO frequency , *HYPERPIGMENTATION , *SCARS , *ACNE , *MICRONEEDLING - Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency (RF) and radiofrequency microneedling (RFM) for rhytides, scarring, and skin rejuvenation are believed to have a lower risk of postprocedural dyspigmentation in darker skin types. OBJECTIVE: To explore the safety and efficacy of RF and RFM in Fitzpatrick skin Types III to VI. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A systematic review of PubMed/MEDLINE databases from 2000 to 2021 using combinations of the terms radiofrequency, microneedling, skin of color, and Fitzpatrick was performed. Exclusion criteria included non-Fitzpatrick skin Types III-VI patient population, nonprimary articles, nonskin radiofrequency, and nonhuman studies. RESULTS: Thirty-five articles addressing the use of RF or RFM in skin of color were identified—22 for skin rejuvenation, 7 for acne scars, 4 for nonacne scars, 1 for hyperpigmentation, and 1 for acne treatment. Seven studies noted transient postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, 1 observed mild prolonged hyperpigmentation, and only 1 study reported permanent scarring. CONCLUSION: Radiofrequency and RFM seem to have a low risk of scarring or hyperpigmentation in skin of color. This review demonstrates that these procedures have been successfully used primarily for rhytides, acne scarring, and skin rejuvenation. However, a large proportion of the studies lack strong quality evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
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