Efficacy of radiofrequency combined with single-dot ultrasound efficacy for skin rejuvenation: A non-randomized split-face trial with blinded response evaluation.

BACKGROUND

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and radiofrequency (RF) are non-invasive modalities for skin rejuvenation, but their combined effects have not been evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated and compared the efficacy of HIFU alone and combined HIFU and bipolar RF using a newly designed probe.

METHODS

Twenty-two Korean adults with facial wrinkles and aging underwent treatment on both sides of their face: HIFU-only on the left and HIFU combined with RF on the right. Skin parameters were measured at different time points to evaluate the improvement in skin rejuvenation.

RESULTS

HIFU treatment significantly improved skin parameters, including pore volume and number, skin elasticity, depth of eye wrinkles, degree of sagging in the eye area, nasolabial folds and cheeks, volume of the jawline, skin density, and permittivity. Furthermore, combining bipolar RF with HIFU treatment enhanced efficacy in reducing pore number, improving skin elasticity, diminishing eye wrinkle depth, and increasing skin moisturization. These findings indicate that bipolar RF can synergically improve skin rejuvenation by providing a thermal effect to the upper papillary dermis, which is more superficial than the target area of HIFU.

CONCLUSION

Combining HIFU with bipolar RF synergistically improves skin rejuvenation, including pore reduction, periorbital wrinkle improvement, skin elasticity, and skin moisturization.