A topical regimen improves skin healing and aesthetic outcomes when combined with a radiofrequency microneedling procedure

Abstract

Introduction: Novel topical products formulated using tri-and hexapeptide technology (TriHex Technology ® ; Alastin Skincare ® , Inc) are used to clear the extracellular matrix, stimulate neocollagenesis and elastogenesis, decrease inflammation, and accelerate the epidermal healing process. Aims:This study assessed the efficacy of two topical tri-and hexapeptide-containing products pre-and post-treatment with radiofrequency (RF) microneedling of the photoaged neck with respect to healing and aesthetic outcomes. Subjects/Methods: In this open-label, nonrandomized study, eligible subjects underwent one screening visit, one RF microneedling procedure and follow-up visits on post-treatment Days 3, 7, 30, and 90. Subjects were instructed to apply one product to the neck for 2 weeks prior to treatment and 7 days post-treatment. On post-treatment Day 7, subjects switched to the other product until the end of the study. At each visit, subject and investigator questionnaires were completed and standardized digital images were obtained. Results: Female subjects (N = 10) with a mean age of 51.3 years (range, 44-59 years) completed the study. All subjects achieved statistically significant improvements in Investigator Global Assessment scales at post-treatment Day 90 and reported improvement in all Skin Quality Assessments. Among Subjective Tolerability Assessments, all post-treatment reports of tingling and burning resolved by Day 3.90% of stinging resolved by Day 3 with 100% resolving by Day 7. 40% of subjects had minimal itching on Day 3 which resolved by Day 7. Among the Investigator Post-treatment Tolerability Assessments, edema resolved in all subjects by Day 3 and erythema settled between Day 3 and Day 7. Conclusion: Pre-and post-treatment use of topical products formulated with tri-and hexapeptide technology appears to hasten healing and complement aesthetic outcomes associated with RF microneedling of the neck. | 1281 GOLD et aL.

INDIVIDUAL ARTICLE: Algorithm for Nonenergy and Injectable Treatment Pre-/Post-Procedure Measures

“…24,25 The literature is inconsistent about the use of topical agents and skincare before and after the procedure. [30][31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38][39] Section 3: During the Procedure Before starting the procedure, the skin is free of makeup and should be cleansed with a gentle facial cleanser. 16 Agents such as isopropyl alcohol, chlorhexidine, or hypochlorous acid (HOCl) are frequently used for skin preparation for nonenergy and injectable treatments.…”

“…24 Common areas most likely to develop edema after treatment are under the eyes and in the neck. 24,30,33,36,50 The edema usually subsides within 3-5 days and regular use of icepacks may help. 24 AEs signs and symptoms may be resolved in a few days or take up to several weeks (Table 3).…”

Pre‐/postprocedure measures for minimally invasive, nonenergy aesthetic treatments: A survey

“…For example, because abrasion produces slight impairments of the skin barrier, 19 topical formulations used in conjunction with the procedure may reduce irritation and downtime. One previous study demonstrated the safety, tolerability and efficacy of a multi‐ingredient anti‐aging facial moisturizer, 20 when used pre‐ and postmicroneedling; while other investigators have shown that topical tri‐ and hexapeptide‐containing products hasten healing and complement aesthetic outcomes of microneedling 18 . Furthermore, by decreasing the severity and duration of the inflammatory period, the risks of causing a flare‐up of any pre‐existing inflammatory disease (eg, psoriasis, eczema, atopic, or contact dermatitis) may be reduced.…”

“…The development of a specially formulated topical cosmeceutical for use peri‐procedure may increase the safety and tolerability of nonenergy device‐based treatments 18 . Furthermore, additional improvements in multiple efficacy measures may be observed when combining the effects of the nonenergy‐based device treatment, with a topical skincare product.…”

Radiofrequency microneedling for acne, acne scars, and more

“…Several topical regimens have been studied, including a topical tri‐and hexapeptide serum that was applied to the treated region for 2 weeks before and 7 days after RFM treatment. Gold et al 9 concluded that this topical regimen enhanced the RFM device's results. Another study by the same group evaluated an antiaging multi‐ingredient lotion used twice daily for 2 weeks prior and 4 weeks post one RFM treatment in 15 patients.…”