Nonablative monopolar radiofrequency for the reduction of facial pores and sebum excretion in Thai patients: A novel approach

Abstract

Background: Enlarged facial pores are visible topographic features of the skin that have been associated with cutaneous photoaging and increased sebum production. It has remained a common dermatologic concern, gaining a significant number of in-clinic consults. Available treatment modalities often operate on a single mode of action, consequently offering limited and short-term outcomes.Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of a nonablative monopolar radiofrequency (NMRF) for pore tightening and sebum output reduction in Thai patients. Methods: Nineteen patients with enlarged pores underwent two sessions of NMRF treatments at 4-week intervals. The measurements of pore volume, skin texture, average pore size, sebum production, and skin elasticity were quantified using Antera ® 3D imaging system, dermoscopic image analysis with ImageJ software, Sebumeter ® and Cutometer ® . Clinical evaluation by two dermatologists was done using blinded clinical photographs. All objective and subjective assessments were done at the baseline, a month after the first treatment, and during follow-up visits 1, 3, and 6 months after the last treatment. Adverse effects were also recorded during each visit. Results: Seventeen out of the 19 subjects completed the study protocol. The mean pore volume significantly reduced by 24% from the baseline at 1 month after the first treatment (p < 0.016). The pore volume continued to decrease by 34% and 38% a month (p < 0.001) and 6 months (p < 0.001) following the final treatment, respectively. Sebum excretion likewise significantly decreased from baseline by 39% (p = 0.002) and 36% (p < 0.001), 3 and 6 months after the second treatment, respectively. Skin texture and elasticity also significantly improved following two NMRF sessions. The objective assessments of the pore appearance corresponded to subjective clinical evaluations. The treatment was well-tolerated without significant side effects, such as dyspigmentation, textural alteration, and scarring. Conclusion: NMRF appears to be effective and safe for the reduction of pore size and sebum production, with therapeutic outcomes persisting up to 6 months after two treatment sessions.

Long‐term efficacy and safety of nonablative monopolar radiofrequency in the treatment of moderate to severe acne vulgaris

“…This reduction began 1 month after the initial treatment, demonstrating a noteworthy 41% decrease from the baseline at the 6‐month mark following the second treatment. These improvements in pore size align with the findings by Techapichetvanich et al, who utilized NMRF to improve pore size in Thai patients 13 …”

“…These benefits include the reduction of inflammatory AV lesions and decreased skin oiliness. The noted observations were substantiated in a study done by Techapichetvanich et al, 13 where NMRF treatments were found to reduce sebum excretion and the perception of skin oiliness. These results were linked to the mechanism of action of NMRF involving volumetric heating of the sebaceous glands and subsequent suppression of sebum excretion.…”

“…These improvements in pore size align with the findings by Techapichetvanich et al, who utilized NMRF to improve pore size in Thai patients. 13 Although treatment sessions with NMRF were welltolerated, an interesting observation during the study was the isotretinoin-like effect of NMRF. This effect was characterized by a transient self-limited flare up of AV, 2-3 weeks after the delivery of NMRF.…”

Efficacy and Safety of Monopolar Radiofrequency for Tightening the Skin of Aged Faces

“…The main differences between that study and our previous study were the number of treatment sessions and the characteristics of the participants. Our previous study included 10 women and 9 men with an average pore diameter of >0.3 mm on the cheeks, and the patients underwent two monopolar RF treatment sessions at a 4-week interval [26]. A single monopolar RF treatment did not have a pore-reducing effect in patients with general aging compared with patients who had large pores.…”