Combined infrared light and bipolar radiofrequency for skin tightening in Asians

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: As the demand for non-invasive procedures for skin tightening is increasing, combined optical and radiofrequency (RF) devices have recently emerged. Light-based therapies alone have limited efficacy due to the absorption of light by epidermal melanin and limited dermal remodeling. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the ReFirmeTM ST Applicator (Syneron Medical Ltd., Yokneam, Israel), a novel combination of a broadband IR light (700–2000 nm) and bipolar RF (electro-optical synergy [ELOS]) for non-ablative treatment of skin laxity. DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty Chinese patients (aged 50.0 ± 10.8 years) of skin types III–V, with skin laxity and wrinkles received three treatments at 3 to 4 week intervals with combined IR (700–2000 nm, 10 W/cm2) and RF energies (70–100 J/cm3). Standardized photographs were taken by the Canfield CR system at baseline and serially for 3 months after the last treatment. Two blinded assessors evaluated the photographs to assess the degree of skin tightening on a 0 (no improvement)–4 (excellent improvement) scale. Patient satisfaction scores were also obtained. RESULTS: After the third treatment, 80% of the subjects reported moderate to excellent subjective improvement in skin laxity at 3 months, with a high overall satisfaction rating. Blinded observers’ assessments were less remarkable, with 40% of the subjects showing mild to moderate improvement in skin laxity. There were no serious adverse sequelae. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of broadband IR (700–2000nm) and bipolar RF energies is a safe and effective treatment for skin tightening in Asians.