Efficacy and safety of microneedling radiofrequency in acne scars

Objectives: To study the efficacy and safety of microneedling radiofrequency (MNRF) in the treatment of acne scars.

Material and methods: This is a hospital-based and prospective interventional study. A total of 44 patients (18- 55 years old), skin types III-V, with acne scars, were enrolled. Four sessions of MNRF (Lumenis legend PRO Machine, with non-insulated needle tips GEN6, GEN6L; Israel) were done with an interval of 3 weeks between each session and followed up 1 month after the last session. The outcome was assessed by Goodman and Baron's qualitative and quantitative acne scar grading, physician global assessment (PGA), and patient satisfaction score (PSS).

Results: Out of 44 patients, four patients could not complete the study. Goodman and Baron's qualitative assessment showed patients with Grades 2, 3, and 4 were 6 (15%), 17 (42.5%), and 17 (42.5%), respectively. At the end of follow-up, patients with Grades 1, 2, 4, and 4 acne scars were 5 (12.5%), 24 (60%), 10 (25%), and 1 (2.5%), respectively, which were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Seven patients showed no improvement. Goodman and Baron's quantitative assessment showed an initial mean of 12.65 and an after-follow-up mean of 8.3, which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). PGA and PSS scores showed excellent to good responses of 70% and 82.5%, respectively. Adverse effects such as post-treatment erythema were seen in all patients, and edema was observed in 12 patients. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was noted in two patients.

Conclusion: MNRF was found to be effective with a better safety profile for acne scars.