Novel microneedling technique reduces facial oiliness and scars in acne subjects, study claims

Thailand: Fractional microneedling radiofrequency (FMR) resulted in a significant decrease in facial oiliness and volume of acne scars, according to a new study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 

The researchers observed a significant decrease in facial oiliness and acne scars' volume after a single treatment session with Fractora 24-pin coated tip, with up to a 15.48% decrease in facial oil production. This implies that the novel technique can be used as an alternative for patients with acne scars, who wish to concomitantly reduce their facial oiliness. 

Various treatment modalities including non-invasive methods such as topical retinoids, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, minimally invasive techniques such as fractional lasers, micro-needling, and microneedling radiofrequency devices, and invasive procedures such as acne scar surgeries and ablative lasers are used for acne scars. Each procedure has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. 

Fractional microneedling radiofrequency, because of its favorable outcomes and short downtimes, has gained popularity for the treatment of acne scars. Punyaphat Sirithanabadeekul, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand, and colleagues, therefore, aimed to investigate the use of FMR in reducing facial sebum production and treating acne scars in a single-center, prospective, evaluator-blinded trial. 

For this purpose, the researchers compared sebum production after three sessions of FMR (Fractora® 24-pin coated tip) performed one month apart. Evaluation of the results was done with a sebumeter (Cutometer, Germany), sebaceous gland histology, and subjects' assessment. 

Acne scars were graded in accordance with the Echelle d'Evaluation clinique des Cicatrices d'acné scale, Goodman and Baron's qualitative grading system, acne scar volume measurement, and subjects' assessments.