Short-term efficacy and safety of 5MHz fractional microneedle radiofrequency for facial rejuvenation: a prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Facial aging is a multifactorial process driven by both intrinsic senescence and extrinsic environmental factors. Although fractional microneedle radiofrequency (FMR) is widely used for facial rejuvenation, clinical evidence on 5 MHz FMR remains limited. This prospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of 5 MHz FMR.
METHODS: Twenty participants with facial aging underwent a single full-face 5 MHz FMR treatment. Assessments were performed at baseline and on days 1, 4, 7, 14, and 28 using the MC750 and VISIA systems. Primary outcomes included skin physiological parameters, VISIA absolute parameters, and physician global assessment (PGA). Secondary outcomes included adverse events and patient satisfaction.
RESULTS: Skin hydration showed a transient early decline followed by gradual recovery, whereas melanin remained stable and hemoglobin exhibited a brief early increase before returning toward baseline. Skin elasticity improved significantly at V2 and remained elevated at V5-V6. VISIA analysis demonstrated transient early increases in most parameters, whereas wrinkle scores showed sustained improvement during follow-up. Greater baseline wrinkle severity was associated with greater wrinkle improvement, while subgroup analyses showed no significant differences across Fitzpatrick skin types or age groups. PGA scores progressively improved throughout follow-up. Treatment was well tolerated, with only transient erythema and burning sensations. No serious adverse events, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, were observed, and 85% of participants reported being satisfied or very satisfied.
CONCLUSIONS: This prospective study provides preliminary evidence that 5 MHz FMR may offer safe and effective short-term improvement in facial aging-related features, particularly wrinkles and skin elasticity. The treatment was associated with rapid recovery, limited irritation, and a low incidence of pigment-related adverse events.