Attenuation of acne scars using high power fractional ablative unipolar radiofrequency and ultrasound for transepidermal delivery of bioactive compounds through microchannels.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE To determine the efficacy and safety of a new method for treating acne scarring over a short-term period of 2 months and a long-term period of 6 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six faces and 13 shoulders or backs for a total of 19 patients were treated, all of which displayed varying degrees of acne scarring, from moderate to severe. A newly developed high-power unipolar fractional ablative radiofrequency technology was used (iPixel™ RF, Alma Lasers, Caesarea, Israel), with acoustic pressure ultrasound guided dermal injection of the PixelTreat Scars preparation (Alma Lasers), through RF Pixel fractionated microchannels. All patients underwent four treatment sessions at 3-week intervals. RESULTS Significant improvement was observed in scarring, both on the face (P < 0.0001), and on the back and shoulders (P < 0.0001). After 2 months, the percentage of fading on total scarring was 57% on the face and 49% on the back and shoulders; after 6 months, the percentage increased to 62% on the face, and 58% on the back and shoulders, respectively. Patients reported to be Somewhat Satisfied (16%), Satisfied (53%), and Very Satisfied (31%). No unexpected side effects to the ablation and no hypersensitive reactions to PixelTreat Scars were observed. CONCLUSION The bimodal procedure is safe and effective in reducing acne scarring. This represents a new therapeutic alternative of great interest, to be used either as a monotherapy, or in combination with other treatments.