Study Shows RF Device Rejuvenates Skin Basement MembraneStudy Shows RF Device Rejuvenates Skin Basement Membrane

Skin aging is not a surface phenomenon. The effects of aging go deeper into the epidermis, dermis and dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ). In a new study, a recently launched combination monopolar and bipolar radiofrequency (RF) device has been shown to improve the basement membrane (BM), a critical interface at the DEJ which allows diffusion of nutrients and cytokines from the dermis to the epidermis.

Kevin A. Wilson

October 30, 2024

3 Min Read
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Skin aging is not a surface phenomenon. The effects of aging go deeper into the epidermis, dermis and dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ). In a new study1, a recently launched combination monopolar and bipolar radiofrequency (RF) device has been shown to improve the basement membrane (BM), a critical interface at the DEJ which allows diffusion of nutrients and cytokines from the dermis to the epidermis.

Study co-author, Kyunghee Byun, MD, is head professor in the Department of Anatomy at Gachon University College of Medicine (Seongnam, Korea). “Monopolar RF treatment is gaining more recognition and popularity in Asia,” she stated. “With its technical development, it is showing good results in terms of safety with considerably high satisfaction in terms of effectiveness. The latest devices produce more satisfactory results from a combination of various frequencies or in conjunction with bipolar to provide additional effects.”

Sunny, the new device from SHENB Co., Ltd. (Seoul, South Korea), is ideal for skin elasticity, and features two handpieces: the Sunny and the Pulsar. The Sunny handpiece delivers powerful monopolar RF for long-term skin rejuvenation with built-in cooling. Hard and Soft Modes allow selection of RF waveforms to improve patient comfort, as needed. Additional features further enhance safety. “Advanced Gas Cooling Atomization Technology (ACA) monitors and adjusts the temperature and flow of cooling gas,” Dr. Byun explained. “Instantaneous Vaporization Technology (IVT) allows cooling gas to vaporize quickly without frost. Real-Time Impedance Check (RIC) monitors impedance for each shot where energy is delivered, whether the tip is in contact with skin, and any changes in skin condition before delivering more energy.” The Pulsar handpiece can emit 1 and 2 MHz monopolar or bi-polar RF (whichever is selected) and pulses can be adjusted up to ten sub-pulses. According to Dr. Byun, the Pulsar handpiece is best suited for treating laxity, melasma and wrinkles, as well as skin regeneration. “Based on these capabilities, we are studying new indications for use and discovered the effect on the regeneration of basement membrane as part of that research.”

Dr. Byun explained that this study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, is the first to explore the ability of RF to therapeutically improve aging-related degradation of the basement membrane and verify the mechanisms thereof. According to Dr. Byun, researchers created an in vitro model to investigate the effect of RF treatment with Sunny, as well as an aged mice skin model, and saw various signs, including increases in the expression of key markers and proteins. “The findings of the study will be utilized not only for improving aging-related loss of skin elasticity, but also for treating various skin diseases that require the regeneration of the basement membrane, such as photoaging, atopic dermatitis and scarring. BM fibers and proteins, essential for improving the elasticity in aged skin, are remarkably diverse and complex structures that are difficult to regenerate.”

Reference:

  1. Byun KA, Kim HM, Oh S, Batsukh S, Son KH, Byun K. Radiofrequency Treatment Attenuates Age-Related Changes in Dermal-Epidermal Junctions of Animal Skin. Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25(10):5178. Published 2024 May 9. doi:10.3390/ijms25105178

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