title: Treatment of acne scars by fractional bipolar radiofrequency energy.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  A variety of modalities are available for the treatment of acne scars. This prospective, IRB-approved study evaluates the efficacy and tolerance of fractional bipolar RF energy in the treatment of facial acne scars.
  
  
  METHODS
  Healthy subjects (n = 15, 13 females, aged 35.7 ± 5.6 years [mean ± SD], skin types I-V) with mild to moderate acne scars received three monthly treatments with a fractional bipolar RF device. Improvement and tolerance were evaluated at each visit, including a 1-month and 3-month follow-up visit.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Ten subjects completed the study. Physician-assessed acne scar severity was significantly reduced at 1 month and 3 months. Adverse effects were limited to transient erythema. Dryness, bruising and crusting erosion were limited. Subject-assessed stinging/burning, stinging (alone), tingling, itching and burning were also limited and consistent with each treatment. Subject-assessed fine lines and wrinkles, brightness, tightness, acne scar texture, pigmentation were all improved significantly. Satisfaction was high in 67-92% of subjects.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Fractional bipolar RF energy is a safe and effective modality for the treatment of acne scars.
authors.affiliation: Gold Skin Care Center, 2000 Richard Jones Rd, Nashville, TN 37215, United States. research@goldskincare.com
authors.forename: Michael H
authors.initials: MH
authors.lastname: Gold
authors.forename: Julie A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Biron
mesh_terms: D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000150:complications*; D000328:Adult; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000209:etiology* / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D028022:Low-Level Light Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D011846:Radio Waves / Q000009:adverse effects; D000078702:Radiofrequency Therapy