Facial rejuvenation remains a cornerstone of aesthetic medicine, with an increasing demand for non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures. Among various modalities, radiofrequency (RF) technology has emerged as a key treatment due to its ability to induce collagen remodeling, improve skin laxity, and enhance overall skin texture with minimal downtime. RF-based treatments generate controlled thermal energy, stimulating neocollagenesis, elastogenesis, and angiogenesis, ultimately leading to improved skin firmness and contouring. This review systematically explores the mechanisms, clinical applications, efficacy, safety, and future directions of RF in facial rejuvenation. RF devices are categorized into monopolar, bipolar, and fractional RF systems, each offering distinct benefits. Monopolar RF delivers deeper tissue heating, making it effective for skin tightening, while bipolar RF provides localized energy application for precision. Fractional RF microneedling enhances dermal remodeling and has shown superior efficacy in treating acne scars and atrophic wrinkles. Histological and molecular studies confirm that RF promotes fibroblast activity, heat shock protein upregulation, and extracellular matrix remodeling, leading to sustained tissue rejuvenation. Clinical applications of RF extend beyond skin tightening and wrinkle reduction to include non-surgical facial contouring and acne scar treatment. RF-assisted lipolysis has demonstrated promising results in reducing subcutaneous fat and refining facial contours. Safety profiles of RF treatments indicate a low risk of adverse effects when performed by trained professionals, with transient erythema and mild edema being the most common side effects. Future advancements in RF technology will likely focus on AI-driven energy delivery, personalized treatment protocols, and combination therapies integrating RF with microneedling, platelet-rich plasma, and laser modalities. As research continues to expand, RF-based facial rejuvenation remains a pivotal, evolving approach, offering effective and safe aesthetic solutions for diverse patient populations.
Fawzy et al. (Fri,) studied this question.