A Retrospective Analysis of the Clinical Response and Safety of Radiofrequency Microneedling Treatment in Managing Acne Vulgaris.

Abstract

Background: Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling is increasingly used for acne management; however, real-world evidence for its clinical effects and safety remains limited.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe the clinical response and safety of POTENZA RF microneedling (RFMN) for acne vulgaris in routine practice.

Methods: The authors retrospectively analyzed data from adults treated at a tertiary dermatology center in Seoul, Republic of Korea. Adult patients (≥18 years) with clinically diagnosed acne vulgaris who received POTENZA RFMN treatment were included. The primary outcome was clinical improvement (assessed by the physician and/or reduction in lesion counts). Secondary outcomes included adverse events (AEs). Continuous variables were summarized per distribution.

Results: The cohort included 50 patients (median age, 24 years; 60% male) with predominantly Fitzpatrick skin types III. All procedures used bipolar RF (50% medium, 50% high); no boosters. Median sessions were 3. Clinical improvement occurred in 94% (47/50). Lesion counts decreased from 45 to 18.5 (P < .001). The mean percentage reduction was 48.3% ± 24.5%. AEs occurred in 10% (5/50), all mild/transient (erythema, pruritus, and stinging), and no serious AEs.

Conclusions: In real-world practice, POTENZA RFMN was associated with high clinical improvement, substantial lesion reduction, excellent tolerability, and universal patient-reported benefits. These findings support its pragmatic use for acne in patients with Fitzpatrick skin types III and IV and warrant confirmation in prospective controlled studies.

Level of evidence: 4 (Therapeutic).