Hello, I am Dr. Lee Sang-ju, a dermatologist at Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon. With the continuous hot and humid weather, many people complain that their acne has worsened due to increased sweat and sebum secretion. Today, I will reveal special know-how gained from treating countless acne patients over the past 24 years. It is well-known for its excellent effects in improving wrinkles and elasticity, but when used for acne treatment, it doubles its effectiveness – it is the radiofrequency (RF) device.
Why RF Treatment is Especially Effective for Adult Acne
RF devices are known to have good effects on improving elasticity and wrinkles. In particular, when used for adult acne treatment, even better results can be expected. As people age, skin elasticity may decrease and wrinkles may appear, while simultaneously experiencing a lot of acne and sebum. In such cases, using an RF device can not only improve elasticity and wrinkles but also reduce acne and sebum secretion. When sebum secretion decreases, acne occurrence naturally diminishes.
RF devices deliver high-frequency energy to a depth of about 1-3mm within the skin's dermis, and this energy converts into heat, damaging the sebaceous glands. Therefore, sebum is reduced, improving acne, and skin elasticity also improves.
Scientifically Proven RF Acne Treatment Effects
The acne-improving effects of RF treatment have already been reported through various studies.
According to treatment results for 22 acne patients, 82% of patients showed excellent effects.
Based on these papers, to verify whether RF devices are effective for acne treatment in Koreans, I conducted treatments combining Thermage FLX and Polaris devices, which are commonly used for RF treatment. As a result, it was verified that these devices are very effective for acne treatment in Koreans, and the results were published in 2007.
Combination Treatment for Synergy
Even if RF treatment is performed alone, acne improvement can be seen, but even greater results can be achieved when combined with other treatments that reduce sebum.
- Gold PTT: Recently, Gold PTT, which is gaining attention, can directly target and treat sebaceous glands, so synergy can be expected when combined with RF.
- Sebum regulators: Combining drug treatment that regulates sebum secretion can achieve greater effects and long-term acne improvement.
How Often Should RF Treatment Be Received?
RF treatment can show effects even with a single session. Repeat treatments are possible depending on the individual's skin condition and the severity of acne, and some people receive treatment once or twice a year, or every three months. It is known that even with such repeated treatments, side effects rarely occur, and acne rarely worsens. According to test results conducted at our clinic in the past, the effects of a single treatment often lasted for more than 6 months, and sometimes even up to a year.
Advantages of Safe and Comfortable RF Treatment
Unlike lasers, RF treatment can be performed on individuals with darker skin tones without major issues. You generally do not need to worry about pigmentation after the procedure. Also, many people worry about skin redness, but the skin only appears slightly red for about two to three hours after the procedure, and then recovers quickly enough to allow an immediate return to daily life.
Since RF treatment acts on the dermis, you can expect the effect of strengthening the skin rather than making it sensitive. However, you may temporarily feel dryness for about a week after the procedure. I can say that it is a very safe and effective treatment method compared to other laser or ultrasound treatments.
RF vs. Ultrasound, What's the Difference in Acne Treatment?
Regarding acne treatment, according to currently known results, RF is reported to be more effective than ultrasound. Since RF acts on the entire skin and can cover almost all sebaceous glands around the pores, it is reasonable to consider RF more effective for acne treatment.