Histological and electron microscopic analysis of fractional micro-plasma radio-frequency technology effects.

Objective: The aim of this explorative study was to investigate the histological effects of a novel micro-plasma radio-frequency technology for skin rejuvenation the assessment of different parameters.

Methods: Thirty guinea pigs were randomly selected and were distributed into three treatment groups: 40W/10KJ, 60W/10KJ, and 80W/10KJ. The treated skin was analyzed immediately, one week and one month post-treatment using histology and transmission electron microscope (TEM).

Results: At 40W/10KJ, the epidermis was intact and light collagen homogenization was observed in the papillary dermis. At 60W/10KJ, the epidermis showed focal emergence of fractional shape change and obvious papillary dermal homogenization. At 80W/10KJ, the epidermis was completely vaporized and the superficial and mid-dermal layers of collagen tissue showed a large area of homogenization. Dermal collagen increased in density and became arranged in an orderly manner after one week and markedly thickened and arranged in compact manner after one month. TEM showed that epidermal cells were relatively complete, intercellular structure was normal, but the dermal collagen lost its typical structure, cell structure disappeared and showed massive apoptosis. A low level of apoptosis marker expression was observed, with collagen structure restoration after one month.

Conclusion: The treatment with the novel micro-plasma radio-frequency technique has a dose-dependent effect on the skin, especially on the dermal collagen tissue, where neocollagenesis is stimulated.