Non-ablative radiofrequency associated or not with low-level laser therapy on the treatment of facial wrinkles in adult women: A randomized single-blind clinical trial

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of Non-ablative Radiofrequency (RF) associated or not with low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on aspect of facial wrinkles among adult women. Methods: Forty-six participants were randomized into three groups: Control Group (CG, n = 15), RF Group (RG, n = 16), and RF and LLLT Group (RLG, n = 15). Every participant was evaluated on baseline (T0), after eight weeks (T8) and eight weeks after the completion of treatment (follow-up). They were photographed in order to classify nasolabial folds and periorbital wrinkles (Modified Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Scale and Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Classification System, respectively) and improvement on appearance (Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale). Photograph analyses were performed by 3 blinded evaluators. Results: Classification of nasolabial and periorbital wrinkles did not show any significant difference between groups. Aesthetic appearance indicated a significant improvement for nasolabial folds on the right side of face immediately after treatment (p = 0.018) and follow-up (p = 0.029) comparison. RG presented better results than CG on T8 (p = 0.041, ES = −0.49) and on follow-up (p = 0.041, ES = −0.49) and better than RLG on T8 (p = 0.041, ES = −0.49). RLG presented better results than CG on follow-up (p = 0.007, ES = −0.37). Conclusion: Nasolabial folds and periorbital wrinkles did not change throughout the study; however, some aesthetic improvement was observed. LLLT did not potentiate RF treatment.