Monopolar Radiofrequency for Facial Hyperpigmentation Treatment: An Integrated Retrospective Clinical Trial and Ex Vivo Study.

ABSTRACT: Aging-associated facial hyperpigmentation is driven not only by enhanced melanogenesis but also by dermal senescence and deterioration of the dermal-epidermal junction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether monopolar radiofrequency (MRF) monotherapy can improve aging-related facial hyperpigmentation by simultaneously suppressing melanogenic signaling and restoring senescence-associated dermal alterations. We assumed that deep dermal heating induced by MRF would modulate fibroblast senescence and basement membrane integrity, thereby indirectly regulating melanocyte activity. In a retrospective review of 26 Asian women, MRF treatment significantly decreased multiple pigmentation parameters, including melanin level, hyperconcentration, and Hemi Melasma Area and Severity Index (hem

SUBMITTER: Baek Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12841156 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature