Radiofrequency Microneedling Shows Promise for Periorbital Skin Rejuvenation

Key Takeaways

• Radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) produced measurable reductions in periorbital wrinkles in a prospective, evaluator-blinded clinical study.
• All treatment-related adverse events were mild and transient, consisting primarily of erythema and edema that resolved within days.
• Larger comparative studies are needed to establish the efficacy of RFMN relative to established periorbital rejuvenation modalities.

Radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) demonstrated favorable safety and modest clinical improvements in periorbital skin rejuvenation in a prospective, evaluator-blinded clinical study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy.

Prospective Study Evaluates RFMN for Periorbital Wrinkles

The study enrolled 25 patients with periorbital wrinkles and fine lines who underwent one to three RFMN treatment sessions spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. Participants returned for evaluation 6 months after their final treatment. Investigators assessed outcomes using automated imaging software and independent evaluations from 2 blinded, board-certified dermatologists using a 5-point numeric rating scale (1 = very much improved; 5 = worsened).

Automated image analysis demonstrated a mean wrinkle reduction of 25.3% ± 40.4% in the infraorbital region and 37.3% ± 64.0% in the crow's feet area. Blinded physician assessments yielded a mean clinical improvement score of 3.21 ± 0.98, indicating variable clinical improvement across the study population.

Regarding safety, all participants experienced transient erythema and edema following treatment, with symptoms resolving within several days. No severe adverse events were reported during the study period.

The investigators concluded that RFMN "appears to be a promising option for periorbital rejuvenation with minimal downtime." However, they emphasized that larger comparative studies are necessary to better define its efficacy and establish its role alongside established treatment modalities, including fractional laser resurfacing.

Source

Authors not provided in source material. Radiofrequency microneedling for skin rejuvenation of the periorbital region—a prospective, clinical study. J Cosmet Laser Ther. Published online 2026. doi:10.1080/14764172.2026.2680304