Sponsored by SHENB Co., Ltd.
Since its inception, radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) has been a reliable, versatile and consistent aesthetic modality. While the quality of outcomes is dependent on one’s 
ability to control the needle depth/patterns and manage energy delivery, continued success with RFMN depends on the platform’s ability to provide outcomes with minimal hassle and discomfort for patients.
According to Geebum Kim, MD, president of Misogain Dermatology Clinic (Seoul, South Korea), VIRTUE RF from SHENB Co., Ltd. (Seoul, South Korea) has been able to evolve and is a prime example of a fundamental technology every aesthetic clinic should have because it hits all the right notes. Featuring four key technologies, VIRTUE RF’s integrated energy control system allows adjustment of the spot size from a larger, lower-density area to a smaller, high-density spot. Frequency of RF can also be adjusted.
“By controlling needle spacing and frequency we can modulate the width, depth and concentration of energy delivery,” Dr. Kim explained. “This minimum depth control system provides the capability to precisely customize needle penetration. Energy delivery is modulated by the integrated pulsed RF system, which will drive the energy deeper if needed. An advanced cooling system maximizes patient comfort by regulating the cooling plate’s temperature throughout treatment. “These features help VIRTUE RF rise to the challenge of managing the needle-related and RF delivery issues to maximize comfort and results.”
VIRTUE RF’s three handpieces include the 36-needle SMART RF for the hands, face and decolleté; DEEP RF, a 36-needle array with a cooling plate for tightening and advanced body therapies; and the EXACT RF handpiece with its single needle for precision work in areas such as the perioral, periocular or jawline. After numbing, treatment itself lasts only about 30 minutes and is extremely tolerable.
Science tells the tale, according to Dr. Kim, who highlighted two studies specifically. A 2014 in vivo minipig study by Zheng and colleagues1 illustrates how wider heat transfer results from deep delivery of high frequency energy using a pulsed delivery. More specifi cally, that microneedle depth and RF conduction times more significantly affected 
histometric values of RF-induced dermal coagulation than energy level. “It is like grilling a steak for longer at lower heat for deeper, more even cooking. VIRTUE RF’s integrated, pulsed RF system and advanced cooling help control this crucial function.” The other, a recent in vivo study by Cho, et al.,2 used a porcine model to examine the e ects of VIRTUE RF, with its integrated cooling, on skin. This study showed how RF delivery with cooling protected the surface skin while allowing heat delivery to the midto- deep dermis.
“VIRTUE RF does not just perform the basic functions of RFMN well, it overcomes the limitations of many other RFMN devices,” Dr. Kim said. “The more I use it, the more confi dence I have in its ability to treat consistently and safely.”
References:
1. Zheng Z, Goo B, Kim DY, Kang JS, Cho SB. Histometric analysis of skin-radiofrequency interaction using a fractionated microneedle delivery system. Dermatol Surg. 2014 Feb;40(2):134-41.
2. Cho SB, Lee YJ, Kang SY, Choi M, Kim B, Ahn JC. Effects of parallel contact cooling on pulsed-type, bipolar radiofrequency- induced tissue reactions in an in vivo porcine model. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024 Jan 18;17:125-135.
