At-Home Radiofrequency and Arbutin Cream Can Simultaneously Treat Melasma and Facial Aging

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Combining at-home radiofrequency (RF) with arbutin cream improved melasma and facial rejuvenation, according to a new study.¹ The combination therapy was safe, effective, and convenient for patients looking to accomplish both aesthetic skin goals.

The single-center, open-label, intraindividual controlled study included 38 female participants who had stable phase melasma along with skin laxity and wrinkles. All were between the ages of 28 and 60, with a mean age of 44 years, and all had Fitzpatrick skin types ranging from II to IV.

Patients utilized the red-light RF device for 5 minutes using the “firm-and-lift” mode. After a 15-minute fading and repair phase, a 7% arbutin cream was applied. This process occurred every other day for 4 weeks, followed by a follow-up period of 4 more weeks. Participants were encouraged to wear SPF50+ daily sunscreen throughout the process.

Clinicians noted changes in modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) scores which ranged from 0 (mild) to 24 (severe). The melanin index (MI) and erythema index (EI) were also measured with a Mexameter. Finally, facial wrinkles, skin texture, and periorbital dermal thickness were assessed via the VISIA-CR photographic system and the Stress Echo ultrasound. Investigators also evaluated the patients’ self-perception of treatment. These were measured at baseline, week 4, and week 8.

mMASI was the primary measure for evaluating the severity of melasma. Notably, differences in mMASI scores were observed at all time points. More specifically, the score decreased by 20.8% at 4 weeks and 25.6% at 8 weeks. MI decreased by 22.0% at 4 weeks and 22.8% at 8 weeks whereas EI decreased by 5.94% at 4 weeks and 6.86% at 8 weeks. Additionally, the color and intensity of the melasma and erythema on the cheeks were significantly reduced compared to baseline.

“The observed reduction in erythema during the treatment period suggests that this combined approach is both effective and safe for individuals with sensitive skin types,” the authors noted. “This finding is particularly significant, as traditional melasma treatments, such as chemical peels and laser therapy, are often associated with a risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.”

Facial wrinkles decreased by 30.9% at 4 weeks and 35.9% at 8 weeks. Moreover, skin texture scores decreased by 19.7% at 4 weeks and 21.4% at 8 weeks. These changes were noted at all three time points and were sustained for at least 4 weeks post-treatment.

Substantial improvements were also noted in periorbital dermal thickness (1.0 cm), which improved by 26.8% at 4 weeks and 31.7% at 8 weeks. Subcutaneous tissue thickness (1.0 cm) also decreased by −1.9% at 4 weeks and 27.0% at 8 weeks. These numbers emphasize the tightening and stimulating effect that this combination therapy can elicit.

Over half of the patients were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the results, specifically with improvements in wrinkle reduction, skin hydration, pigmentation effects, skin tone changes, and overall treatment outcomes. Moreover, no adverse events were recorded. But the small sample size, short observational period, and absence of a control group may limit these findings and should be considered for future research.

The skin-lightening power of arbutin inhibits tyrosinase activity in melanocytes without compromising the viability of the cells.² Combining it with the home-based RF treatment creates a noninvasive, long-lasting, and safe effect for both conditions with minimal recovery time.

“Mechanistic studies exploring the combined effects of RF treatment and arbutin cream on melasma and achieving facial rejuvenation are warranted to provide stronger evidence and expand clinical options,” the authors concluded.

References

1. Zhang L, Zhao Q, Che Q, et al. Effectiveness and Safety of Combined Use of Home-Based Radiofrequency Device and Arbutin Cream in Melasma and Facial Rejuvenation. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(2):e70007. doi:10.1111/jocd.70007

2. Akiu S, Suzuki Y, Asahara T, Fujinuma Y, Fukuda M. Nihon Hifuka Gakkai Zasshi. 1991;101(6):609-613.