Radio-frequency (RE) microneedling
skin resurfacing systems are described including an
electrode with an array of partially insulated needles, where the needles' exposed tips conduct bipolar RF
electric current into a patient's
skin, thus enhancing collagen production that stretches the
skin. The
electrode is carried by an application
handle, which connects to an RF
current generator. The applied treatment cycles utilize vacuum to pull the skin against the needles and
dielectric coolant to cool the epidermis. The needles' array penetrates the skin to a pre-determined depth inside the
dermis layer, followed by a sequential delivery of RF bipolar current pulses. The treatment cycle is controlled by an
algorithm, designed to raise the
dermis layer temperature for a certain duration. The treatment cycle and
algorithm rely on
dynamic impedance measurements and temperature measurements by thermistors to assure optimized controlled heating of the
dermis layer to a target temperature between 45 and 69°C.