Efficacy of sylfirm x microneedling with radiofrequency alone versus combination treatment with a first session of chemical peel followed by sylfirm x in the treatment of resistant melasma: A pilot study.

Title : Efficacy of sylfirm x microneedling with radiofrequency alone versus combination treatment with a first session of chemical peel followed by sylfirm x in the treatment of resistant melasma: A pilot study.

Abstract:

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of Sylfirm X (microneedling with radiofrequency) alone with Sylfirm X combined with first session of Chemical Peel in the treatment of resistant melasma.

Study design: This comparative prospective study was conducted at the Skin Matters Clinic, Rawalpindi, Pakistan from Sept 25, 2020 to March 25, 2022.

Methodology: A total of 110 patients with melasma, 20 to 55 years of age, were included in this study. Patients with a history of discoid lupus erythematosus, pregnancy, lactation, anemia, and oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy were excluded from the study. Melasma Area severity index MASI tool was used to assess severity of Melasma at baseline and at end of 24 weeks in all patients completing study. Randomization was 1:1 for groups A and B, i.e. each upcoming patient was included in the next group. Sixty patients were placed in group A (Sylfirm X) and Sixty patients were enrolled in group B (Sylfirm X + Chemical Peel). Follow-up was done at three weekly intervals for a total 24 weeks, when the final response was assessed.

Results: In group A, the average age was 34 years, while in group B it was 33 years. Among the entire patients ie total of 220 patients, 88 were from group A and 132 were from group B. Chemical Peel used was Azelaic acid Peel followed by Sylfirm X after two weeks and then three weekly sessions of Sylfirm X for a total of four to six sessions depending on response. Fifty seven patients completed study in group A while 55 patients completed study in group B. Group A 46/57 showed reduction in MASI score in 80.70% patients whereas in group B, 46/55 (83.63%) patients showed marked reduction in MASI score.

Conclusion: This study concluded that the efficacy of Sylfirm X combined with first session of Chemical Peel is more effective than Sylfirm X (microneedling with radiofrequency) alone in the treatment of resistant melasma.

Biography:

• Presently working as Assistant Professor at Fauji Foundation Hospital, an 850 bedded Teaching Hospital and tertiary care referral centre, affiliated with Foundation University Medical College FUMC.
• Approved Supervisor and Invigilator for Fellow of College of Physicians & Surgeons FCPS, MCPS and MD  exams conducted by College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan.
• Examiner for FCPS clinical exams conducted by College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan CPSP.
• Master Trainer and Member of Faculty for hands on training of Dematologists/Plastic Surgeons/Aesthetiticians on Botox, Fillers,Threads and Energy Based Devices nominated by Pakistan Academy of Aesthetic Dermatologists & Surgeons PAADS.
• Certified in Advanced Regenera Activa Stem Cell therapy with PRP for hair loss treatment and skin rejuvenation purposes and Latest top of the line Long Pulsed NDYAG, Diode, IPL, Pico, Q Switch, CO2 Fractional Lasers. Have the honor of being the first one in Pakistan to get Sylfirm X in clinic and have treated more than 200 patients with Melasma, Rosacea, Saggy Skin with excellent results.
• Have the honor of getting 2nd ULTRACEL Q Plus (HIFU) in Pakistan for Non Surgical Face Lift. 
• Trainer in Fat Melting Procedures ie Radiofrequency, Cryolipolysis and Lipolytic Kybella Treatment for Belly Fat, Saddle Bags, Love handles and Double Chin.