Radiofrequency Microneedling-Mediated Enhancement in Percutaneous Delivery of Topical Triamcinolone Acetonide: An In Vivo Quantitative Study

This study explored the use of radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) to enhance the delivery of topical triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) in 5 healthy volunteers. The research found that RFMN significantly increased TAC absorption, with the greatest uptake at a needle depth of 2.5 mm without radiofrequency energy, resulting in a 3.5-fold increase. At a 0.5 mm depth, moderate RF energy (390 mJ) improved penetration by 2.3-fold. The study concluded that insertion depth is the primary factor in enhancing drug delivery, while RF energy has a secondary, context-dependent effect. RFMN shows promise for improving topical corticosteroid delivery, potentially benefiting conditions like alopecia areata and keloids.