The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines radiofrequency as non-ionizing radiation that emanates from a source and travels across space between 450 and 500 kHz. Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive ablative technique that destroys targeted tissue using heat energy. Radiofrequency ablation devices utilize electrosurgical generators coupled to electrode arrays to deliver heat energy to tissue. Radiofrequency-based aesthetic devices utilize radiofrequency radiation to provide localized heating within tissues for minimally invasive aesthetic usage. The FDA classifies radiofrequency ablation devices as Class-II medical devices, which require a 510(k) submission for clinical use approval; the related regulation number is 878.4400.
Age increases the need for cosmetic enhancements. The geriatric population comprises adults aged 65 and beyond, making it one of the target age groups for radiofrequency-based aesthetic treatments. According to the 2019 edition of the World Population Prospects, over 16% of the world population will be over 65 by 2050, up from approximately 9% in 2019. Similarly, by 2050, it is anticipated that one in four people in North America and Europe will be 65 or older. The aging population is expected to be one of the key growth factors for the global radiofrequency-based aesthetic devices market, particularly for wrinkle reduction and skin tightening applications.
Due to the COVID-19 epidemic, home healthcare has become the most desired care method. As a result, healthcare expenditures have decreased due to linked and at-home medical equipment. The notion of radiofrequency-based at-home aesthetic treatments is well-known and has been on the market since the outbreak. Before at-home radiofrequency equipment, licensed medical and cosmetic professionals performed the procedure. To broaden the client base, however, non-professionals can now utilize a variety of cost-effective machines and technologies. Consequently, the use of radiofrequency at home became practical. Since the high expense of radiofrequency treatments is also a significant issue inhibiting growth, at-home equipment, and treatments can be encouraged.
North America is the most significant global radiofrequency-based aesthetic devices market shareholder and is estimated to exhibit a CAGR of 10.79% over the forecast period. The North American region is one of the centers of innovation for radiofrequency-based aesthetic devices. It is anticipated to continue to dominate the market over the projected period. Several companies in North America offer aesthetic treatments and solutions based on radiofrequency, putting the region at the forefront of the adoption of innovative technology. Several market leaders are headquartered in this region and have a significant presence in the U.S. market. The expansion in the region is attributable to technological advancements, the presence of essential market competitors, the aging population, an increase in new product releases, and FDA approvals. In April 2021, for instance, Cynosure, Inc. introduced the Potenza radiofrequency micro-needling device to enhance skin quality. Cynosure Inc. gained FDA approval for its Potenza radiofrequency micro-needling system in February 2020.
Europe is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 12.37% over the forecast period. Europe is one of the leading markets for aesthetic products based on radiofrequency technology. The demand for radiofrequency-based cosmetic treatments is anticipated to increase due to fewer problems and less pain than conventional procedures. In addition, numerous research studies have evaluated the advantages of radiofrequency-based cosmetic treatments, which has fueled market expansion. According to a 2016 study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) titled 'Review of the Mechanisms and Effects of Non-invasive Body Contouring Devices on Cellulite and Subcutaneous Fat,' a Spanish study found that radiofrequency improved upper thigh cellulite in females aged 24-58 and that the positive effects of the treatment persisted for at least six months post-treatment.