When it comes to rejuvenating and refreshing the skin, both microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) microneedling get the job done. However, despite the effectiveness of these treatments and the boost in collagen and elastin production within the skin, they are different and benefit different skin types. Still, microneedling vs. RF microneedling is a highly debated topic, and these minimally invasive skin treatments can improve the skin as long as you know which one is best for you. Here, we compare microneedling vs. RF microneedling for head-to-head comparisons and how they stack up.
Microneedling 101
Traditional microneedling relies on a unique pen-like device stamped into the skin to create controlled micro-injuries. These tiny skin wounds puncture the skin, creating new collagen and elastin as part of the skin’s natural healing process. By stimulating new collagen production, skin emerges firmer and thicker, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, enlarged pores, acne scarring, sun damage, and stretch marks while improving the skin’s overall texture. The small skin punctures created during microneedling also act as channels so topical skin care ingredients can be delivered into the skin during the treatment.
Microneedling Upgraded: Introducing RF Microneedling
RF microneedling is similar to traditional microneedling but with the added benefit of RF energy. During an RF microneedling treatment, the conventional application of microneedling is used, but the handpiece contains RF energy. When the machine creates micro-wounds in the skin, it also simultaneously delivers a dose of RF energy into the skin to further amplify collagen production for a tighter, more lifted look. RF microneedling is delivered deep into the dermis and has the added benefit of increasing the skin’s natural elastin and hyaluronic acid levels, too.
With RF microneedling, there is improved and enhanced skin tightening compared to microneedling alone since the treatment stimulates the creation of growth factors, too. RF microneedling is often recommended to treat deeper scarring, some skin sagging, and stubborn textural concerns such as crepey skin because it can safely reach deeper layers of the skin.
When considering microneedling vs. RF microneedling, it is important to understand that RF microneedling reaches the deeper layers of the skin without significantly damaging the top layers. This is because RF energy is delivered past the tip of each needle to the deep layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production and provide a tightening effect.
Another benefit of RF microneedling is that it can be customized to your needs, both in terms of the needle depth and the intensity of the RF energy delivered.
Microneedling vs. RF Microneedling: vs. One is Better?
Choosing between microneedling and RF microneedling may seem complicated, but at CARE Esthetics, we find RF microneedling superior to the traditional version.
Even though RF microneedling has become quite popular, traditional microneedling still has its place in a well-rounded anti-aging routine. Microneedling is an excellent solution if you are looking to maintain the results from RF microneedling or other skin-rejuvenating treatments, or wish to combine with add-on treatments, like exosomes or PRP, to further enhance the outcome of the treatment.
With RF microneedling, the skin texture improves, so any wrinkles are smoothed out. That’s because RF microneedling boosts collagen production more, making it more beneficial for reducing wrinkles. While traditional microneedling does increase collagen production, RF microneedling amplifies it due to the heat delivered to the underlying skin layers, helping to smooth out lines and wrinkles further. Delivering RF energy to the deeper layers of the skin also allows the treatment to be effective without damaging the top layers of the skin.
Acne scars are difficult to treat, but with RF microneedling, there’s far more improvement than traditional microneedling treatments. That’s because RF microneedling contains the added benefit of RF energy to improve scar tissue and depleted collagen within the skin. We also like that RF microneedling is more customizable to meet the needs of each patient.
Ultimately, at CARE Esthetics, we find RF microneedling to be a far superior treatment than microneedling. Although each treatment has its benefits, the results seen with RF microneedling are more impressive than those of traditional microneedling treatments. To determine which is right for you, schedule a consultation with our team to understand better how microneedling vs. RF microneedling can improve your skin.
