Microneedling has gained popularity in recent years as a non-invasive and effective treatment for various skin concerns. It involves the use of a microneedling device that creates micro-injuries on the skin’s surface, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. This results in improved skin texture, reduced wrinkles, and other benefits.
There are two main types of microneedling: traditional microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) microneedling. Both techniques use needles to penetrate the layers of the skin, but they differ in the energy used and the results produced. Let’s dive into their differences.
Traditional Microneedling
Traditional microneedling, which some also call it collagen induction therapy, uses a device with tiny needles that create small punctures in the skin. These punctures trigger the body’s healing process, resulting in increased collagen and elastin production. As a result, it can improve various skin concerns such as fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks, and skin laxity.
This procedure is minimally invasive and has minimal downtime compared to other treatments like laser resurfacing or chemical peels. However, it may cause some discomfort during the procedure and may not be suitable for those with active cold sores or acne.
Microneedling with Radiofrequency
Microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) uses a device that combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy. The needles penetrate the skin’s surface, delivering RF waves to the deeper layers of the skin.
RF microneedling is suitable for a host of skin imperfections and signs of ageing. RF energy is released into the dermis, promoting collagen and elastin production, which helps to firm and tighten the skin, effectively reducing fine lines and wrinkles. This makes it an excellent anti-ageing treatment.
When it comes to skin pigmentation, the precision of the RF microneedling treatment allows it to target and break up pigment clusters at various depths, helping to improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of pigmentation issues such as age spots and sunspots.
In the case of acne and acne scars, the RF microneedling treatment can be a game-changer. By releasing RF energy into the skin, the treatment can reduce the inflammation that often accompanies acne. Additionally, the increased collagen and elastin production helps to fill in atrophic scars (like ice pick scars and other forms of acne scarring), resulting in a smoother skin surface.
The Difference Between RF Microneedling and Traditional Microneedling
While both techniques use needles to create micro-injuries on the skin, RF microneedling has some distinct advantages over traditional microneedling.
Firstly, the use of RF energy allows for deeper penetration into the skin, resulting in more significant collagen and elastin production as well as more effective treatment of severe acne scars and deep wrinkles.
Secondly, RF microneedling is suitable for all skin types, including darker skin tones. Traditional microneedling may cause hyperpigmentation in those with darker skin due to increased melanin production.
Lastly, RF microneedling treatments offer a high degree of customisation whereas traditional microneedling offers fewer customisation options, which can limit its overall effectiveness for more complex or severe skin conditions.
Which Should You Choose?
The choice between RF microneedling and traditional microneedling ultimately depends on your skin concerns and treatment goals. If you have mild skin concerns and are looking for a more affordable option, traditional microneedling may be sufficient for you. However, if you have more severe skin laxity, deep wrinkles, or stretch marks, RF microneedling may provide better results.
When considering the difference between RF microneedling and traditional microneedling, it is also essential to take into account the cost, quality and longevity of the results. On average, RF microneedling tends to be more expensive than traditional microneedling due to the combined benefits of the procedure, including the incorporation of radiofrequency energy and the degree of customisation in treating complex skin conditions. However, the exact price can vary significantly depending on the clinic, the area being treated, the severity of the skin concern, and the number of sessions required.
While RF microneedling may come with a higher upfront cost, the comprehensive and lasting results it offers may provide more value in the long run.
It is essential to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine which treatment option is best for your unique needs. They can also advise on the number of sessions needed for optimal results and any pre- or post-treatment care instructions. Additionally, it is crucial to follow all aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimise the risk of complications.
How to Get the Most out of Your Treatment
Pairing your microneedling treatment with specially formulated serums can enhance the treatment outcome. The microchannels created by the microneedling device allow for increased absorption of active ingredients, thereby amplifying the benefits of the serums.
These serums, rich in skin-nourishing components like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and peptides, play a key role in accelerating skin rejuvenation and improving overall skin health.
In addition to serums, the radiofrequency microneedling treatment can be customised according to individual skin types and concerns.
The depth of needle penetration, amount of RF energy delivered, and treatment frequency can be adjusted to cater to your specific needs, whether it’s reducing the appearance of fine lines, improving skin laxity, or treating acne scars. This customisation makes RF Microneedling a versatile and effective treatment, which can lead to satisfying results.
Here at Halley Medical Aesthetics, we offer 6 different tips available to cater to every skin type and condition.
- Fusion Tip (CP 21) – Latest innovation in Potenza microneedling. It has a patented Cushion-Plus technology that allows the tip to push the topical serums deep into the necessary areas while the microneedle penetrates in the exact depth and releases RF energy simultaneously.
- Tiger Tip (S25 and S49) – Used for treating more tissue at multiple depths in a single treatment at the same time. This makes it easy to customise treatments based on the patient’s skin type and allows for a faster procedure.
- Insulated Needles (I25 and I49) – Used for both targeted and deep treatments for enhanced results around delicate facial areas.
- Single Insulated Needles (A1-15) – Used to target and improve blemishes on the skin.
Remember, an open discussion with your doctor about your skin’s history and goals can greatly contribute to the success of the treatment. They can guide you in choosing the right serums and adjusting the treatment parameters to best suit your skin concerns and enhance your RF microneedling experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both traditional microneedling and RF microneedling are minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatments, using fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. However, RF microneedling takes this a step further by delivering RF energy deep into the skin layers, enhancing collagen and elastin production for improved skin tightening and reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars.
RF microneedling also stands out for its suitability for all skin types and its ability to address more severe skin conditions. Although it may come at a higher cost compared to traditional microneedling, its potential for superior results, particularly for severe skin laxity, deep wrinkles, or stretch marks, makes it an option worth considering. Ultimately, the choice between these treatments depends on your specific skin concerns, budget, and treatment goals. Consulting with a skilled practitioner can ensure you make an informed decision that best suits your unique skin needs.
