RF Microneedling vs Microneedling

RF Microneedling vs Microneedling in a head-to-head on the pros and cons of each.

Both treatments do wonders for the skin and it's no debate that RF (radiofrequency energy) microneedling is a superior treatment.

However, depending on your skin goals, it may not be the best option.

RF Microneedling vs Microneedling

RF (radiofrequency energy) microneedling wins regarding the "better" treatment.

If you've got unlimited money and can afford $800-$2000 a session then it might be the best option for you. However, if you're budget is tighter, normal microneedling (skin needling) is by far the best choice.

Here's why!

Microneedling vs RF Microneedling (cost)

The cost of treatments varies a lot and for price-aware people, you should take that into consideration.

If you buy an in-home derma roller, you can have your microneedling session for as little as $6.

If you're feeling fancy and want a professional to do your skin needling for you, you will typically pay $150-$300 a session.

Now let's add radiofrequency energy into the mix and your session now costs $800-$2000.

It's a HUGE difference!

Which One Is Best For Me? RF Microneedling or Microneedling

Let's go over the benefits of each treatment specifically so you can get an idea of the best option for you.

Microneedling (skin needling)

Microneedling (either in a clinic or at home with a derma roller) uses a needle depth of 0.2mm-2.5mm that creates micro punctures in the skin which causes the body to naturally start healing itself with new collagen production.

This is where the magic happens!

Microneedling is great for skin issues such as:

• Pore size and improved skin texture

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Moderate to deep acne scars

• Stretch marks

• Scalp hair growth

RF Needling (radiofrequency microneedling)

RF microneedling does the exact same thing but introduces radiofrequency energy into the mix at the deeper layers of the skin.

RF energy is great for super deep skin issues such as:

• Deep acne scars (acne scarring)

• Deep pigmentation issues

• Deep wrinkles

• Skin tightening

Which One Do I Choose?

To answer the question of which one you should choose...It depends.

If you have loose skin that needs tightening then you can't go past the use of Radiofrequency microneedling.

If you have severely deep lines or want to treat deeper scarring, RF needling is the right choice.

If you have fine lines and wrinkles, mild surface scarring etc typical microneedling with a derma roller at home will likely be the most cost-efficient and appropriate choice.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Traditional Microneedling or Radiofrequency microneedling (RF) both require a substantial number of treatments to see long-lasting results.

This is why taking cost into the argument is 100% needed.

For surface layer things like pore size and skin texture, you can get results after one session.

But, for all other issues such as wrinkles, acne scarring, stretch marks etc you will need anywhere from 3-8 sessions to see a substantial difference in your skin.

Can I Combine RF Microneedling and Microneedling?

Absolutely! We think that's a great happy medium for people with deeper skin concerns or loose and sagging skin.

If you have loose skin, book yourself into 1-2 sessions of Morpheus8 treatment (or similar RF needling treatment) then keep the progress going with a derma roller from home.

Collagen and elastin production is going to happen with both treatments so combining both of them is a great option.

RF Needling vs Traditional Microneedling (downtime)

Both treatments require you to have a break period between sessions.

This is usually dictated by the size of the needle used during the session.

For traditional microneedling, the recommended downtime periods are:

• 0.25mm - 2 days

• 0.50mm - 2 weeks

• 1.00mm - 1 month

• 1.50mm - 6 weeks

• 2.00mm - 8 weeks

• 2.50mm - 8 weeks

As RF microneedling typically uses larger needle sizes, you should expect to have a rest period of at least 4-8 weeks between sessions.

Keep in mind that RF energy intensity also comes into the equation, always ask your treatment provider for their recommendations when it comes to treatment break time.

Summary

Both traditional microneedling and rf microneedling are suitable for all skin types and skin tones (including darker skin types).

Whether you're looking to stimulate collagen production (collagen induction therapy), improve skin laxity, reduce acne scar tissue, improve stretch marks or treat loose skin by stimulating the wound-healing response; Traditional microneedling is going to do a fantastic job for you.

The use of RF energy on the deeper layers is only going to make things even better but for a large amount of people it likely isn't necessary to get the desired results at a cost-efficient price.

I hope this article has helped you regarding RF microneedling vs microneedling and the questions you may have had.

For more interesting articles make sure to check out our skin care blog.