RF Microneedling vs. Traditional Microneedling: Which Option is Right for Me?

Microneedling remains a popular and effective aesthetic skin treatment to help address common skin concerns and give patients a more radiant, clearer, and smoother complexion. Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling is also widely used and increasing in popularity each year, leaving many patients asking whether they should opt for traditional microneedling or RF microneedling. At Brissett Plastic Surgery, Houston, TX, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Anthony E. Brissett and our knowledgeable aesthetic team are here to help assess your skin and recommend the most appropriate treatment for you. Here, you’ll find a helpful comparison of regular microneedling vs. RF microneedling.

What is microneedling?

Both RF microneedling and traditional microneedling are performed in a similar way, which involves passing a handheld device over the skin’s surface. The device is equipped with many tiny needles, which create micro-injuries. This process triggers the body’s healing response, helping to generate new, healthy skin cells and ultimately give patients a smoother, more radiant complexion.

What does microneedling help with?

Microneedling is considered an effective treatment option for addressing a variety of common skin concerns, including:

• Acne scarring
• Stretch marks
• Enlarged pores
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Rough skin texture
• Sun damage
• Hyperpigmentation

What is the difference between regular microneedling and RF microneedling?

The primary difference between traditional microneedling and RF microneedling is the addition of radiofrequency energy in RF microneedling. During an RF microneedling treatment session, the handheld device creates tiny punctures on the skin’s surface, while RF energy is delivered to the deeper layers of tissue simultaneously. This added element heats the tissues and stimulates collagen production, which encourages tighter skin for a more youthful, lifted new look.

Should I get microneedling or RF microneedling?

Many patients, particularly those over the age of 40, prefer RF microneedling for its added skin-tightening benefits. With RF microneedling, patients can address visible skin concerns — like scarring and uneven skin texture — while also improving the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and mild skin laxity. Prior to treatment, one of our knowledgeable and experienced skin rejuvenation specialists will closely evaluate your skin, discuss your specific concerns and goals, and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for helping you achieve your desired outcome.

What will my skin look like after RF microneedling?

Following your RF microneedling treatment, it is normal for the skin to appear slightly red, inflamed, and irritated. After a few days, the micro-injuries will begin to scab over and flake away. During this time, it is essential to avoid picking or scratching at the skin, as this can delay the healing process and even lead to unwanted scarring. After your skin has healed, you should notice a visible improvement in the tone and texture of your skin. Over the next several weeks and months, as collagen supplies increase, there should also be an improvement in the firmness of your skin — creating a stunning, more youthful new look you can feel confident about.

Ready to tackle damaged skin and visible sagging? Consider RF microneedling in Houston, TX

If you are over 40 and are finally ready to transform your complexion by smoothing out lines, wrinkles, old acne scarring, and more, call Brissett Plastic Surgery to schedule your Houston, TX, RF microneedling consultation with one of our talented skin care specialists — under the direction of double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Anthony E. Brissett — today.