It’s a very common question, so put simply, Microneedling and Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling definitely sound like similar treatments, but they work very differently and they deliver different results. To start with both stimulate collagen production, but traditional Microneedling focuses on improving skin texture and quality, while RF Microneedling uses additional heat energy to help tighten and firm the skin. Understanding the difference is important when you’re deciding which treatment is right for you, so here’s a bit of a deeper dive.
What is traditional Microneedling?
Traditional Microneedling uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries, or channels in the skin. We do this to kick-start the skin's natural repair or healing process, which encourages the production of collagen, and that helps keep skin firm, and more resilient. We see particularly brilliant results for improving uneven texture, fine lines, acne scarring and dullness, so if you wanted to improve your overall skin quality it's a fantastic option.
The other answer to a very common question; No, it doesn’t hurt! The treatment feels slightly scratchy but is very tolerable. You can expect a little redness afterwards, which typically lasts 24-48 hours (although recovery varies and some don’t). Results build gradually, with a course of treatments often recommended for the best outcome.
The main difference is, traditional Microneedling doesn't involve heat and isn't designed to reduce facial fat.
How is RF Microneedling different?
RF Microneedling takes the same basic principle but adds Radiofrequency energy, which delivers controlled heat underneath the skin's surface. The heat causes existing collagen fibres to contract, and triggers the production of new collagen and elastin, helping to gradually firm, tighten and strengthen the skin.
RF Microneedling It's great for loss of firmness, deeper lines and wrinkles, and acne scarring, and has an effective tightening effect.
The treatment does obviously feel warmer, so more intense than traditional Microneedling, and the downtime can be slightly longer too, with redness and occasional swelling lasting a few days. Your results develop over a few months as the new collagen forms.
Can RF Microneedling cause facial fat loss?
This is where some of the confusion comes from. Traditional Microneedling doesn't use heat, so it doesn't have any affect on fat, but RF Microneedling generates heat deep enough to reach the fat layer beneath the skin.
Sometimes, depending on the device, depth and energy settings, unwanted facial fat loss can happen, which is why choosing an experienced therapist who understands your facial anatomy, and what you’re aiming to achieve is so important.
Which treatment is better for your skin?
This really comes down to what your skin goal is. Ultimately, neither treatment is inherently better than the other, and they serve different purposes, so the best results come from choosing the one that addresses your particular skin concerns. If your main issue is dullness, uneven texture, fine lines or generally improving the quality of your skin, traditional Microneedling is the better starting point.
If you're noticing more of a loss of firmness, have deeper wrinkles or mild skin laxity, RF Microneedling is probably more appropriate. Both treatments can help improve acne scarring, but the best approach really depends on the nature of the scars and your own skin.
