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Microneedling Vs. Fractional Laser Resurfacing: What Is The Difference?

Microneedling Vs. Fractional Laser Resurfacing: What Is The Difference?

Collagen production, elastin production and cell turnover rate slow down as we age. These changes lead to wrinkles, dullness and losses in skin laxity. Sun exposure, pollution and bouts of acne can accelerate these problems. Two of the most effective treatments against aging skin are Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing and Microneedling. Understanding each of these treatments, as well as the differences and similarities between them, will help you select the treatment best for you.

The Similarities Between Microneedling and Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing

  • They both eliminate old skin cells, trigger collagen and new skin cell production.
  • They both help with lines, wrinkles, scars, skin texture, skin tightening, pore size, skin discoloration and stretch marks.
  • Both are much more comfortable with the application of numbing cream before the treatment.

The Differences Between Microneedling and Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing

  • Microneedling uses tiny needles to cause injury to the surface of the skin. This injury triggers old skin cells to shed and collagen to be produced. Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing uses a laser to disrupt a portion of the skin, which stimulates old skin cells to shed and new collagen to be produced.
  • Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing is typically used for problem areas on the face. Microneedling can be used for both problem areas and the entire face.
  • Microneedling can be a bit more budget friendly than Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing.
  • Microneedling is better for darker skin tones, whereas Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing is used more frequently with lighter skin tones.
  • Many clients believe the results with Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing are better than with Microneedling.
  • Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing is considered more painful than Microneedling.
  • Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing is better for more advanced signs of aging.
  • The downtime with Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing is longer than the downtime for Microneedling.

What to Know About Microneedling

  • Microneedling uses tiny needles to create “micro-injuries” on the surface of the skin. Your body responds to these injuries by creating collagen to heal the skin quickly, and as such, give your skin a more even tone and texture.
  • Microneedling goes by many names including: skin needling, collagen induction therapy (CIT), Plathete Rich Plasma Facial (PRP Facial or Vampire Facial) and Percutaneous Collagen Induction (PCI).
  • Microneedling does not involve any heat injury, which can make this treatment safer for darker skin tones.
  • Microneedling helps with acne scarring, fine lines/wrinkles, pore size, skin tightening, stretch marks, pigment issues and skin texture.
  • For Microneedling to be effective three to six treatments are needed.
  • The downtime associated with Microneedling is about 24 hours.

What to Know about Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing

  • Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing uses a laser to send a matrix-like pattern of heat columns into the skin and stimulates collagen production.
  • Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing is ideal for clients with deeper lines and wrinkles especially around the eyes, forehead and mouth.
  • Clients with lighter skin tones are ideal for Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing.
  • We can use two types of lasers in Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing: ablative and non-ablative. The ablative laser is best to remove tissue for more advanced signs of aging, and the non-ablative laser disrupts tissue for minor to moderate signs of aging.
  • Although you will experience mild swelling and redness in the treated area, you are still able to go about your daily activities after your Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing treatment with a good application of SPF. Strenuous exercise, hot tub, saunas, Jacuzzis and pools are to be avoided along with skin irritants such as retin-A and AHAs for two weeks following laser skin resurfacing.
  • You will need about three to six treatments for best results.
  • The downtime for Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing is two to four days.

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