Posted on October 27, 2022 by Body Details Team As we age, the tiny imperfections in our skin become more apparent. Our youthful, elastic skin begins to develop scars, age spots, lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, and other flaws that not only diminish our personal aesthetic but also give away our age. Microneedling and laser resurfacing are two of the more popular methods for rejuvenating the skin, but how do they compare? In this article, we outline the pros and cons of both procedures and compare microneedling vs. laser facial rejuvenation.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a process that has been around for over 100 years. Created by German dermatologist Ernst Kromayer in 1905, microneedling involves making dozens of tiny pinpricks in the skin. One of the more common ways to achieve this is with a derma roller. A derma roller is a handheld tool that looks like a small paint roller, only the wheel has very fine needles on it. As the derma roller moves across your skin, the needles make microscopic punctures. The body’s natural healing process causes the skin to produce collagen, which causes it to plump. When the skin is stretched, wrinkles, lines, and pockmarks become less noticeable. The process may also help with age spots, which are the result of concentrations of melanin in specific areas of the skin. Microneedling is generally applied to an entire area of the body or face, so it’s not recommended if you have a specific scar or discoloration you’re trying to target.
Things You Should Know About Microneedling?
Microneedling can be effective for some dermatological problems, but there are a few things you need to know before committing to this procedure. Microneedling does involve minor damage to the skin. Microneedling side effects can include bleeding, bruising, infection, and peeling. The affected area may feel similar to a minor sunburn for a few days, but that should go away in time.
You should not try microneedling at home. Although you can purchase a derma roller online, and the process may seem straightforward, there is some technique to it. If you apply too much pressure, it can have the opposite effect of what you’re looking for. You can create small tears instead of punctures, which can lead to new scarring or hyperpigmentation.
How Laser Skin Rejuvenation Works
Laser skin rejuvenation stimulates collagen production by targeting the desired area with short laser pulses. Like microneedling, the laser temporarily damages the skin, but only where the laser technician applies the treatment. So, if you have a scar on your cheek, for instance, the laser can be applied only to the scarred skin and the cells immediately around it. Laser skin rejuvenation can be effective for treating scars, wrinkles, sun damage, acne marks, stretch marks, discoloration, and age spots. One thing that sets Body Details True Laser® Centers apart from other laser skin rejuvenation clinics is that we use the PicoWay® Resolve Laser, which is recalibrated for different skin types. Additionally, all of our laser techs hold advanced medical degrees. They are either advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) or physician’s assistants (PA), and a medical doctor oversees our operations.
Laser Rejuvenation vs. Microneedling
Laser rejuvenation is the preferred choice for a variety of reasons:
Effectiveness
While both techniques work by either encouraging collagen production or breaking up the pigments that cause discoloration, the laser facial benefits outweigh those of microneedling. Because laser skin resurfacing targets a specific area of the skin — as opposed to passing over it in a blanket motion — you can be certain that your skin imperfections are being addressed.
Speed
Laser skin rejuvenation can produce nearly immediate results, while microneedling can take a week or two before the damage heals and the skin begins to look healthier. Depending on the outcome you’re looking for, both treatments may require several sessions, but if you’re looking for a faster outcome, laser wins here.
Duration
The effects of a course of laser treatments can last for years, whereas microneedling must be done more frequently.
Convenience
If you microneedle at home, which we do NOT recommend, microneedling is more convenient. The only responsible way to receive laser resurfacing is by a licensed, trained medical professional. At Body Details, we try to make appointments as hassle-free for our clients as possible, which is why we have early, late, and weekend hours. Most appointments take under 30 minutes, so you can even schedule one on your lunch break.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Facial Benefits
At Body Details True Laser® Centers, with over a million laser treatments under our belt, we’ve witnessed some amazing results. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions by Body Details clients.
What Activities Should I Avoid Before and After Laser Skin Rejuvenation?
Before – You should avoid any skin-damaging activities, like tanning and smoking. You should not have laser treatments if you’re on a medication that causes photosensitivity. You can generally schedule your treatment 72 hours after you finish your prescription.
After – Your skin may feel slightly burned and can peel. Keep your skin clean with a gentle cleanser and use an occlusive moisturizer. Avoid tanning or swimming until your skin heals. Do not get a facial or skin peel. Avoid smoking during the healing process.
Is There Any Downtime After Laser Skin Rejuvenation?
You can resume most activities — other than those listed above — immediately after laser skin rejuvenation.
Is Laser Skin Rejuvenation Painful?
Most people do not find laser resurfacing to be painful — certainly less painful than microneedling which involves dozens or more tiny punctures. Many people compare the laser sensation to a rubber band snapping against the skin.
How Many Laser Treatments Are Required for Skin Resurfacing?
The answer to this question depends largely on what type of skin imperfections you’re targeting. Some minor lesions only require one treatment, while others may require four or five. Your laser technician can give you a better idea during your initial free consultation.
How Does the PicoWay® Resolve Laser Work?
The PicoWay® Resolve Laser works by firing small intense pulses of direct light at the cell. This destroys the imperfect skincell, which promotes collagen production and new cellular growth. This is the most powerful FDA-approved laser in its class.
South Florida Laser Skin Rejuvenation
Body Details is Florida’s top laser skin treatment center. With locations throughout South and Central Florida, and Georgia, there are Body Details True Laser® Centers near you. Call today to schedule a free, no-obligation appointment where you can talk to one of our medical professionals about your skin and your desired outcome. Financing options available. There’s no reason that you can’t have the skin you’ve always wanted. Contact Body Details today!
