The Difference Between Fractional Laser and Micro-Needling for Facial Skin Rejuvenation

Over the years, many different techniques have been developed for facial skin rejuvenation. One of the newest skin care treatments for refreshing your complexion is micro-needling, and it is perhaps the best skin treatment available today. This innovative procedure can effectively treat fine lines, skin texture, acne scars, stretch marks, skin tone, and hyperpigmentation. Micro-needling is not the same as fractional laser resurfacing and offers several advantages over laser treatments for facial skin rejuvenation.

How Fractional Laser and and Micro-Needling Treatments Differ

Both micro-needling and fractional laser treatments rely on a similar concept: injure the skin to initiate a natural healing response that ultimately leads to healthier, younger-looking skin. The treatments both stimulate collagen and elastin production, which promote healthy skin regeneration. However, each technique uses a different method to accomplish this goal. Fractional lasers use heat energy to penetrate the skin’s surface, heat the tissues, and trigger a healing response. Micro-needling, on the other hand, uses needles to create micro-channels in the skin and trigger a healing response without causing thermal damage to the tissues or protective epidermis.

Advantages of Micro-Needling Over Fractional Laser Treatments

Micro-needling offers several advantages over fractional laser treatments. By leaving the surface skin intact, micro-needling has a lower risk of infection and scarring. Because it does not rely on heat, there is also a lower risk of post-treatment hyperpigmentation. Lasers can traumatize the skin and cause uneven skin darkening or may lead to flare-ups of rosacea or melasma. The fact that micro-needling does not use lasers also makes it a suitable treatment for all skin types, whereas lasers are usually not recommended for darker skin. Additionally, thermal treatments can be more painful during and after treatment and may take longer to heal from than micro-needling. Regular micro-needling treatments can help refresh and rejuvenate the skin so that it looks healthier, more vibrant, and more youthful in texture and tone.

Dr. Robert Spies uses micro-needling at his Arizona practice for patient skin care and facial rejuvenation. To schedule your consultation for micro-needling with Dr. Spies, call (480) 890-0600 or complete our online contact form today.