Microneedling or RF microneedling: what is the difference? Same idea, different depth

Facials help for a week. Then the texture is back: the pores, the old acne marks, the foundation that never sits smooth. That is usually the moment women start looking at microneedling, and immediately find two versions. Which one do you need?

How does microneedling work?

A pen with very fine needles makes tiny, controlled channels in the skin. Your skin responds by renewing itself, which over a course can make texture smoother, pores look smaller and acne scars look softer. The channels also help serums applied on top work better.

What does RF add?

RF microneedling does the same, then adds radiofrequency heat through the needles, deeper in the skin. That extra heat is what makes it the stronger option for acne scars and firmness.

Numbing cream goes on for both, for about 20 to 30 minutes, and the appointment takes about 60 minutes.

Which one should you choose?

Neither is better. They do different jobs.

• Your skin looks dull, pores look bigger, texture feels rough: classic microneedling is the gentler start.
• You see acne scars or pitted texture every time you put on foundation: RF microneedling.
• Your skin has started to lose firmness: RF microneedling.
• Stretch marks on the tummy, thighs, arms or buttocks: RF Microneedling (Body), from €150, for softer-looking stretch marks and firmer-looking skin.

Many women start with classic microneedling and move to RF later. We recommend one at your consultation.

What are the serum options?

Because the channels help products work better, you can add a serum to classic microneedling:

• Exosomes + Microneedling, from €150: exosome serum applied to the skin during microneedling, for texture and tone.
• Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic + Microneedling, from €200: for tired, dull-looking skin. PDRN comes from purified fish DNA, so tell us about any fish or seafood allergy.

At Mirabell, these serums are always applied to the skin, never injected.

Can you combine microneedling with other treatments?

Yes. BioRePeel + Microneedling pairs a peel with microneedling for more visible change in texture, scars and pores (see our chemical peels). RF microneedling also pairs well with a skin booster such as Profhilo: hydration from the booster, firmness from the RF. We plan the order and the gaps with you.

Will it fix acne scars completely?

Be wary of anyone who says yes. Microneedling, especially RF, can soften the look of many acne scars over a course. Deep scars improve but rarely disappear, and we will tell you honestly what to expect before you start.

What is the downtime?

Skin looks pink, like mild sunburn, and feels tight for 1 to 3 days, sometimes a little longer after RF. Most women go back to work the next day.

Aftercare: no make-up for 24 hours, only the gentle products we recommend for 48 hours, no retinol, acids or scrubs for 5 to 7 days, no sun, sunbeds, saunas, swimming or hard workouts for 48 hours, and SPF 50 every day. Use a clean pillowcase the first night.

Who should wait?

Not right now if you have active acne, an infection, a cold sore or eczema in the area, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have taken isotretinoin in the last 6 months. Tell us if you form keloid scars, take blood thinners, or, for RF, have a pacemaker or metal implants in the area.

See every option and course price on our microneedling page, or book a free 10-minute consultation and we will choose with you.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Results build over a course and vary from person to person.