Microneedling Pros & Cons
Microneedling, sometimes called collagen induction therapy, is a professional treatment for people looking to refresh their skin without going under the knife. It has been around for a while now and with good reason.
As we age, our collagen levels start to dip. Add in sun exposure and stress, and it is no wonder our skin can start to feel dull or less elastic.
Microneedling helps to jumpstart collagen and elastin production again to restore that bounce and glow. By rolling or stamping tiny needles across the skin to create microscopic punctures, the treatment actually triggers the body's natural healing process and encourages the skin to rebuild itself.
As those micro-injuries heal, your skin gets to build new, healthy tissues. Over time, that can mean fewer fine lines, smaller pores, smoother texture, and an overall brighter complexion. But like any treatment, it's not a one-size-fits-all.
Depending on your skin type and what you are hoping to achieve, there are a few different versions to choose from. Here is what you need to know about microneedling pros and cons before you book your treatment.
Standard Microneedling
This is the classic version. Using a needling pen or roller, your skin therapist will create controlled microchannels at varying depths, depending on what your skin needs. It is commonly used to soften lines, fade old acne scars, and refresh the surface of your skin.
Pros:
Microneedling is a solid option for anyone wanting smoother skin, fewer fine lines, and smaller pores. It stimulates natural collagen production, improving skin tone and texture gradually.
It would not blow your beauty budget. It is more cost-effective compared to many other advanced treatments. It is generally well-tolerated, with minimal downtime and a quick recovery. Mild redness or sensitivity usually resolves within a couple of days.
Cons:
Microneedling is not designed to deliver instant results. Noticeable changes in skin texture usually take multiple sessions, as collagen remodelling happens gradually over weeks.
It requires a commitment to ongoing treatment. For lasting improvements, most patients will need a course of treatments followed by maintenance every few months.
Microneedling With PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Also dubbed the "vampire facial," this version steps things up by adding your body's own healing power. After drawing a small amount of blood, it is spun in a centrifuge to separate the PRP, which is rich in growth factors that are then applied to the skin during the microneedling session.
Pros:
Microneedling with PRP enhances skin healing and collagen formation beyond what standard microneedling can offer. The growth factors in PRP stimulate fibroblast activity, which contributes to more robust skin regeneration.
It is a safe and natural approach for sensitive skin types. Because it uses your own plasma, there is minimal risk of reaction, so it is suitable for individuals who want a more biologically compatible option.
It can also reduce inflammation following treatment. Patients often report less redness and quicker recovery, especially when treating delicate areas like under the eyes or around the mouth.
Cons:
Microneedling with PRP is more expensive than standard microneedling. The cost reflects the additional time, equipment, and skill required to draw blood, centrifuge it, and prepare it for safe and effective application.
You may experience more pronounced redness in the first 24 hours. The application of PRP to already needled skin can temporarily amplify the skin's response, although this usually resolves quickly.
If you are considering Parramatta PRP treatment, we offer in-depth skin assessments to determine whether this advanced treatment suits your concerns and goals.
Microneedling with Radiofrequency (RF)
This advanced treatment combines microneedling with controlled radiofrequency energy. The RF heat is delivered via the needles into the dermis, stimulating collagen production and tightening deeper skin layers simultaneously.
Pros:
Microneedling with RF is particularly beneficial for addressing skin laxity, deeper wrinkles, and acne scarring. The thermal energy encourages firmer, more lifted skin while the micro-injuries continue to improve texture over time.
It provides two benefits in a single session. Patients often notice both surface-level improvements and deeper structural changes with fewer sessions compared to standard microneedling.
Cons:
Microneedling with RF involves a higher cost and more complex technology. Due to the precision and depth involved, only trained and experienced practitioners should perform this treatment.
It is not suitable for all individuals. If your concern is pigmentation or melasma, RF might not be the best fit. Heat can sometimes make these conditions worse. In that case, sticking to standard microneedling or PRP is the safer bet.
Improper technique increases the risk of complications. In rare cases, patients may experience prolonged sensitivity, fat loss, or surface irregularities if the device is not used correctly.
If you are considering Parramatta skin needling, our clinic provides both RF and non-RF options, always prioritising patient safety and long-term skin health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key benefits of skin needling?
Skin needling has a lot of benefits:
- Promotes collagen and elastin production
- Softens fine lines and wrinkles
- Helps fade scars and stretch marks
- Reduces pore size
- Evens out skin tone and texture
- Improves skin's ability to absorb products
Skin needling stimulates collagen and elastin, which are critical for maintaining firmness and smoothness. It helps reduce fine lines, fade scars, minimise pores, and improve overall texture. Patients often notice improved absorption of active skincare ingredients, resulting in a brighter and more even complexion over time.
Is skin needling painful?
Most people describe it as mildly uncomfortable but totally manageable. A numbing cream is applied beforehand to ease any prickly sensations. Post-treatment, your skin might feel a bit tender (like a light sunburn), but this usually fades within a day or two.
How often should I get microneedling?
Treatment frequency depends on individual skin goals and the type of microneedling used. Standard microneedling is often performed every 6 to 12 weeks, while RF microneedling may only be needed every 3 to 6 months due to its deeper effects.
Is microneedling safe for everyone?
In trained hands, yes. It is generally safe for all skin types, but there are a few exceptions. If you have active acne, rosacea, or an inflammatory skin condition, microneedling can potentially make things worse. Always consult a qualified practitioner before booking in.