Laser Facials vs Microneedling for Improving Skin

If you’ve stepped foot into a beauty salon or boutique in the last decade, chances are you’ve heard of laser facial treatments and microneedling. They’re both popular cosmetic procedures used to improve the appearance of skin, but the approaches they take toward the same goal are very different. Understanding what sets them apart is important in deciding which treatment to get for yourself.

Laser Vs. Skin Needling: How Do They Work?

Laser facial treatments use some type of intense pulsed light to target specific areas of the skin. Our machine uses broadband light (BBL), which has been shown to improve skin right down to the cellular level.

The light is set to a specific frequency to match the targeted cells, then penetrates deep into the skin where it is absorbed by specific molecules that respond to that frequency. This energy heats the tissue, causing it to contract – and this stimulates production of collagen, elastin, and other vital compounds that lead to smoother, tighter skin. This method of highly-targeted pulsed light can also be used to destroy unwanted pigments and blood vessels, improving the appearance of sun damage, age spots, acne scars, and redness.

Microneedling, on the other hand, uses a device with very small needles moving up and down at high speed. Here at Bardöt Beauty, we use the SkinPen (and we love it)! These create tiny punctures in the skin, which then naturally repairs itself by producing new collagen and elastin, leading to firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin. Microneedling can also be combined with other topical treatments like serums to enhance their penetration into the skin and maximize their benefits. This is included in your treatment here at Bardöt, too.

Can Laser Therapy Cause Cancer?

This is a common misconception that we’ve covered before. The light used in IPL and other laser therapies is non-ionizing, which means it can’t cause cancer in cells. What’s more, it’s targeted so precisely that it can actually be used as a non-invasive cancer treatment! Read more at our recent blog about it.

Differences Between Laser Facials and Microneedling

So, who wins in the battle of laser vs. SkinPen? We don’t really look at it as a competition in the first place. Generally speaking, both treatments are effective ways to improve the appearance of aging skin and address skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. They’re two sides of the same thing. They can also be used on different parts of the body, such as the face, neck, and hands, to rejuvenate and revitalize the skin.

However, there are also some crucial differences between the two treatments. Laser facials are faster and can treat a larger area of skin in a shorter amount of time, making them ideal for those with busy schedules. Lasers can also target specific skin concerns, such as sun damage and redness, more effectively than microneedling. You likely won’t need any anaesthetic for this process, as it involves minimal discomfort. One thing to note though, is that because it involves the skin absorbing energy, the risks of burns can go up for people with darker skin tones.

Microneedling has a lower risk of side effects, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin, and the downtime is usually only a day or so (compared to about a week for laser therapy). It is also a more cost-effective option compared to laser facials, though you will have to come in for appointments a little bit more frequently until the results are fully noticeable. This takes anywhere from 1-3 months, as opposed to BBL’s average of just seven days!

Regardless of which type you choose, you can expect your results to last for a few months as your skin heals. Laser therapies like BBL tend to last a bit longer, even up to a year, with the right after-care.

Side Effects of Laser Facials vs Microneedling

Both laser facials and microneedling come with risks and potential side effects, such as redness, swelling, and scarring. Lasers can also cause burns similar to sunburns, which may then become infected if not properly cleaned and treated.

As with any medical aesthetic service, the best way to minimize these risks is to choose a reputable technician who is experienced, trained, and ready for the procedure. Aside from that, one of the most important things you can do is follow proper pre- and post-treatment care instructions, such as avoiding sun exposure and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen as you recover. This will ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications.

Laser Facials and Mirconeedling in Calgary

Do you still have questions about these two procedures? We’re happy to help you make an informed decision on the science, expectations, and outcomes, so that you can get the best possible results for your skin. Reach out today to book a consultation, so you’ll have up-to-date and accurate recommendations on your most effective course of action. We look forward to helping you look and feel the best you can be, with a full range of services to cover all your cosmetic and medical aesthetics needs!