Morpheus8 vs Microneedling: Which is Right for You?

In the pursuit of youthful, glowing skin, many turn to advanced skin rejuvenation treatments to address various skin concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to uneven texture and scars. At our Austin Laser clinics, we offer a range of cutting-edge treatments, including laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation therapies, and laser tattoo removal, all designed to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Among the array of treatments available, two stand out for their effectiveness and popularity: Morpheus8 and Microneedling.

Morpheus8 combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy to stimulate collagen production and remodel the skin’s deeper layers, making it a favorite for those seeking significant skin tightening and lifting.

On the other hand, Microneedling uses fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, triggering a natural healing response that improves texture and reduces scars.

Whether you’re aiming to restore your skin’s natural radiance or seeking targeted improvements, these treatments offer promising results.

But how do you choose the right one for you? Let’s dive into the world of Morpheus8 and Microneedling to help you make an informed decision.

Key highlights: Morpheus8 vs Microneedling

Aspect	Morpheus8	Microneedling
Technology	Combines Microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy.	Uses fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin.
Methodology	Microneedles deliver RF energy deep into the dermis, promoting collagen and elastin production for enhanced skin tightening and remodeling.	A device equipped with fine needles creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating the natural healing process and collagen production.
Best targeted areas	Suitable for the face, neck, and body. Particularly effective for areas needing significant tightening and contouring, such as the jawline, neck, and abdomen.	Ideal for the face, including sensitive areas like under the eyes and around the mouth. Also effective for treating scars and stretch marks on various parts of the body.
Best for	Individuals with moderate to severe acne scars, deep wrinkles, loose or sagging skin, significant hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks.	Individuals with mild to moderate acne scars, fine lines, enlarged pores, mild sagging, poor skin texture, sun damage, stretch marks, and uneven skin tone.
Ideal candidates	Individuals in their late 30s and older who are experiencing more advanced signs of aging, such as deep wrinkles and significant skin laxity.	Individuals starting from the mid-20s to 50s, particularly those looking to maintain or improve skin texture and address early signs of aging.
Procedure time	30 – 60 minutes, depending on the size and number of areas.	30 – 45 minutes, depending on the treatment area.
Pain	Mild to moderate	Mild
Recovery time	1 to 3 days. Full recovery within a week.	1 to 2 days. Full recovery within a few days.
Downtime	1 to 3 days	1 to 2 days
Treatment length	1 to 4 months	3 to 6 months
Average treatment cost	$1,200 – $9,000	$600 – $4,200

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What is Morpheus8?

Overview:

Morpheus8 is a cutting-edge skin rejuvenation treatment that combines Microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy. This innovative approach allows for deeper penetration into the skin, targeting the underlying layers to stimulate collagen production and promote skin remodeling. This results in improved skin texture, reduced wrinkles, and a more youthful appearance.

How it works:

Morpheus8 uses a matrix of microneedles to deliver RF energy deep into the dermis. The microneedles create micro-injuries, triggering the body’s natural healing response.

Simultaneously, the RF energy heats the underlying layers of the skin, promoting collagen and elastin production. This dual-action process enhances skin tightening, reduces fine lines, and improves overall skin tone and texture.

FDA approval:

Morpheus8 is FDA-approved, ensuring that it meets the highest safety and efficacy standards. This approval provides peace of mind for clients, knowing they are receiving a treatment that has been thoroughly evaluated and deemed safe by regulatory authorities.

Ready to try Morpheus8 in Austin? Schedule your appointment today.

What is Microneedling?

Overview:

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatment designed to improve skin texture and tone.

It involves using a device equipped with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, which trigger the body’s natural healing processes.

This treatment is widely popular for its ability to reduce the appearance of scars, fine lines, and large pores while promoting overall skin renewal.

How it works:

During a Microneedling session, a specialized device with tiny, sterile needles is gently rolled or stamped across the skin’s surface.

These needles create micro-channels or tiny punctures in the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural wound healing process, which includes the production of new collagen and elastin. As the skin repairs itself, it becomes smoother, firmer, and more youthful in appearance.

FDA approval:

Microneedling devices vary, with some being FDA approved for specific indications. It’s important to choose a reputable clinic that uses FDA-approved microneedling devices to ensure safety and efficacy. The FDA approval indicates that the device has been rigorously tested and meets the necessary safety standards for medical treatments.

Austin Laser uses the Candela device for microneedling, which has FDA approval for treating facial acne scars and wrinkles. The Candela is the first microneedling device to receive dual FDA clearance.

Ready to try Morpheus8 in Austin? Schedule your appointment today.

Morpheus8 vs Microneedling: A side-by-side comparison

What technology and methodology do each use?

Morpheus8:
Morpheus8 combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy, creating a powerful skin rejuvenation treatment. The microneedles penetrate the skin to a customizable depth, delivering RF energy directly to the dermis.
This dual-action process stimulates collagen and elastin production, tightening and remodeling the skin from within. The combination of mechanical and thermal effects enhances the overall efficacy, making it a versatile treatment for various skin concerns.

Microneedling:
Microneedling involves using a device with fine, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface.
These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing response, leading to increased collagen and elastin production.
The process improves skin texture, reduces the appearance of scars and fine lines, and promotes overall skin renewal. Microneedling can be adjusted in terms of needle length and treatment intensity, allowing for customization based on individual skin needs.

What skin areas can you target with each?

Morpheus8:
Morpheus8 is suitable for treating various areas of the face, neck, and body.
It is particularly effective for areas that require significant tightening and contouring, such as the jawline, neck, and abdomen.
The RF energy’s ability to penetrate deeply into the skin makes it ideal for addressing more pronounced sagging and skin laxity, providing comprehensive skin remodeling and rejuvenation.

Microneedling:
Microneedling is versatile and can be used on the face and various body parts. It is especially effective for sensitive areas like under the eyes and around the mouth, where precision is crucial.
Additionally, Microneedling is beneficial for treating scars, stretch marks, and other skin imperfections on different body areas. The treatment’s precision allows for even skin texture and a reduction in the appearance of scars and fine lines.

Which skin concerns is each best for?

Morpheus8 is particularly effective for:
Deep wrinkles: The combination of microneedling and RF energy penetrates deeply to reduce deep-set wrinkles.
Moderate to severe acne scars: The treatment targets deeper layers of the skin, making it ideal for addressing more severe acne scars.
Skin tightening: The RF energy promotes collagen production, making it excellent for tightening sagging skin on the face, neck, and body.
Loose skin: Particularly effective for areas with significant skin laxity.
Hyperpigmentation: The thermal energy can help reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
Stretch marks: The deep penetration helps improve the appearance of stretch marks.

Microneedling is particularly effective for:
Acne scars: Effective for mild to moderate acne scars, promoting smoother skin texture.
Enlarged pores: Helps to reduce the appearance of large pores by stimulating collagen around the pores.
Mild sagging: Provides a subtle lift and improvement in skin firmness.
Fine lines: Excellent for reducing fine lines, particularly around the eyes and mouth.
Poor skin texture: Improves overall skin texture by stimulating collagen production.
Stretch marks: Can be used on various body areas to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Sun damage: Helps to repair and rejuvenate sun-damaged skin.
Uneven skin tone: Promotes a more even skin tone and reduces discoloration.

Who is a better candidate for each treatment?

Morpheus8 is better suited for older individuals with more advanced skin concerns, such as deep wrinkles and significant skin laxity. It is ideal for those looking for a more intensive treatment with dramatic results.

Microneedling is more versatile and suitable for a broader age range, addressing a variety of skin concerns from mild to moderate acne scars to fine lines and poor skin texture. It is perfect for those seeking a minimally invasive treatment with quicker recovery times.

How do the procedures compare?

Procedure time

Morpheus8:
Typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and number of areas being treated.

Microneedling:
Generally lasts 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the treatment area and the specific device used.

Pain

Morpheus8:
Mild to moderate discomfort during the procedure. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand to minimize pain.

Microneedling:
Mild discomfort during the procedure. Topical numbing cream is used to alleviate pain, making the treatment more comfortable.

Recovery time

Morpheus8:
Initial redness and swelling for 1 to 3 days. Full recovery typically within a week, with visible improvements continuing over several weeks as collagen production increases.

Full recovery can vary depending on the client and typically takes anywhere from 3 to 7 days. The full results can start within 3 months post 3rd treatment, with continued improvement over time as new collagen forms.

Microneedling:
Redness and mild swelling for 1 to 2 days. Full recovery within a few days, with continued improvement over several weeks as new collagen forms.

Full recovery can vary depending on the client and typically takes anywhere from 3 to 7 days. The initial results can start within a few days, with continued improvement over several weeks as new collagen forms.

Downtime

Morpheus8:
Minimal downtime. Most patients can return to normal activities within 1 to 3 days. However, it’s recommended to avoid strenuous activities and direct sun exposure for a few days.

Microneedling:
Minimal downtime. Most patients can resume normal activities within 1 to 2 days. It’s advisable to avoid sun exposure and strenuous activities for a few days post-treatment.

Aftercare, side effects & risks

Morpheus8:
Aftercare: Use gentle skincare products, avoid sun exposure, and apply sunscreen. Keep the treated area clean and moisturized.
Side effects: Redness, swelling, and minor bruising are common and usually subside within a few days.
Risks: Rare risks include infection, prolonged redness, or hyperpigmentation, especially if post-care instructions are not followed.

For more instructions on Morpheus8 aftercare, check out our Morpheus8 post-treatment care guide.

Microneedling:
Aftercare: Avoid sun exposure, use gentle skincare products, and keep the skin moisturized. Sunscreen is essential.
Side effects: Redness, swelling, and minor bruising are common, typically resolving within a few days.
Risks: Risks are minimal but can include infection, prolonged redness, or hyperpigmentation if proper aftercare is not followed.

For more instructions on Morpheus8 aftercare, check out our Microneedling post-treatment care guide.

Effectiveness

Morpheus8:
Highly effective for deep wrinkles, significant skin tightening, and moderate to severe acne scars. Results can be seen after one session, with optimal results appearing after a series of treatments.

Microneedling:
Very effective for improving skin texture, reducing fine lines, and treating mild to moderate acne scars. Multiple sessions are usually needed to achieve the best results, with noticeable improvements appearing gradually as collagen production increases.

Treatment length

Morpheus8:
Most patients require a series of 1 to 3 sessions spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart to achieve optimal results.
To maintain youthful-looking skin, touch-up treatments with Morpheus 8 are recommended 1-2 times per year.
For more severe skin concerns, additional sessions may be recommended by the practitioner.

Microneedling:
Typically, a series of 3 to 6 sessions is recommended, spaced about 4 weeks apart.
The exact number of sessions needed varies based on individual skin concerns and goals. Maintenance treatments may be suggested every 6 to 12 months.

Cost

Morpheus8 costs:
Average cost per session: $500 – $1700
Average total cost for treatment: $700 – $4335
Factors influencing cost:
The size of the treatment area(s).
The number of sessions required to achieve desired results.
The geographic location of the clinic.
The experience and expertise of the practitioner.

Microneedling costs:
Average cost per session: $360
Average total cost for treatment: $1080 – $1447.20
Factors influencing cost:
The size of the treatment area(s).
The number of sessions needed.
The type of Microneedling device used (e.g., traditional Microneedling vs. Microneedling with PRP).
The geographic location of the clinic.
The experience and expertise of the practitioner.

Morpheus8 vs Microneedling

Microneedling for acne scars

Brief description of the process: Microneedling is an effective treatment for reducing acne scars by stimulating collagen production. The process involves using fine needles to create tiny, controlled micro-injuries in the skin, which prompts natural healing and improves skin texture. Typically, 3-6 sessions are recommended, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, depending on the severity of the scars. After each session, the skin may be red and slightly swollen, similar to a mild sunburn, but this subsides within a few days. Over time, you’ll notice a gradual improvement as your skin becomes smoother and scars fade.

Morpheus8 for crows feet

Brief description of the process: Morpheus8 is a minimally invasive treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to reduce crow’s feet around the eyes. It stimulates deep collagen production, leading to smoother, tighter skin and a noticeable reduction in fine lines. Typically, 3 sessions are recommended, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. The procedure involves applying a topical numbing cream, followed by the use of the Morpheus8 device to target deeper skin layers. Mild redness and swelling may occur post-treatment, but these effects usually subside within a few days, with results improving over the following weeks.

Which treatment is right for you?

Deciding between Morpheus8 and Microneedling depends on your specific skin concerns, goals, and desired results.

Microneedling is more versatile and suitable for a broader age range, addressing a variety of skin concerns from mild to moderate acne scars to fine lines and poor skin texture. It is perfect for those seeking a minimally invasive treatment with quicker recovery times.

At Austin Laser Solutions, we offer both treatments and can help you determine the best option for your unique needs during a personalized consultation. Contact us today or book a session to start your journey towards healthier, more radiant skin.

Sources

https://inmodemd.com/clinical-papers/
https://candelamedical.com/resources/clinical-papers/

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