Microneedling and laser treatments are two of the most popular options for treating common skin concerns, but both options won’t suit every patient. The right choice between microneedling vs. laser treatments will depend on your skin type, specific concerns, long-term goals, and how much downtime you’re comfortable with.
At Bend Plastic Surgery, our microneedling services are a collagen-induction treatment for wrinkles, scars, sun spots, and uneven skin tone, while our laser resurfacing services target specific concerns, such as acne scars, discoloration, age spots, and wrinkles. Both treatments can improve your skin texture and reduce the signs of premature aging, but they work differently.
Below, we’re sharing everything you need to know when choosing between microneedling and laser treatments to find the right option for your skin concerns.
Microneedling vs. Laser: What’s the Difference?
Microneedling uses fine needles, which create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering collagen production as part of the skin’s natural healing process. This collagen induction therapy can improve skin texture and elasticity, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and acne scars with relatively little downtime.
By comparison, laser treatments work by delivering specific wavelengths of light energy to the skin. Our laser skin resurfacing is designed to address melasma, pore size, fine lines, age spots, sun damage, and skin discoloration. It’s important to note that different lasers have different levels of intensity and downtime, so our team will advise on the most suitable option for your needs.
Which is Better for Your Skin Concern?
Certain skin concerns are better treated with either microneedling or laser. Below, we’re sharing a general overview of which conditions are best suited for these treatments. Some of our specialist treatments, such as Potenza RF microneedling, may be better suited for your individual concerns than standard microneedling.
| Skin concern | Microneedling or laser treatment? |
| Fine lines and wrinkles | Microneedling or laser, depending on skin condition |
| Acne scars | Microneedling, RF microneedling, or laser |
| Uneven texture | Both options are suitable |
| Sun damage or pigmentation | Laser or light-based treatment |
| Enlarged pores | Microneedling is usually recommended |
| Mild skin laxity | RF microneedling may deliver the best results |
| Significant photodamage | Laser resurfacing is usually suggested |
Microneedling vs. Laser: Which Treatment Has Less Downtime?
Like any skin treatment, it’s important to be aware of the downtime involved with microneedling and laser. Microneedling typically causes temporary redness and irritation with relatively minimal recovery involved. Our patients typically experience these symptoms for only the first few days post-treatment.
Downtime for laser skin treatments can vary, depending on the light intensity that’s used. Ablative resurfacing treatments can have up to a 2-week recovery time. If you want a laser option with limited downtime, we recommend MOXI as a non-ablative laser treatment. We’ll always share the potential side effects and likely downtime involved with your treatment during your consultation.
Book a Consultation in Bend, Oregon for Facial Aesthetics Treatments
We always recommend booking a consultation to find the best treatment for your skin and treatment goals. During your consultation, we’ll assess the condition of your skin and recommend the best options, whether it’s microneedling or another treatment like laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion, or an individualised treatment plan. Schedule a consultation and start your skin journey today.