When it comes to discussing fraxel laser vs. skin needling, they are essentially both effective options for skin treatments. However, while they both work by triggering the skin’s healing process, they do so in different ways.
The main difference comes down to how deeply they target the skin and the way they create controlled damage to stimulate new cell growth.
If you’re considering either of these treatments, understanding how each one works, what to expect during the process, and how they compare can help you decide which might be more suitable to your needs. Read on to learn more about each treatment option.
How Fraxel laser works
Fraxel is a type of fractional laser treatment, meaning it targets the skin in tiny, controlled sections while leaving the surrounding areas untouched.
Using fractional photothermolysis, it works by delivering precise beams of laser energy into the skin, creating microscopic channels. These channels trigger the body’s natural healing response, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin, which are important structural proteins in the skin.
Since the laser is fractionated, it allows for a more controlled approach compared to traditional fully ablative lasers, which typically remove entire layers of skin.
How skin needling works
Skin needling, also known as microneedling, uses a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin.
Unlike Fraxel, which uses laser energy, skin needling relies on mechanical stimulation to trigger collagen production. The needles create tiny punctures in the skin, which signal the body to repair itself by producing new collagen and elastin.
The depth of the needles can be adjusted depending on the condition being treated, with deeper penetration typically used for issues like acne scarring. A difference to note when compared to Fraxel laser is that skin needling doesn’t use heat, which means there’s less risk of heat-related damage to the skin. However, it could still have other contraindications, so it’s still important to have an assessment before your treatment to make sure that you’re a suitable candidate.
What to expect during and after each type of treatment
Both Fraxel laser and skin needling involve controlled injury to the skin, so some level of downtime is expected with each.
The extent of the recovery period for each type of treatment will really come down to the intensity of the treatment.
Overall, Fraxel laser tends to have a more noticeable recovery period. Straight after the procedure, the skin will usually appear red and may feel warm, similar to a sunburn. In the days following, some swelling and peeling can occur as the skin heals. The intensity of these effects will depend on the settings used and the depth of treatment. Most people find that the skin takes around a week to return to normal, though non-ablative Fraxel treatments typically involve less downtime.
Skin needling generally has a milder recovery period. Immediately after the procedure, the skin will be red and may feel slightly rough or sensitive. The redness usually subsides within a couple of days, and any peeling or dryness that occurs tends to be minimal. Since the treatment doesn’t involve heat, there’s usually less swelling compared to laser treatments.
Which treatment is better suited for different skin concerns?
Fraxel laser vs skin needling is a common comparison when considering treatments for skin texture, scars, pigmentation, and general skin rejuvenation. Both can be effective, but the choice depends on the specific skin concern being targeted.
Fraxel laser is often used for deeper skin concerns, such as significant sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Since it penetrates deeper into the skin’s layers, it’s more suited for treating more significant skin concerns that may require a stronger approach. It’s also commonly used for pigmentation, as the laser can help break down areas of excess pigment.
Skin needling is often chosen for improving overall skin texture and minor scarring. It’s a good option for mild acne scars, enlarged pores, and general skin rejuvenation. Because it doesn’t use heat, it can also be more suitable for those who have a history of pigmentation issues or sensitivity to laser treatments.
Both treatments stimulate collagen production, but Fraxel generally provides more dramatic results in fewer sessions. Skin needling, on the other hand, may require multiple treatments over time to achieve similar effects, but can be better suited to certain skin concerns.
For acne scarring, in particular, Fractionated Radiofrequency Microneedling treatments (like Secret RF) can be more effective than traditional microneedling. To further prompt the skin’s healing response and penetrate deeper into the layers, radiofrequency energy sends heat into the scarred area while the microneedles precisely puncture the skin.
Essentially, when it comes to your skin concerns, it’s always best to discuss your needs during a consultation so that the most suitable treatment can be recommended to you.
How the treatments compare in terms of sessions and results
With Fraxel laser, results can often be seen after just one session, but multiple treatments may be needed for more significant concerns. The number of sessions required will depend on the depth of the treatment and the skin issues being addressed.
Skin needling is typically done as a series of treatments, with sessions spaced a few weeks apart. The effects are more gradual, as collagen production takes time. While some improvement can be seen after the first treatment, the most noticeable results generally come after multiple sessions.
Choosing the right treatment for your skin
Deciding between Fraxel laser vs skin needling depends on the severity of your skin concerns, your skin type, and how much downtime you’re prepared for.
Fraxel laser is more intensive and provides more noticeable results in a shorter period, but it also involves more recovery time. Skin needling is less invasive with a shorter recovery period, but it usually requires multiple sessions to achieve similar results.
A consultation with a cosmetic physician can help determine which treatment is most suitable for your skin concerns. They can assess your skin and recommend an approach that aligns with your goals and expectations.
Why choose The DOC Clinic in Melbourne for your next skin treatment
The DOC Clinic and its team are led by Dr Ed Omarjee, a leading cosmetic physician.
Dr Ed performs treatments at various cosmetic and beauty clinics located around Metropolitan Melbourne and in Northern Victoria.
With the relevant training and experience, Dr Ed continues to stay up to date with changes in treatment technology, to provide his patients with quality treatment experiences.
To schedule an appointment at The DOC Clinic and discuss whether Fraxel laser or skin needling is right for you, please feel free to contact our team at your closest location.
