Microneedling vs RF Microneedling: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve been researching ways to improve your skin’s texture, tone, or firmness, you’ve likely come across two popular treatments: microneedling and RF microneedling, sometimes marketed under brand names like Morpheus8. Both aim to stimulate collagen and support skin rejuvenation, but they work differently, and they’re not interchangeable.
At Allure Aesthetics, we believe in clarity and clinical honesty. While we offer advanced microneedling with PRP and medical-grade topicals, we do not offer RF microneedling or Morpheus8. That choice is intentional and based on what consistently delivers the best outcomes for our clients.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, uses ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing cascade, leading to increased collagen and elastin production.
It’s one of the most elegant, non-surgical treatments for:
• Fine lines and early signs of aging
• Acne scarring and enlarged pores
• Uneven skin tone or rough skin texture
At Allure, we customize each treatment to your skin’s specific needs, combining microneedling with:
• PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to support regeneration
• Medical-grade serums for hydration and radiance
• Skin boosters to firm and refine the skin over time
Downtime is minimal, typically 24 to 48 hours of mild redness. Results build gradually, and most clients notice visible improvement after a series of treatments.
What Is RF Microneedling?
RF microneedling is a variation on traditional microneedling, introducing radiofrequency energy into the skin through the same microchannels. As the needles penetrate the skin, they deliver thermal energy into the dermis. This heat is meant to enhance collagen remodeling and encourage a mild skin-tightening effect.
Devices like Morpheus8 have made this treatment more well-known, especially on social media. And while the technology can sound more “advanced,” more stimulation isn’t always better. Here’s why:
• Tightening effects are typically modest and variable
• Results depend heavily on the provider, settings, and device quality
• There is an increased risk of unwanted side effects, including fat atrophy, the unintended loss of facial volume due to heat applied too deeply
In clients with more significant skin laxity, we often find that RF microneedling doesn’t offer the level of tightening some expect. In those cases, surgical options are more appropriate.
Why We Don’t Offer RF Microneedling
Our decision not to include RF microneedling in our practice is rooted in both clinical experience and client outcomes.
We’ve found that combining microneedling with PRP, skin boosters, and other advanced regenerative options consistently yields beautiful, lasting results without the added risks of RF energy. Especially for clients focused on preserving facial volume, avoiding unnecessary thermal injury is a priority.
Our approach is tailored to the individual however, and never one-size-fits-all. Every recommendation is made with your long-term results and aesthetic goals in mind. If we believe RF microneedling is a good option for you, we would happily refer you to colleagues that do offer it.
What We Recommend Instead
Rather than relying on RF-based treatments like Morpheus8, we take a layered approach to skin rejuvenation. Depending on your goals, we may recommend:
• Microneedling with PRP or serums – for texture refinement, brightness, and collagen support
• Biostimulatory fillers like Radiesse – to stimulate your own collagen over time
• Light-based therapies such as Moxi or BBL – to address tone, pigment, and early aging
• Chemical peels – like The Perfect Derma Peel, to resurface, brighten, and reset the skin
Every treatment is part of a larger aesthetic plan designed to evolve with you, not a quick fix or an isolated solution.
The Takeaway
Both microneedling and RF microneedling stimulate collagen and improve skin quality. But they’re not one-size-fits-all. If you’re looking to address fine lines, acne scars, or early skin laxity with precision and safety, microneedling with PRP remains a trusted cornerstone of our approach.
And while Morpheus8 and similar RF technologies may have a role in other practices, we focus on proven, customizable methods with a track record of results and minimal risk.
If you have questions about microneedling or any of our other skin care options, feel free to call or text us at 610-393-1253 or email us at info@allureaestheticsllc.com.
Or if you’re ready to begin, visit our booking page to schedule your appointment today.
