Microneedling vs. Lasers

Microneedling is a skin treatment during which dermatologists make small puncture holes in the skin to stimulate collagen growth. ⁽¹⁾ Conversely, laser treatments use light energy to effectively address skin discoloration and wrinkles, instead of penetrative needles. ⁽²⁾

While both treatments have similar goals of rejuvenating the skin and remedying signs of aging, laser treatments offer many benefits over microneedling. Laser treatments allow for more precision, better results, and less necessary return visits to maintain results. ⁽²⁾ If you have a specific skin issue you would like to address, it is very likely that there is a laser that has been specifically designed for that issue. Microneedling, on the other hand, is oftentimes a more broad, less personalized treatment experience. If you are simply looking for a way to make your skin look years younger, laser treatments are also effective and produce long-lasting effects.

At Derm & Rejuvenation Institute, Dr. Tanya Kormeili is a talented board-certified dermatologist who is committed to helping patients achieve healthier-looking skin through a variety of treatments, including laser treatments.

To schedule a consultation at our office in Santa Monica, please call (310) 526-8301 or fill out our contact form and we will help you set up an appointment.

What Can Lasers Treat?

Lasers harness specific wavelengths of light for skin resurfacing, stimulating collagen production and prompting the body to heal and regenerate healthier skin cells. Laser therapy is a highly versatile treatment modality that can address common issues like:

At Derm & Rejuvenation Institute, we offer many different laser options that serve as alternative treatments to less effective microneedling techniques. These treatments can address any combination of the aforementioned skin problems and put you on a path toward younger-looking skin. During a personal consultation with Dr. Kormeili, we will conduct in-depth evaluations to determine what kind of laser treatment will best address your concerns.

Why Choose Lasers Instead of Microneedling

There are many reasons to choose laser treatments instead of microneedling. Firstly, laser treatments allow for a more targeted, precise treatment. This is thanks to the selectivity of lasers, which allow dermatologists to use light energy that works on specific areas at a time while sparing the surrounding tissues. To add, there are certain conditions that microneedling simply cannot address, such as red facial veins. Meanwhile, microneedling is a less personalized procedure because of how it is used broadly over the treatment area. ⁽³⁾

Laser treatments can also provide results much sooner after just one treatment. Laser treatments are more efficient; it is likely that you will see results that are more prominent compared to the results of a microneedling session. Additionally, these results will last longer, meaning you will need to return to the office less. Despite the often reduced up-front cost of microneedling, microneedling often requires multiple different sessions in order for patients to get the results they are seeking. These session costs can add up, making laser therapy a more cost-efficient option in the long run. ⁽³⁾

Adverse Effects of Microneedling

Adverse effects of microneedling are potential negative reactions or complications that can occur after undergoing the treatment. Although many find success, it is essential to be aware of possible downsides, as some individuals may experience lasting issues. Adverse effects can vary widely among individuals based on their unique skin types, sensitivity levels, and adherence to post-procedure care, and may include the following: ⁽⁴⁾⁽⁵⁾

Laser Treatment Options at Derm & Rejuvenation Institute

Ematrix Laser

The Syneron Emax Matrix IR, also known as the Ematrix laser, is a type of laser tool that is combined with a cooling mechanism. This cooling mechanism makes the treatment more comfortable while it dramatically improves the look and feel of the skin. The Ematrix laser can address facial wrinkles and also wrinkles on the chin and neck. The Ematrix laser works by combining two different laser technologies, bipolar radiofrequency and optical energy, that will allow for new collagen growth and also make the skin more elastic.

Fraxel Laser

The Fraxel laser is a treatment that is less invasive than other fractional laser techniques, like CO2. Fractional laser techniques address a fraction of an area at a time with many small beams of light. This selective approach rejuvenates your skin through controlled micro-injuries, stimulating your body’s natural healing processes and promoting collagen production. It can treat sun-damaged skin on the face, neck, and chest. Fraxel treatments can be customized to address a specific problem in the skin. The effect the Fraxel laser has on these areas is that of firmer and smoother skin.

Q-switched Alexandrite Laser

The Q-switched Alexandrite laser is commonly used for tattoo removal, but it can also be used to treat lesions, age spots, and discoloration. As it targets tattoo ink, the Q-switched Alexandrite Laser is especially effective for targeting the dark pigments that are present in these kinds of skin problems. It delivers short energy pulses into the skin that can break up these pigmented areas. Meanwhile, the surrounding tissues are preserved, thanks to the laser’s selective nature.

Vbeam Laser

Vbeam is most effective for targeting and reducing redness. This tool works by selectively targeting pigmented blood vessels with light energy and destroying them without destroying the surrounding skin. This method can remove facial veins, scars, stretch marks, rosacea, and most other red-pigmented conditions of the face.

Candidates for Laser Treatment

If you are looking to rejuvenate your skin for any reason, you are most likely a good candidate for laser skin therapy. If you are currently undergoing certain kinds of acne medication treatments or have recently gotten a chemical peel, we may ask that you wait at least 6 months to a year after these treatments are complete before considering a laser procedure. ⁽²⁾ We will also not perform laser treatments on patients who have active infections in any of the areas that will be treated. ⁽²⁾ Dr. Kormeili will help you determine if you are eligible for laser treatment after your personal consultation at our Santa Monica office.

Personal Consultation

During a personal consultation with Dr. Kormeili, we will evaluate your skin and learn about your skin concerns and goals. There will be many different variables to consider, such as skin texture, pigmentation, elasticity, current conditions, and past treatments. Based on the information we obtain during this meeting, Dr. Kormeili will help you decide what kind of laser treatment would be most effective for your skin. To schedule a consultation at our office in Santa Monica, please call (310) 526-8301 or fill out our contact form and we will help you set up an appointment as soon as possible.

Preparation

To prepare you for your laser treatment, we will begin with an examination of your skin to consider the treatment plan that will be most effective for your skin. Dr. Kormeili will provide you with specific instructions for how to prepare for the day of your laser treatment, as well as what to consider during recovery. It will be helpful to arrive at the office with a makeup-free face and any piercings or jewelry removed beforehand. Antiviral medications can also be provided to you if you are are risk for any viral outbreaks. ⁽²⁾

Procedure

Each laser treatment procedure looks a little different because of the different technologies that can be used. In a comfortable reclined position, we will begin by placing protective covers over your eyes. We will clean the targeted areas and administer topical numbing medications. During your procedure, we may also introduce cold air to the face to allow for a more comfortable experience. With the chosen handheld laser device, Dr. Kormeili will then address the targeted areas. ⁽²⁾

Recovery from Laser Treatments

After your laser treatment, we recommend that you use cold compresses over the treated area. This will help reduce irritation and soothe the skin. We will let you know what kind of ointment you should use on your face, as it is important that the skin stays hydrated for a period of time after your treatment. ⁽²⁾ Because most lasering treatments work by removing damaged skin, there may be some visible crusting as the skin begins to heal and generate new tissue. It is also always important to use sun protection, but it is even more important to do so after your treatment, as your skin will be more sensitive. ⁽²⁾ Wear sunscreen, hats, and be mindful of your time in the sun.

Recovery time will vary depending on the intensity and depth of your treatment, as well as the kind of laser that was used. Recovery times for laser treatments generally range from 1-2 weeks but can be shorter or longer depending on the treatment.

Results

Laser treatments often produce more prominent results than microneedling because of lasers’ enhanced abilities. ⁽³⁾ It is an effective way to treat facial scars, lesions, sun spots, redness, and more. As a result of your laser treatment, you can feel more comfortable and confident with your facial appearance, with skin that appears more even and more youthful.

Cost of Laser Therapy in Santa Monica

While microneedling may appear to be more cost-effective at first glance, results from microneedling do not usually last long–meaning patients often require multiple follow-up treatments to maintain any substantial results. Laser therapy lasts longer, making for a higher cost efficiency in many cases. To find out what your specific laser therapy will cost you, please reach out to our Santa Monica office at (310) 526-8301 or fill out our contact form to schedule an informative personal consultation.

Read more about our treatments on our blog.

References

1. Iosifidis C, Goutos I. Percutaneous collagen induction (microneedling) for the management of non-atrophic scars: literature review. Scars, Burns & Healing. 2019;5:205951311988030. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/2059513119880301
2. Verma N, Yumeen S, Raggio BS. Ablative Laser Resurfacing. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557474/
3. Soham Meghe, Vikrant Saoji, Bhushan Madke, Singh A. Efficacy of Microneedling and CO2 Laser for Acne Scar Remodelling: A Comprehensive Review. Curēus. 2024;16(2). doi:https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.55092
4. Litchman G, Nair PA, Badri T, Kelly SE. Microneedling. Nih.gov. Published September 26, 2022. Accessed August 16, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459344/#:~:text=Common%2C%20expected%20complications%20include%3A
5. Gowda A, Healey B, Ezaldein H, Merati M. A Systematic Review Examining the Potential Adverse Effects of Microneedling. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2021;14(1):45-54. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7869810/