Morpheus8 vs Microneedling: 5 Differences to Consider
When choosing between Morpheus8 and microneedling treatment, it's essential to consider your specific skin concerns, particularly whether you’re treating mild to moderate surface imperfections or blemishes in the deeper layers of the skin. Here’s a look at how to properly compare Morpheus8 vs. microneedling and the desired outcome and downtime tolerance for each treatment.
How to Compare Morpheus8 vs. Microneedling
1. Technology
Traditional microneedling treatment uses between eight and 12 ultra-fine needles attached to a pen device to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. The goal is to stimulate the skin's natural healing response and increase collagen production. Traditional microneedling is ideal for mild to moderate skin concerns and typically, you need between 3 to 6 sessions for optimal results.
On the other hand, Morpheus8 treatment combines microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) technology to deliver RF energy to deeper skin layers. This dual approach aims to enhance collagen stimulation and provide additional skin tightening. Compared to the Réjuvapen microneedling device we use, the Morpheus8 has anywhere between 12-40 pins and a resurfacing tip, depending on where we are using the device, making it a more aggressive treatment choice.
2. Depth of Treatment
Traditional microneedling creates thousands of microscopic channels in the skin. While the depth of penetration is typically adjustable, microneedling generally targets the superficial to mid-layers of the skin. Therefore, traditional microneedling has the depth of treatment to address mild to moderate surface concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and acne-related surface imperfections.
In comparison, Morpheus8 can reach deeper layers of the skin, making it effective for addressing concerns like skin laxity across the face and along the jawline and neck. When choosing Morpheus8 vs. microneedling, it’s important to note that Morpheus8 provides more substantial tissue remodeling.
We choose Morpheus8 over other RF microneedling devices because it goes deeper than other devices on the market. Where other devices can only go to depths of about 6mm, Morpheus8 goes to 8mm. With added heat, Morpheus8 can treat up to 10 mm deep.
3. Targeted Concerns
Morpheus8 treats similar concerns as traditional microneedling; however, it’s often chosen for its effectiveness in treating more significant skin laxity and contouring issues. Increased penetration makes Morpheus8 particularly beneficial for treating deeper layers of the skin and improving elasticity. You can also combine Morpheus8 with a resurfacing tip to treat superficial fine lines, acne scarring, large pores, and more.
4. Treatment Areas
Traditional microneedling treatment areas include the face, neck, and other smaller areas of the body. Morpheus8 goes beyond the face and neck to target larger areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms. At the Chelmsford Center for Plastic Surgery, our patients turn to Morpheus8 to treat sagging skin, stretch marks, and body contour irregularities.
5. Downtime and Recovery
Both microneedling and Morpheus8 have minimal downtime after treatment. Because it’s less aggressive, the recovery time is generally shorter with traditional microneedling. Patients commonly experience mild redness and swelling that typically subsides within a few days. In comparison, the addition of RF energy in Morpheus8 may result in slightly more downtime.
Morpheus8 treatment on the face has very minimal recovery time, with mild redness for the first day or two that patients can cover with makeup (if desired) by day three. However, the neck area often remains sensitive for roughly one to two weeks after treatment, though there are no visible side effects aside from mild redness for the first few days.
Worried about the recovery process? At The Center for Plastic Surgery, we help support recovery and optimize results with skincare recommendations such as Alastin® Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology®. During your consultation, we’ll review a customized skincare regimen for you to make sure you get the most out of your treatment and maintain your results.
Seek Guidance When Choosing Morpheus8 vs Microneedling
I always recommend a consultation when evaluating Morpheus8 vs microneedling treatment. Only an experienced provider can assess your specific skin concerns and make a recommendation based on your desired outcome.
No matter if you choose Morpheus8 or traditional microneedling, look younger and fresher with the experienced team of clinical providers at the Center for Plastic Surgery just north of Boston in Chelmsford. Call (978) 393-8752 or use the booking link below to schedule your private consultation and receive a personalized treatment plan. Schedule your consultation today!
