Today, we will be delving into the differences between two similar (and popular) in-office skin treatments: microneedling and Morpheus8 (aka rf microneedling). Both of these skin treatments are backed by data confirming their efficacy in treating a variety of skin conditions such as fine lines and wrinkles, skin laxity, enlarged pores, scars, and uneven skin texture.

How does microneedling work?

Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy, is the process in which tiny needles re penetrated into the skin to create micro-wounds. The skin then repairs itself in the weeks following by creating new collagen. SkinPen is the only microneedling pen that is both FDA and Health Canada Approved to treat acne scars and neck wrinkles. It uses the highest quality of needles to produce a precise wound without dragging on the skin. SkinPen also pulses at a rate of 1600 pulses per second, which means millions of micro-wounds are created during a single treatment! This microneedling pen uses a depth of 0.25 to 2.5mm deep (typically, we only go to 1.75mm though). The procedure is nearly painless and has about one day of downtime.

How does Morpheus8 work?

Morpheus8 is a powerful treatment that combines the benefits of Collagen Induction Therapy, with radiofrequency energy. RF is the gold-standard for tightening, as it heats the dermis to cause collagen to build, shrinking and firming loose or sagging skin. Morpheus8 uses sterile needles that are insulated with silicone, leaving only the very point exposed. Why? Because the silicone protects the most superficial layers of the skin from the RF energy to reduce trauma and downtime. With Morpheus8, we use a deeper needle penetration of 0.5mm-4mm. When the RF is delivered at the deepest point of penetration, it can also remodel the fat cells. This means that the fat cells are squished and compressed into a more aesthetically-pleasing formation. This process is especially beneficial in creating a deeper contour to the jawline and under the chin. The pain level on this treatment is also higher. It requires extra numbing time and additional pain-control -protocols than microneedling. The treatment also takes longer, typically 45 minutes for a full face session.

What are the differences between microneedling and Morpheus8?

1. Depth of needle penetration. Microneedling uses a more shallow depth than Morpheus8.
2. Amount of micro-wounds created. Microneedling created millions of micro-wounds, whereas Morpheus8 created approximately 25,000-40,000 micro-wounds.
3. Presence of RF. Microneedling does not have RF, so the tightening effect is reduced.
4. Pain level. Microneedling is very low on the pain scale, and Morpheus8 is moderate.
5. Downtime. Microneedling has about 1-2 days of downtime, and Morpheus8 has about 2-5 days of downtime.

Microneedling Cost

Microneedling is significantly cheaper than Morpheus8. The going rate for a single session of microneedling is $200-$400, varying largely on your location and type of device used.

Morpheus8 Cost

Morpheus8 is typically $800+ for a single session, also varying largely on your location and the reputation of the provider.

What one should I choose?

This is largely dependant on your skin concerns, desired outcome, health condition, budget, and lifestyle. Most often, microneedling is recommended for younger patients that do not seek drastic skin tightening or want to address textural concerns, or build collagen preventatively. Morpheus8 is better suited for more mature patients that are looking to achieve skin tightening and fat remodeling.

Both treatments have best results with a series of 2-5 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. It will also take at least one month to start seeing results, with gradual changes happening for up to 6 months after your series is complete!

If you have questions about microneedling in Calgary or Morpheus8 Calgary and would like to speak with a qualified professional, book your free consultation here.