Microneedling vs RF Microneedling: Why Radiofrequency Makes the Treatment More Effective at ProFacials, Cheltenham
- Kerry Baxter
- Feb 8
- 3 min read

Microneedling is a popular skin treatment that many people use to improve texture, reduce scars, and give the skin a youthful glow. But when paired with radiofrequency (RF) energy, its results can be significantly more powerful. If you’re wondering why RF microneedling is often considered superior, here’s a detailed look at how it works and why it might be the right option for you.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling involves using tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These small punctures trigger your body’s natural healing process, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for firm, smooth skin.
Microneedling is effective for:
Fine lines and wrinkles
Enlarged pores
Mild acne scars
Improving skin texture and tone
The levels that we work on at ProFacials Cheltenham, it primarily works in the upper dermis, which is why it’s excellent for surface-level concerns.
How RF Microneedling Adds Extra Power
RF microneedling combines the physical effect of needles with radiofrequency energy, delivering heat, deep into the skin. This combination creates a stronger, longer-lasting response than microneedling alone.
Here’s why it works:
1. Deeper Collagen Stimulation
While microneedling alone works mainly in the epidermis and a little of the dermis, RF energy penetrates deeper layers. This heat:
Causes controlled thermal coagulation
Shrinks existing low-quality collagen fibers
Stimulates fibroblasts to produce new, high-quality collagen
The result is firmer, tighter skin with improved texture that lasts longer.
2. Superior Skin Tightening
Microneedling alone improves texture and tone, but it has limited tightening effects. RF energy contracts collagen fibres instantly and encourages further collagen remodellng, helping with:
Sagging skin
Crepey texture
Loss of firmness in the face, neck, and body
3. Customisable, Precise Treatments
RF microneedling devices allow professionals to adjust:
Needle depth
RF energy level
Heat exposure
This precision makes it highly effective for acne scars, wrinkles, stretch marks, enlarged pores, and skin laxity—more so than traditional microneedling.
4. Less Surface Trauma, More Impact
Because RF energy works beneath the skin, the surface experiences less damage. This leads to:
Reduced redness and downtime
Safer treatment for a wider range of skin tones
Targeted improvement where collagen is actively formed
5. Better Results for Scars and Texture
For deeper acne scars or dense scar tissue, RF microneedling can break down scar tissue while stimulating deep collagen growth. Many clients see faster and more noticeable improvements, often requiring fewer sessions than with microneedling alone.
6. Longer-Lasting Results
RF microneedling triggers a stronger remodeling response, meaning results continue to improve for 3–6 months after treatment. This also means you might enjoy longer-lasting benefits compared to microneedling alone.
When Traditional Microneedling Is Still a Great Option
Microneedling alone is still effective if you:
Want a gentler, lower-cost option
Are focused on surface texture, glow, or product absorption
Are early in your skin-aging journey
It’s not ineffective—it just doesn’t have the deep tightening and remodelling power that RF adds.
In Summary...
If you’re looking to tackle sagging skin, stubborn scars, or deeper texture issues, RF microneedling offers a stronger, longer-lasting solution. Think of it this way:
Microneedling = wake-up call for your skin
RF microneedling = full skin reboot
Working with a trained professional at ProFacials Cheltenham, ensures that the treatment is tailored to your skin type and goals, giving you safe, effective, and visible results.
Our Aftercare promise to you...
We will always ensure that we cool your skin and provide you with a hydrating mask as part of your treatment. We also give you proper advise about how to treat your skin in the few weeks after treatment.
If you'd like to combine your microneedling radiofrequency treatment with chemical peels, you can alternate the treatments every 2 weeks. For best results, this would be x1 microneedling radiofrequency and x1 chemical peel per month, for 3 months total.
If you'd like to chat through your treatment options, please contact us:
Telephone 01242 255440

