RF Microneedling vs Traditional Microneedling

What is traditional microneedling?

Traditional microneedling uses a handheld device fitted with ultra-fine needles. These needles create hundreds of controlled microchannels in the skin and trigger the skin’s natural repair response.

As the skin heals, collagen and elastin production is stimulated. Over time, this can help improve the appearance of:

At Collins Cosmetic Clinic, SkinPen skin needling may be recommended for patients seeking a minimally invasive, non-heat treatment.

Because traditional microneedling does not use heat, it may be preferred for some darker skin types where heat-related pigmentation changes are a concern. A consultation is still important before treatment.

What is RF microneedling?

RF microneedling combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy.

During treatment, ultra-fine needles enter the skin at a controlled depth. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered through the needle tips into deeper layers of the skin.

This creates controlled heat beneath the skin’s surface, supporting collagen and elastin production and targeting deeper concerns.

RF microneedling may be recommended for:

At Collins Cosmetic Clinic, we use the Genius RF Microneedling system.

Before and after images are provided as a guide only. Individual results vary, and realistic treatment expectations will be discussed during your consultation.

How does Genius RF Microneedling work?

Genius RF uses fine, insulated needles to deliver radiofrequency energy beneath the skin’s surface.

The depth of the needles can be adjusted according to the treatment area and concern being addressed. This allows energy to be delivered into selected layers of the skin while limiting unnecessary heat at the surface.

The system also uses real-time impedance monitoring. This provides feedback during treatment and helps the device deliver energy more precisely into the target tissue.

This level of control allows treatments to be adjusted for different areas of the face, neck and body.

What is the main difference between RF microneedling and SkinPen?

RF microneedling may be considered when the treatment goal includes skin tightening, deeper acne scarring or more intensive collagen stimulation.

Traditional microneedling may be more appropriate for patients concerned with superficial texture, pores, fine lines or minor scarring, particularly when a non-heat-based treatment is preferred.

Is RF microneedling better than traditional microneedling?

One treatment is not always better than the other. The most appropriate choice depends on:

A consultation allows the clinician to assess your skin and recommend the option most likely to suit your needs.

Can RF microneedling tighten the skin?

RF microneedling is often used for patients concerned about mild skin laxity.

The radiofrequency energy heats targeted tissue beneath the skin’s surface. This controlled heat can encourage collagen contraction and longer-term collagen remodelling.

Over time, this may help the treated area look firmer and more refined.

Which areas can be treated?

Depending on the treatment selected, microneedling may be used across areas including:

Sensitive areas require careful assessment, and not every device or treatment setting is suitable for every part of the face or body.

What should I expect after treatment?

After traditional microneedling, the skin may feel hot and appear red, similar to mild sunburn. Some dryness or flaking may occur as the skin heals.

After Genius RF Microneedling, redness, swelling and a mild burning sensation are also common. Small areas of bruising may occasionally occur.

Most initial redness and swelling settles over the first 48 hours, although recovery may take longer after stronger treatments or in more sensitive skin.

At Collins Cosmetic Clinic, LED phototherapy with the HEALITE device may be used immediately after Genius RF treatment to support recovery.

Your clinician will provide detailed aftercare instructions based on your treatment and skin.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments depends on the condition being treated, the device used and the outcome you are hoping to achieve.

A series of treatments is often recommended, with sessions spaced apart to allow the skin time to heal and begin collagen renewal.

Improvements generally occur gradually rather than immediately.

Choosing a microneedling treatment in Melbourne

The best treatment is the one matched to your skin, rather than the one most heavily promoted.

Collins Cosmetic Clinic is a doctor-led clinic on Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD. Our team includes experienced nurses and university-trained Dermal Clinicians who assess each patient before recommending treatment.

We use scientifically supported devices and develop personalised treatment plans based on each patient’s skin, concerns and expected outcome.