Plasma Pen vs. Microneedling: Which Is Better?
Cosmetic procedures are on the rise: More than 19.1 million nonsurgical procedures were performed worldwide in 2023. And with more cosmetic treatment options than ever, clients have the power of choice for aesthetic upkeep and self-care. So which treatments do they prefer?
Facial and skin treatments are among the most popular. This article reviews two skin treatment options, plasma pens vs. microneedling, to help you decide which to offer to clients.
What You Need to Know About Microneedling
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance skin appearance and texture. It’s most commonly performed on the face, though it can also be applied to other parts of the body, like the neck, scalp, or chest.
During the procedure, tiny, sterile needles repeatedly puncture the skin. In response to these micro-injuries, the body triggers its natural healing process to produce collagen and elastin. These proteins contribute to firm, smooth skin. The procedure also creates tiny channels that allow topical skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin.
The basic principles of microneedling have been used for over a century. Modern tools and applications have been around since the 1990s.
Conditions Treated by Microneedling
The benefits of microneedling can improve a variety of skin conditions. It may be used to treat:
- Fine lines or wrinkles
- Stretch marks
- Loose skin
- Scars from acne, surgery, or other causes
- Enlarged pores or skin depressions
It may also be used in conjunction with topical treatments for specific conditions, such as hair loss.
Side Effects from Microneedling
Microneedling is minimally invasive and generally safe for most clients—though those with blood disorders, frequent skin rashes, or those receiving cancer treatment may need more specific guidance from their doctors.
Minor side effects from the procedure might occur, including temporary bruising, redness, and swelling. It also leaves the skin more sensitive to sunlight for a short time after treatment. With proper recovery techniques, clients should see side effects subside within a few days.
What You Need to Know About Plasma Pens
Plasma pens are tools used in plasma fibroblast therapy, a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that tightens and rejuvenates skin. Like microneedling, it is most commonly used on the face to enhance appearance and overall skin health.
The device works by ionizing gases to create a small arc of plasma energy. This pen is held just above the skin’s surface—without directly touching it. Plasma arcs are used to cause micro-injuries that trigger the body’s natural healing process. In addition to stimulating collagen and elastin production, plasma causes the skin to contract. Does a plasma pen really tighten skin? Yes, the contraction caused by plasma creates a tightening and lifting effect.
Though plasma fibroblast technology has been around for a few decades, it has gained wider popularity only in the past several years. In 2022, Plasma IQ became the first FDA-approved Class II handheld device setting the gold standard for safety and efficacy.
Conditions Treated by Plasma Pens
Plasma pens are used to treat many of the same conditions microneedling treats, such as fine lines, sagging skin, and scarring. They can also be used to treat:
- Dropping eyelids
- Wrinkles in more sensitive areas, such as crow’s feet
- Skin tags and other lesions
Many clients opt for plasma treatments to get a general improved skin texture and lifting, even if they aren’t targeting specific conditions.
Side Effects from Plasma Pen Treatment
Fibroblasting with a plasma pen is considered minimally invasive and safe for most clients. The use of plasma may cause minor irritation for a short period after treatment. Side effects may include:
- Swelling and redness
- Mild stinging or itching
- Tightness in the skin
- Dryness in the skin
For most clients, the most noticeable side effect of plasma pen treatment is carbon crusts. These tiny brown dots are micro scabs, one of the disadvantages of a plasma pen. They usually flake off in a couple days, but can cause further itching or scarring if scratched at.
Which Is Better: Plasma Skin Pen or Microneedling?
Both plasma and microneedling treatments target collagen production in the skin for improved texture and youthfulness. But which is better? It depends on the client’s preference and comfort level.
Microneedling is a more established treatment type, but it comes with a higher device cost and more expensive consumables. It only takes a few days to recover from and effects are noticeable more quickly, though they are generally shorter-term.
Plasma treatments offer a more cost-efficient option. The Plasma IQ device is priced significantly lower than many microneedling systems, and consumables are also more affordable. Plasma is also typically better for more sensitive areas and is safe even with skin tags or benign lesions. Recovery times may be slightly longer, and treatment sessions can take more time because of the precision of the electrode tip, but the tradeoff is longer-lasting effects and a broader range of applications.
When performed by trained professionals, both treatment types are non-invasive ways to maintain skin health and improve appearance.
Find Your Dermatology Products with MedShift
Plasma pen treatments and microneedling are two great skin care techniques. No matter which skin treatment options you want to provide clients, MedShift offers top-quality products that support your business. Explore our:
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