If your aging skin is starting to look thinner, looser, or more wrinkled, collagen is likely to blame. Collagen is what gives the skin much of its structure and firmness.
Unfortunately, as you get older, your body makes less of it, which can have a serious effect on the appearance of the skin.
Thankfully there are many non-invasive treatments, including laser resurfacing and microneedling, that rev up the body’s collagen creating process.
Struggling to choose between laser resurfacing vs microneedling? Wondering which one builds more collagen?
Here’s what you need to know about these two powerful anti-aging treatments.
How Collagen Changes as You Age
Collagen is your skin’s support system. When you’re younger, the skin naturally produces high levels of it, but over time, production slows down.
Not only does your body make less of it, but the collagen that is created has a lower quality. This can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, loose skin, and loss of firmness.
Microneedling creates tiny injuries on the skin. As a result, your body revs up the healing process, which includes producing collagen and elastin.
At Vibrant Dermatology, we use the PiXel8-RF system, which offers the added benefits of radiofrequency (RF) energy. RF heats the underlying tissue to encourage additional collagen production.
Laser resurfacing uses laser energy to treat specific layers of the skin. Depending on the type of laser used, this treatment can address fine lines, sun damage, and uneven texture.
Laser Resurfacing vs. Microneedling: Which One Builds More Collagen?
There isn’t a clear-cut answer, as there are many factors to consider.
When it comes to laser resurfacing, different lasers work at different strengths and depths. Microneedling treatments vary too.
If you want both collagen production and skin tightening, RF microneedling might have a slight edge. The combination of technologies can address many common aging concerns at once, which is a big advantage.
The best way to learn which skin rejuvenating treatment is best for you is to schedule an appointment with one of the experienced providers at Vibrant Dermatology.
When Will I See the Benefits of Collagen Production?
Neither laser resurfacing or microneedling offer overnight results. The skin needs time to rebuild and remodel new collagen.
Some patients see results within a few weeks of treatments, though collagen-related improvements continue to develop over the course of several months.
The gradual process does require some patience, but it’s well worth the wait. Instead of just covering up the signs of aging, you’re encouraging your skin to improve from the inside out.
Tips for Maintaining Your Results
Getting treatment is only part of the process of turning back the hands of time. Taking care of your skin afterward can help make the improvements last longer.
You can nourish and protect your skin by:
- Wearing sunscreen daily (at least 30 SPF). Sun damage can break down collagen and worsen signs of aging.
- Using gentle skincare products. Harsh products can irritate your skin, causing it to become sensitive, red, and overly dry.
- Keeping the skin moisturized. Hydrated skin is happy skin. Use products that contain moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and amino acids.
We may also recommend specific products or follow-up treatments, like an Aqua Facial, to keep your skin looking its best.
You Don’t Have to Just Accept Hair Thinning and Loss
You don’t have to choose between laser resurfacing vs microneedling on your own. One of our skin professionals will examine your skin and discuss your goals before deciding which treatment will provide the best results.
Improving your skin shouldn’t be frustrating! Book your appointment online or call our office at 617-250-0257 to schedule today and meet with one of our dermatologists today.
Meet Your Dermatologist: Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, M.D., FAAD
Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip is a board-certified dermatologist, nationally recognized Castle Connolly Top Doctor, and the founder and CEO of Vibrant Dermatology & Aesthetics serving Dedham and Milton, Massachusetts. A Harvard-educated and Ivy League-trained clinician, Dr. Ip blends high-level medical precision with artistic aesthetic restoration, providing comprehensive dermatologic care for patients of all ages, ethnicities, and skin tones.
Academic Excellence & Clinical Leadership
- Undergraduate & Graduate Degrees: A.B. in Health Policy (cum laude) from Harvard University; MPhil in International Development (with distinction) from the University of Cambridge.
- Medical Training & Residency: M.D. from Cornell University Medical College; completed her dermatology residency at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, where she served as Chief Resident.
- National Media & Industry Authority: Featured medical journalist with expert contributions across 200+ publications—including Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, O Magazine, and InStyle—and appearances on national television.
Comprehensive Medical, Surgical & Cosmetic Dermatology
- Skin of Color & Complex Pigmentation: Recognized national authority in ethnic skin concerns, melasma, hyperpigmentation, keloids, and vitiligo.
- Advanced Rejuvenation & Non-Surgical Aesthetics: Expert injector specializing in subtle, balanced outcomes using Botox®, Jeuveau®, Juvéderm®, Restylane®, Radiesse®, and Sculptra® (“Liquid Lift”).
- Cutting-Edge Laser & Energy Modalities: Non-invasive skin remodeling with Sofwave™, RF microneedling, LaseMD, NeoSkin/NeoClear, and KeraFactor® PRP hair restoration therapies.
- Medical & Pediatric Dermatology: Targeted treatment for cystic acne, psoriasis, eczema, pediatric rashes, and early skin cancer detection.
