Fraxel Dual vs. Microneedling: Which Treatment Is Right for You?


November 21, 2023

By Matthew Pruitt

At Skin Bar NYC, we’ve been performing Fraxel Dual treatments in our Manhattan clinic for over a decade, with an impressive track record of over 10,000 safe and effective treatments. We’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of New Yorkers achieve their skin care goals, whether it’s reducing fine lines and wrinkles or eliminating acne scarring. Today, we want to shed light on the differences between Fraxel Dual and another popular cosmetic treatment known as microneedling.

Fraxel Dual vs. Microneedling: Not the Same

While Fraxel Dual and microneedling may seem similar because they both create tiny channels of wounds, they operate differently and yield different results.

Fraxel Dual: Harnessing Thermal Energy for Optimal Results

Fraxel Dual utilizes thermal energy, or laser energy, to create precise, tiny wounds that are surrounded by healthy tissue. This controlled thermal injury prompts an immediate response from your body, leading to swelling and redness – typical signs of the body’s natural reaction to trauma. These effects usually only last for 2-3 days.

However, the heat generated by Fraxel Dual not only promotes healing but also stimulates collagen production, a vital component for youthful and radiant skin. And this  collagen production continues working for several months after the treatment was performed.

Microneedling: Surgical Precision Without Heat

Microneedling, on the other hand, employs tiny surgical steel filaments to create small puncture-like wounds without the use of heat. The depth of these wounds can be adjusted by your skin care expert based on your specific needs. Unlike Fraxel Dual, microneedling does not involve heat, resulting in less swelling and shorter recovery times- typically 1-2 days.

Our experience has shown that the added thermal energy released with the Fraxel Dual results in overall better outcomes, particularly for pigment and sun damage. Additionally, we have found microneedling on its own doesn’t deliver a remarkable results. However, when combined with growth factors and cytokines derived from adult bone marrow stem cells, microneedling becomes a star performer. And when we combine Fraxel Dual with Microneedling the results are truly remarkable.

The Power of Combination: Fraxel Dual and Microneedling with Growth Factors

While microneedling alone may not be as effective as Fraxel Dual in achieving desired anti-aging, skin resurfacing, and scar removal results, we’ve discovered an exciting approach at Skin Bar NYC. Combining microneedling with growth factors, cytokines, and stem cells can significantly enhance the outcomes of microneedling.

Our preferred method involves alternating Fraxel Dual and microneedling with growth serums. By delivering varying types of stimulation to the skin in this manner, we effectively trick the body into optimizing its response. The results are akin to switching up your exercise routine at the gym, producing the best outcomes. Typically, we recommend a series of treatments, including three Fraxel Dual sessions and three microneedling treatments with growth serums.

The Youth Bundle: A Complete Approach to Skin Care

At Skin Bar NYC, we’ve packaged this process into what we call our “Youth Bundle.” This bundle is ideal for clients seeking either microneedling or Fraxel Dual treatments, allowing us to deliver a tailored series of treatments. We suggest intervals of 3-4 weeks between sessions to ensure that the skin has ample time to recover and benefit from the cumulative effects.

Recovery and Aftercare

For both Fraxel Dual and microneedling, it’s essential to prioritize aftercare and sun protection. After Fraxel Dual, expect redness, swelling, and warmth, particularly if you’re targeting fine lines and wrinkles, or acne scars. Expect the area to feel hot for 8-12 hours post treatment, and social downtime for 3-5 days. You should stay out of the sun for at least weeks and wear sunscreen everyday. It’s best to use gentle products for at least a week after your treatment.

Microneedling is milder, and you might experience a light sunburn or windburn sensation for a few hours after the treatment. Expect some redness for about a day and 1-2 days of social downtime. Protect your skin from sunexposure for a couple of days and use sunscreen. At Skin Bar NYC you will be sent home with a skincare routine to speed up recovery and deliver more gorwth factors and cytokines. This is a one week post treatment routine.

Last Thoughts

Whether you’re opting for Fraxel Dual, microneedling, or a combination of both, achieving your desired skin care goals takes time and commitment. Skin resurfacing and rejuvenation typically require 3 to 6 months of consistent treatments, depending on your skin’s condition and your goals. At Skin Bar NYC, we’re here to guide you on your journey to healthier, more radiant skin, so you can confidently choose the treatment that suits your preferences and skin care needs.

Remember, your skin is unique, and what works best for one person may not be ideal for another. If you have any concerns or doubts about laser treatments, microneedling can be an excellent starting point. Your skin care journey should be a personal one, tailored to your individual needs and preferences. We’re here to help you make the best choice for your skin.

If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Skin Bar NYC. We’re here to help you achieve your skin care goals with safe and effective treatments.


Matthew Pruitt

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