Microneedling vs Laser Resurfacing: Which Delivers Better Results?

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At Dr Alluris Aesthetics, one of the most common questions we hear from patients exploring skin rejuvenation is: “Should I choose microneedling or laser resurfacing?” Both treatments are scientifically backed and effective when used appropriately, but they work in different ways and suit different skin types, concerns, and lifestyles.

This guide will walk you through the key differences so you can feel informed and empowered in choosing the treatment that’s right for your skin.

Understanding the Technology

Microneedling, especially with modern devices like the Dermapen, involves the use of tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These stimulate your body’s natural wound healing response, encouraging new collagen and elastin. At our clinic, we’re preparing to launch Dermapen treatments with the option of enhancing results through regenerative boosters like **polynucleotides**, PRP and exosomes.

Laser resurfacing, by contrast, uses light energy. There are two main types:

• Ablative lasers, such as CO₂ or Er:YAG, remove the top layer of skin to trigger a more aggressive renewal.
• Non-ablative lasers, such as Fraxel, heat the deeper layers without breaking the skin’s surface, encouraging collagen growth more gently.

While both treatments aim to improve tone, texture, and scarring, the depth, intensity, and healing profiles differ significantly.

What Can Each Treat?

Microneedling is particularly well suited for:

• Early fine lines and wrinkles
• Enlarged pores and rough skin texture
• Superficial acne scarring
• Mild pigmentation and tone irregularities
• Hair thinning, especially when combined with regenerative serums

Laser resurfacing, especially in its ablative form, may be better for:

• More advanced wrinkles and sun damage
• Deep acne scarring or pitted scars
• More prominent pigmentation changes (like melasma or sunspots)
• Skin laxity in selected cases

In short, both have wide applications, but microneedling often offers a gentler, more flexible path—especially when biological agents are added.

Downtime and Recovery

Downtime is often the deciding factor for patients.

With microneedling, most people experience mild redness and sensitivity for 1 to 3 days. There may be slight flaking, and makeup can usually be applied after 24 hours. This makes it a practical option for those with busy lives.

Non-ablative lasers cause a bit more redness and swelling—often lasting several days—but still fall within the range of a “social downtime” recovery.

Ablative laser resurfacing, however, involves a more intense healing process. Expect noticeable redness, crusting, and peeling for at least one to two weeks. This type of laser essentially creates a wound that must heal from the deeper layers up.

To offer a reference point, deep chemical peels like phenol peels can require similar or even longer recovery periods than ablative lasers—often more than two weeks, with more intensive wound care.

When Will I See Results—and How Long Do They Last?

With microneedling, results typically begin to appear after four to six weeks, as new collagen forms. The skin continues improving over the following months. Most patients benefit from a series of sessions—usually three to six—to achieve optimal results, especially for scarring or textural concerns.

Laser resurfacing, particularly ablative treatments, can deliver more dramatic changes in a single session, though results can take weeks to fully develop as the skin remodels itself. Non-ablative lasers offer gradual improvement, often requiring multiple sessions as well.

In both cases, the longevity of results depends on skin care, sun protection, and lifestyle. Maintenance sessions—once or twice a year—are common with either approach.

Side Effects and Skin Tone Safety

This is a crucial area where the two treatments diverge.

Microneedling is considered safe for all skin types, including deeper skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), because it doesn’t involve heat or light. The risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is low when performed correctly.

Laser resurfacing, however, carries a higher risk of pigmentation issues—particularly in darker skin tones. Ablative lasers in particular can trigger unwanted lightening or darkening. That’s why careful assessment and experienced practitioners are essential if lasers are considered.

At Dr Alluris Aesthetics, we always prioritise patient safety and take great care to assess individual skin needs before recommending any treatment path.

Cost Considerations

From a financial perspective, microneedling is generally more affordable per session compared to laser resurfacing. Treatments with the Dermapen tend to range from around £250 to £500 depending on complexity and whether they’re combined with regenerative boosters like PRP or exosomes.

Non-ablative lasers can cost between £300 to £800 per session, while ablative lasers are a much larger investment—often starting at £800 and reaching well beyond £2,000 depending on the provider and area treated.

That said, the number of sessions required and the extent of results must be factored in. Microneedling can often achieve excellent results with multiple sessions at a lower total cost—and minimal disruption to daily life.

Why We Focus on Microneedling

As a doctor trained in surgery and with a particular interest in regenerative medicine, I’ve always been drawn to techniques that stimulate the body’s own healing capacity, with as little collateral damage as possible.

Microneedling allows us to do exactly that. With precision control, minimal downtime, and the ability to pair with advanced biologics like platelet-rich plasma or exosomes, it offers a sophisticated, evidence-based pathway to healthier skin—safely and sustainably.

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In choosing between microneedling and laser resurfacing, it’s not about which treatment is “better” universally—it’s about which is better for you.

If you’re looking for progressive, natural-looking improvement with low downtime, microneedling may be ideal—especially when overseen by a medical professional with a regenerative focus. If you’re after more dramatic correction in fewer sessions, and your skin tone and recovery time allow, lasers could be the right choice.

Our role is to help you navigate these choices, armed with the facts and supported by care.

What’s Next?

In our next article, we’ll take a closer look at home microneedling devices—how they compare to professional treatments, what’s safe, what’s not, and why expert technique matters more than ever in achieving results without compromising skin health.

→ Missed our last piece? Read about microneedling benefits and what’s coming to Dr Alluris Aesthetics.

→ Want to be the first to know when PRP & exosome microneedling launches? Join our mailing list at the top of our homepage.

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