The battle of the beauty procedures continues with IPL photofacial versus microneedling: two of the most sought-after cosmetic treatments. Which is better? The answer may surprise you.
Each cosmetic procedure is designed to treat a specific concern(s). While some procedures are developed to target multiple concerns, others may target only one very specific issue. However, in the on-going beauty battle that is IPL photofacial or Lumecca® by InMode® vs. microneedling, both high-end procedures target some of the same skin concerns affecting millions of men and women. It’s important to keep in mind there are major differences between the two, and it all depends on what YOUR specific skin goals are that will help you to decide which treatment is best for you. Maybe both, maybe neither. Let’s take a deep dive and shed some light on the latest cosmetic conundrum.
First, let’s recap what each procedure is, what it does, and how it works.
What is an IPL Photofacial or Lumecca by InMode?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) harnesses the power of innovative light therapy to target areas of hyperpigmentation/discoloration, sunspots, age spots, and sun damage (photoaging) on the face, neck, chest, back, arms, or legs. IPL is more of a “tone” corrector, going deep-down to the underlying depths of the dermis to “break-up” melanin production that has yet to reveal itself in the form of freckles, dark patches, or melasma. IPL photofacials don’t necessarily reduce wrinkles, tighten lax skin/boost elasticity, or smooth texture. The groundbreaking device is all about correcting discoloration and delivering a super brightening boost to darkened areas of the face and body.
Initially, most patients require 2-3 sessions scheduled 4-6 weeks apart to enjoy visibly remarkable results. Results typically last 6 months to a year with maintenance treatments every 6-12 months to retain desired brightening effects.
The following is a breakdown of the beauty benefits offered by an IPL photofacial or Lumecca:
- Visibly reduces hyperpigmentation/discoloration, sunspots, age spots, rosacea, flare-ups, broken capillaries, spider/varicose veins, and melasma, as well as brightening undereye dark circles
- Boots lackluster skin to a more brightened, even-toned quality overall
- Wavelength intensity reverses hyperpigmentation on a molecular level where topical treatments can’t reach
- Fast results
- Quick recovery/no downtime
What is Microneedling?
Without letting the name conjure up images of bloodshed, microneedling is a safe and virtually painless procedure that uses tiny, needles to gently puncture the skin’s epidermis to stimulate the body’s natural healing and rejuvenating collagen response. The promotion of collagen production will encourage rapid regeneration of the skin, resulting in a plump, dewy, youthful-looking glow, smooth texture, even tone, and a noticeable reduction in fine lines/wrinkles, acne scarring, and stretchmarks. A true multitasker, microneedling is the procedure of the moment and for good reason. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve desired results, as well as yearly upkeep sessions to retain revitalized effects.
The following is a breakdown of the beauty benefits a patient can expect from regularly scheduled microneedling treatments:
- Complexion-plumping collagen production
- Visible reduction in fine lines/wrinkles
- Smoother texture
- Diminishment of acne scarring and/or stretchmarks
- Boosts blood flow
- More even-toned skin/fades hyperpigmentation
- Allows for optimal absorption of topical treatments/skincare products
- Yearly upkeep required to maintain that plump, gorgeous glow (1-2 sessions a year)
The Verdict
The IPL photofacial or Lumecca from InMode is all about getting even with your skin’s discoloration – literally! Microneedling also helps brighten skin tone, but also offers a bevy of other skin-saving, anti-aging benefits. Some patients may just have hyperpigmentation issues they’d like to address, but no wrinkle or texture woes. In this case, IPL treatment may be just what the doctor ordered.
Other patients may be looking to reduce their unwanted wrinkles and acne scarring, while also improving texture and boosting collagen production. These patients will want to sign-up for microneedling treatments to address a multiple of skin issues. If you really want to step up your skincare game, consider microneedling with RF (radiofrequency) energy – DG Aesthetics uses Morpheus8 – or with PRP (platelet rich plasma). These next-level microneedling procedure ingeniously incorporate heat therapy or your own body’s growth factors (respectively) to deliver all the above PLUS tighten sagging skin and boost youthful elasticity for a lifted, luminous, line-free look.
So, here’s the beauty bottom line: If you’re looking to significantly reduce hyperpigmentation, then IPL photofacial treatments is your glow-getting go-to. However, if you’re looking to reduce discoloration, but ALSO wish to improve your skin’s texture, induce a “plumping” effect, or help dimmish scarring or stretchmarks, then microneedling should be at the top of your cosmetic wish list. It’s important to remember BOTH microneedling and IPL photofacials are amazing cosmetic procedures that produce highly effective, visible, long-lasting results for what they’re intended to do. You must have a clear sense of your beauty goals and what you wish to target/correct before committing to any cosmetic procedure. Our highly knowledgeable clinicians at DG Aesthetics can help get you on the right path that will yield the most beautiful, naturally looking results you’ll love.