What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a device with fine, sterile needles to create thousands of tiny, controlled micro-injuries in the skin’s surface. These micro-channels prompt the body to produce more collagen and elastin, the two proteins responsible for keeping skin firm, smooth, and resilient.
As the skin heals, it becomes visibly smoother, more even, and more radiant over time. Microneedling is effective for a wide range of concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, acne and surgical scars, enlarged pores, rough or uneven texture, stretch marks, and mild to moderate skin laxity. It is suitable for most skin types and tones, with minimal risk of hyperpigmentation when performed by a skilled provider.
Traditional Microneedling: What to Expect
Traditional microneedling relies entirely on the mechanical action of the needling device to stimulate collagen and elastin production. No additional serums or biological agents are introduced. The treatment has been widely studied and consistently shown to improve skin quality over a series of sessions.
Most patients notice meaningful improvement after 3 to 6 treatments spaced several weeks apart. Results develop gradually as the skin continues to rebuild from within, which means patience is part of the process.
Traditional microneedling is a strong fit if you are dealing with mild to moderate texture concerns, early fine lines, or superficial scarring, and you are looking for a clinically proven treatment with a more accessible price point.
Microneedling with PRP: Taking It Further
PRP microneedling, sometimes called the vampire facial, combines the physical benefits of traditional microneedling with the regenerative power of growth factors from your own blood. A small blood sample is drawn, centrifuged to isolate platelet-rich plasma, and then applied directly to the skin during treatment, allowing it to be absorbed through newly formed microchannels.
The result is a treatment that works on two levels. The needling triggers collagen production while the PRP amplifies and accelerates the healing response, delivering concentrated growth factors exactly where the skin needs them most. Because PRP comes from your own blood, the risk of an allergic reaction or adverse effect is extremely low.
Microneedling PRP vs Traditional Microneedling: How Do They Compare?
Both treatments share the same foundation, but the differences in outcomes, recovery, and ideal use cases are worth understanding before you decide.
What Each Treats Best
Traditional microneedling is highly effective for mild-to-moderate concerns, including fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and superficial scarring. It is a trusted entry point for patients who want real improvement without a significant investment.
PRP microneedling is better suited for more advanced concerns, including deep acne or surgical scars, pronounced wrinkles, persistent hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone that has not responded well to standard treatments. The addition of platelet-rich plasma delivers a more concentrated healing response, which can produce more dramatic results for stubborn or complex skin issues.
Recovery and Downtime
Traditional microneedling typically involves redness and sensitivity for up to 3 to 5 days, depending on treatment depth and individual healing response.
PRP microneedling tends to have a faster, more comfortable recovery. The growth factors in PRP help reduce redness and swelling, speed up tissue repair, and get most patients back to their normal routine within 24 to 48 hours.
Results and Collagen Production
Both treatments stimulate collagen, but they do it differently. Traditional microneedling relies entirely on the body’s own repair mechanisms, producing gradual improvement over multiple sessions. PRP microneedling supercharges that process, with studies suggesting that adding plasma-derived growth factors can amplify collagen deposition and cellular turnover, often delivering more noticeable results in fewer treatments.
How Many Sessions Will You Need?
One of the most common questions patients have before starting microneedling is how many treatments it will take to see results. For traditional microneedling, most patients see meaningful improvement after 3 to 6 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, with those addressing mild concerns on the lower end and those targeting deeper scarring on the higher end. For PRP microneedling, the enhanced healing response means many patients see noticeable results in fewer sessions, with most providers recommending starting with 3 and adjusting from there.
In both cases, maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months help sustain and build on your results over time. Your provider at Haus of Aesthetics will give you a realistic recommendation at your consultation based on your skin and your specific goals.
What to Expect During and After Your Treatment
Knowing what the experience actually feels like can make the whole process much less intimidating. Here is a straightforward breakdown of what to expect.
During Your Session
Both treatments begin with a thorough cleansing of the skin. A topical numbing cream is typically applied beforehand to maximize comfort. The microneedling device is then moved across the treatment area in a controlled, methodical pattern. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild prickling or vibration rather than pain. A full facial treatment typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. For PRP microneedling, the blood draw and processing add a bit of extra time to your appointment.
After Your Treatment
Immediately after treatment, the skin will appear red and feel warm. This is completely normal, and these effects typically begin to subside within 24 to 48 hours.
- Avoid sun exposure and wear SPF diligently.
- Skip makeup for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid active skincare ingredients like retinol or acids for several days.
- Stay hydrated and keep the skin moisturized.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sweating for 24 to 48 hours.
Your provider at Haus of Aesthetics will provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your treatment and skin type. Following them closely makes a meaningful difference in how your results develop.
Which One Is Right for You?
The right choice depends on your skin concerns, your goals, and what you are willing to invest. Here is a simple way to think about it:
- Traditional microneedling is a great fit if you are dealing with mild to moderate concerns, are new to the treatment, or are looking for a more budget-friendly starting point.
- Microneedling with PRP is the better choice if you have deep scarring, more advanced signs of aging, or stubborn pigmentation that has not responded to other treatments, or if you want faster recovery and enhanced results.
It is also worth knowing that some patients start with traditional microneedling and add PRP later as their skin progresses, making it a flexible option that can evolve alongside your goals. Both treatments work best as part of a series, and your provider will recommend a plan based on your specific skin and goals.
If you are unsure which direction to go, a consultation is the best place to start. One of our experts can evaluate your skin in person and give you an honest recommendation rather than a one-size-fits-all answer.
What to Expect at Haus of Aesthetics
At Haus of Aesthetics, both traditional microneedling and PRP microneedling are performed by experienced aesthetic specialists who take the time to understand your skin and your goals before recommending a treatment plan.
Your first visit begins with a thorough consultation where we assess your skin, discuss your concerns, and walk you through your options clearly and honestly. Whether you are coming in for your first microneedling treatment or looking to step up to PRP, we will make sure you understand exactly what to expect and feel confident in your decision before we begin.
We make it easy to fit treatment into your schedule, and our welcoming environment is designed to make the experience as comfortable as possible from start to finish.
Ready to See What Microneedling Can Do for Your Skin?
Clearer, smoother, more radiant skin is possible, and it starts with the right plan. As a leading provider of microneedling in Salt Lake City, Haus of Aesthetics has helped patients address issues ranging from fine lines and acne scars to uneven skin texture and dull skin. Our team will walk you through your options, assess your skin in person, and develop a personalized approach tailored to your specific concerns and goals. Whether traditional microneedling or PRP microneedling is the better fit, you will leave your consultation knowing exactly what to expect and feeling confident in your next step.
You can reach our Salt Lake City location by calling (801) 997-8199 or texting (801) 823-6521, and our additional Provo location by calling (801) 852-0033 or texting (877) 341-6192. Schedule your microneedling consultation online today.
