Is Plasma Fibroblasting Better Than Microneedling? A Complete Comparison Guide

Key Takeaways

• Plasma fibroblasting offers superior skin tightening benefits.
• Microneedling is effective for improving skin texture and reducing fine lines.
• Both treatments have distinct recovery times and procedures.
• Cost considerations may vary significantly between the two options.
• Understanding your skin type is crucial for choosing the right treatment.
• Combining both treatments can enhance overall results when done correctly.

Understanding the Difference Between Plasma Fibroblasting and Microneedling

In the realm of non-invasive skin treatments, plasma fibroblasting and microneedling stand out for their unique approaches to skin tightening and rejuvenation. Each method utilises distinct techniques that cater to various skin concerns and desired outcomes. 

How Plasma Fibroblast Works on the Skin Surface

Plasma fibroblast works by using a plasma pen treatment that emits controlled plasma energy to create precise micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. This process triggers the body’s natural healing response, boosting the production of collagen and elastin for firmer, smoother skin.

This plasma pen therapy is particularly effective for treating delicate areas like the eyes and mouth where fine lines and wrinkles often appear first. The tightening results can be both immediate and progressive, with long-lasting results that may extend for three to five years depending on individual skin maintenance.

How Microneedling Creates Controlled Micro-Injury for Skin Renewal

Microneedling treatment uses ultra-fine needles to create controlled punctures in the skin, encouraging regeneration through increased production of collagen and elastin fibers. This technique helps refine skin texture and improve tone, supporting natural rejuvenation over time.

By stimulating the skin’s repair process, microneedling may reduce the visibility of scars, enlarged pores, and surface irregularities. Patients typically notice improvements after a few weeks, with continued gains and smoother skin lasting several months to a year.

What Each Treatment Targets and When It’s Used

Plasma fibroblast focuses on tightening loose skin, lifting eyelids, and smoothing fine lines or wrinkles, with results that continue to improve as collagen remodels over time. When considering the duration of plasma fibroblast, it’s important to note that improvements develop gradually rather than instantly. 

Microneedling treats uneven skin texture, acne scars, and enlarged pores. Both enhance collagen for smoother, firmer skin across targeted facial and body areas.

Texture Concerns, Fine Lines, and Mild Laxity

Both plasma fibroblast therapy and microneedling improve skin texture and firmness but vary in depth and intensity. The best option depends on the level of skin laxity, wrinkle depth, and desired recovery time.

Plasma Fibroblast Therapy:

• Provides an immediate lifting and tightening effect for moderate skin laxity.
• Reduces deep wrinkles and fine lines while improving firmness.
• Ideal for targeted areas like eyelids and around the mouth needing precision.

Microneedling:

• Treats texture concerns, acne scars, and minor fine lines effectively.
• Stimulates collagen production through controlled micro-injuries.
• Best for mild to moderate rejuvenation with minimal downtime.

When Plasma Fibroblast May Be Preferred vs When Microneedling Is Enough

Both treatments enhance skin rejuvenation but cater to different levels of ageing and skin needs. The choice depends on the degree of skin laxity, wrinkle depth, and treatment goals.

Plasma Fibroblast Therapy:

• Preferred for moderate to advanced ageing, deeper wrinkles, and sagging.
• Provides immediate lifting and tightening in targeted areas.
• Ideal for precise correction around delicate zones like the eyes and mouth.

Microneedling:

• Suitable for mild texture issues, fine lines, and early signs of ageing.
• Improves skin tone, acne scars, and elasticity with minimal downtime.
• A more cost-effective option for maintaining overall skin health.

Comparing Results: Plasma Fibroblasting vs Microneedling

Plasma fibroblasting delivers faster, more visible tightening and lifting effects, especially for sagging or aging skin. Microneedling focuses on refining texture, reducing acne scars, and improving overall tone over multiple sessions. 

Both treatments boost collagen, but plasma offers deeper rejuvenation while microneedling provides gradual, smoother skin renewal.

Tightening vs Texture Improvements: What Each Does Best

Both plasma fibroblasting and microneedling enhance skin rejuvenation but differ in their core strengths. Plasma fibroblast excels at tightening and lifting, while microneedling is better for refining texture and tone.

Here’s how the two treatments compare in results and treatment needs:

• Primary focus: Plasma fibroblasting is designed to tighten and lift loose skin, while microneedling focuses on improving texture and smoothing fine lines.
• Visible results: Plasma fibroblasting often delivers noticeable results after a single session, whereas microneedling produces gradual improvements over several treatments.
• Ideal for: Plasma fibroblasting is best suited to sagging skin, wrinkles, and drooping areas, while microneedling is more effective for acne scars, rough texture, and enlarged pores.
• Treatment frequency: Plasma fibroblasting is usually performed in one session with follow-up if needed, while microneedling typically requires three to six sessions for optimal results.
• Outcome: Plasma fibroblasting results in firmer, lifted skin with improved elasticity, whereas microneedling leads to smoother, more even-toned, and rejuvenated skin.

When Results Appear and How Long They May Last

The timing and duration of visible improvements differ between plasma fibroblast and microneedling, depending on individual skin condition, treatment depth, and aftercare. These timelines reflect typical outcomes observed by experts at the Institute of Medical Physics during patient follow-ups.

Plasma Fibroblast Therapy:

• Visible results start developing within 4–12 weeks post-procedure.
• Outcomes can go beyond one year with consistent aftercare.
• Ideal for those seeking long-term tightening and lifting effects.

Microneedling:

• Noticeable improvements appear after 3–4 weeks as skin renewal begins.
• Results typically last 3–5 months, requiring maintenance sessions.
• Recommended 2–3 times per year to preserve smoother, refined skin texture.

Downtime and Recovery Differences Between Both Treatments

When considering microneedling and plasma fibroblasting, understanding the downtime and recovery differences is crucial. Each treatment affects the skin in unique ways, influencing your recovery time and the overall healing process.

Typical Recovery After Microneedling (Redness and Sensitivity)

Microneedling recovery is relatively short, with most people resuming normal activities soon after. Mild redness and tenderness are common during this brief downtime period.

Here’s what to expect after the procedure:

• Mild redness or sensitivity typically lasts 24–48 hours.
• Slight swelling may occur but subsides quickly as the skin begins healing.
• The microneedling downtime is minimal, allowing you to return to daily tasks the next day.
• Skin feels tighter and may appear flushed, a normal part of the healing phase.
• Following post-treatment care helps speed up recovery and ensures smoother results.

Typical Recovery After Plasma Fibroblast (Scabbing and Healing Stages)

Visible improvements from plasma fibroblast therapy occur gradually as the skin undergoes collagen and elastin regeneration. Clinical studies confirm that results continue to enhance over several weeks following treatment.

Here’s what medical research shows about when results appear:

• Improvements are measurable by 4 weeks after treatment, showing early collagen remodeling and increased elasticity.
• Significant tightening and wrinkle reduction appear by 12 weeks.
• Collagen renewal continues beyond 12 weeks, further refining firmness and tone.
• Consistent aftercare, including sun protection and hydration, helps sustain results for extended periods.

Safety and Suitability for Different Skin Types

Safety and suitability vary when comparing microneedling and plasma fibroblast treatments. Both offer skin rejuvenation benefits but differ in how they interact with various skin tones and sensitivities. 

Knowing which option aligns best with your skin type helps reduce risks like irritation or pigmentation issues while maximising treatment effectiveness.

Considerations for Sensitive Skin and Darker Skin Tones

Microneedling and plasma fibroblast treatments each carry unique safety factors depending on skin tone and sensitivity. During a typical session of fibroblast, controlled plasma energy is applied to create precise micro-injuries, which requires careful adjustment for darker or more reactive skin.

Here’s what clinical evidence and treatment data show:

• Clinically proven safe for all skin types, including darker tones (FDA-approved).
• Low likelihood of hyperpigmentation when performed correctly.
• Works well for sensitive or thin skin due to minimal surface disruption.

Plasma Fibroblasting

• Best suited for lighter skin tones because darker tones have a higher pigmentation risk.
• May trigger hyperpigmentation without proper pre- and post-care.
• Requires an experienced practitioner for controlled plasma delivery and safe outcomes.

Key Risks: Pigmentation, Infection Risk, and Practitioner Technique

The Microneedling and plasma fibroblast procedures involve controlled skin injury to stimulate healing, but their safety depends greatly on hygiene, precision, and practitioner skill. Proper sterilisation and aftercare significantly reduce the chances of pigmentation or infection.

Plasma Fibroblasting

• Carries a higher risk of pigmentation, especially in darker skin tones.
• Infection may occur if the healing area or scabs are disturbed early.
• Requires expert technique to manage plasma energy safely and evenly.

Microneedling

• Low risk of pigmentation when performed with FDA-approved sterile devices.
• Infection can arise if equipment isn’t sanitised or aftercare is ignored.
• Practitioner precision ensures consistent needle depth and minimal trauma.

Cost Comparison: Plasma Fibroblasting vs Microneedling

Cost varies notably between plasma fibroblasting and microneedling, depending on session frequency, treatment area, and desired results. 

Plasma fibroblasting costs more per session but requires fewer treatments overall, while microneedling is more affordable upfront yet may need multiple sessions for visible improvement.

Typical Cost per Session and How Many Sessions Are Needed

Treatment pricing and session requirements vary between plasma fibroblasting and microneedling based on treatment area and expected results. While both deliver skin rejuvenation, their cost structures differ in duration and long-term value.

Plasma Fibroblasting

• Average cost ranges from £300 to £800 per session.
• Typically requires only one or two treatments for visible tightening.
• Offers longer-lasting results, reducing the need for frequent follow-ups.

Microneedling

• Costs between £150 and £600 per session, averaging around £300.
• Usually involves three to six sessions for optimal results.
• More cost-effective short-term but requires ongoing maintenance.

Note: Prices vary depending on clinic expertise, treatment area size, and aftercare quality.

Cost vs Value: What You’re Paying For (Downtime vs Outcomes)

Both plasma fibroblast and microneedling deliver strong rejuvenation results, but they differ in cost efficiency, treatment duration, and downtime. Evaluating what you gain from each helps clarify which offers the best long-term value for your skin goals.

Here’s a breakdown comparing their overall cost-to-result balance:

• Upfront cost: Plasma fibroblasting typically has a higher upfront cost, ranging from £300 to £800 per session, while microneedling is more affordable at around £150 to £600 per session.
• Number of sessions: Plasma fibroblasting usually requires one to two sessions for visible results, whereas microneedling generally needs three to six sessions for optimal outcomes.
• Downtime: Plasma fibroblasting involves moderate downtime of around 7 to 14 days, while microneedling has minimal downtime, typically 24 to 48 hours.
• Results timeline: Plasma fibroblasting produces noticeable tightening within approximately 4 to 12 weeks, while microneedling shows gradual improvements over about 3 to 4 weeks.
• Longevity of results: Results from plasma fibroblasting are longer lasting, often up to a year or more, whereas microneedling results are more temporary, usually lasting 3 to 5 months.
• Best for: Plasma fibroblasting is best suited for long-term skin tightening and lifting, while microneedling is ideal for texture refinement and collagen renewal.

Note: Actual outcomes depend on practitioner skill, aftercare adherence, and individual skin condition.

Can Plasma Fibroblasting and Microneedling Be Combined?

Combining plasma fibroblasting with microneedling can offer synergistic benefits, enhancing your overall skincare results. These combined treatments allow you to address multiple skin concerns effectively. A well-structured treatment plan will guide the scheduling of these procedures to maximise results.

Note: Combination treatments must always be discussed with a qualified medical practitioner to ensure proper sequencing, minimise risks, and tailor the plan safely to your specific skin type and condition.

Safe Sequencing: How Combination Plans Are Typically Spaced

When combining plasma fibroblast and microneedling treatments, timing plays a vital role in maintaining safety and effectiveness. Each procedure should be adequately spaced to allow proper healing and collagen remodeling before the next session.

Typically, practitioners recommend waiting several weeks between sessions to prevent overlapping recovery phases. This gap ensures the skin barrier restores fully, minimising irritation while maximising treatment outcomes for smoother, firmer skin.

When Combination Treatment May Be Considered (And When Not To)

Combination treatments can be beneficial  for clients addressing multiple concerns like texture, fine lines, and mild skin laxity. When performed safely, this approach enhances both surface renewal and deep collagen activation.

However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for combined therapies. Individuals with highly sensitive skin, delayed healing responses, or a tendency toward scarring should avoid dual treatments. A professional consultation is crucial to determine the safest and most effective approach for your skin type.

Before You Go

Plasma fibroblast therapy and microneedling have become two of the most trusted non-surgical methods for skin rejuvenation. 

Whether your goal is to lift sagging skin, refine texture, or minimise fine lines, both treatments can offer impressive, natural-looking improvements when performed by experienced professionals. 

Choosing the right procedure, or a strategic combination, depends on your individual skin goals, recovery preferences, and professional guidance.

About the Institute of Medical Physics

The Institute of Medical Physics (IMP) is a leading centre for evidence-based aesthetic medicine and dermatological innovation. Our specialists combine medical precision with advanced technology to deliver safe and scientifically validated treatments.

From plasma fibroblast skin tightening and microneedling to fractional laser rejuvenation and radiofrequency-based therapies, every treatment at IMP is designed to enhance long-term skin health while maintaining natural results.

Book a consultation with Dr. Emanuel Paleco and his expert team at the Institute of Medical Physics to receive a tailored treatment plan that prioritises safety, science, and lasting confidence.