At Northville Beauty Spa in Northville, MI, we offer both traditional SkinPen microneedling and advanced EXION RF Microneedling. Each stimulates collagen. Each improves texture.
The difference lies in depth, technology, and the level of correction you need.
This guide breaks it down clearly so you can make a confident decision.
Understanding Microneedling
Collagen is the framework of the skin. It provides firmness, elasticity, and resilience. Over time, collagen production slows. Acne, sun damage, and aging disrupt the organized structure of collagen fibers.
Microneedling works by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These microchannels signal the body to initiate repair.
That repair process stimulates:
• Fibroblast activation
• Collagen production
• Elastin formation
• Improved cellular turnover
Both SkinPen and EXION RF Microneedling rely on this principle. The difference is how deeply and aggressively they stimulate that remodeling.
What Is SkinPen Microneedling?
SkinPen is a medical-grade microneedling device that uses fine, sterile needles to create uniform microchannels in the skin.
It does not use heat. It does not remove layers of skin. It relies purely on mechanical stimulation to activate collagen production.
At Northville Beauty Spa, SkinPen microneedling is commonly used for:
• Mild to moderate acne scarring
• Fine lines
• Enlarged pores
• Uneven texture
• Dull skin tone
You can learn more on our Microneedling in Northville, MI page.
How SkinPen Works
The device glides across the skin, creating thousands of precise microchannels. These channels close quickly, but the biological signaling continues for weeks.
Collagen remodeling unfolds gradually over:
• 2 to 4 weeks for early improvement
• 3 months for visible refinement
• Ongoing improvement with a series
Most treatment plans include 3 to 6 sessions spaced about four weeks apart.
What Is EXION RF Microneedling?
EXION takes traditional microneedling further by adding radiofrequency energy delivered directly into the dermis.
This dual technology combines:
• Mechanical collagen stimulation from microneedles
• Controlled heat delivery from radiofrequency
The heat enhances collagen contraction and accelerates remodeling at deeper levels.
At Northville Beauty Spa, EXION RF Microneedling is commonly recommended for:
• Moderate skin laxity
• Deeper acne scarring
• Crepey texture
• Jawline softening
• Early sagging
Learn more about EXION RF Microneedling in Northville, MI.
Microneedling Showdown: SkinPen vs EXION RF Microneedling
Depth of Treatment
- SkinPen stimulates collagen through controlled injury alone.
- EXION stimulates collagen through injury plus heat, allowing deeper dermal remodeling.
- If your primary goal is glow and texture refinement, SkinPen may be sufficient.
- If your goal includes tightening and structural lifting, EXION offers stronger correction.
Treatment Sensation
Both treatments use topical numbing.
SkinPen feels like vibration and light pressure.
EXION adds warmth beneath the skin due to radiofrequency energy. Most clients describe it as tolerable and controlled.
Downtime Comparison
SkinPen:
• Redness for 24 to 48 hours
• Light dryness
• Makeup typically after 24 hours
EXION RF:
• Redness for 1 to 3 days
• Mild swelling
• Slight tightness
• Makeup typically after 24 to 48 hours
Neither requires extended downtime. EXION may have slightly longer visible redness due to deeper stimulation.
Number of Sessions
SkinPen often requires:
• 3 to 6 sessions
EXION often requires:
• 3 to 4 sessions
Because of the added radiofrequency energy, EXION may achieve comparable structural changes in fewer treatments.
Clinical Benefits Explained
Texture Improvement
• Roughness
• Pore appearance
• Surface irregularities
- SkinPen works beautifully for superficial refinement.
- EXION improves texture and deeper irregularities.
Acne Scar Correction
Acne scars form when collagen fibers heal in a disorganized way.
SkinPen stimulates new collagen around scars.
EXION stimulates collagen and contracts tissue through heat.
- For shallow scars, SkinPen performs well.
- For rolling or deeper scars, EXION typically provides more noticeable improvement.
Skin Tightening
SkinPen stimulates collagen gradually.
EXION stimulates collagen and immediate collagen contraction due to thermal energy.
If tightening is a primary goal, EXION is generally preferred.
Candidacy: Who Is a Good Candidate?
Ideal SkinPen Candidates
• Early signs of aging
• Mild acne scarring
• Large pores
• Dull tone
• Younger patients starting preventative care
Ideal EXION RF Candidates
• Moderate laxity
• Jawline softening
• Deeper acne scars
• Crepey under-eye or neck texture
• Clients wanting tightening without surgery
Treatment Process: What to Expect
Before Treatment
• Avoid retinoids for several days
• No sunburn or active irritation
• Hydrate well
During Treatment
Numbing cream is applied.
The device is adjusted based on:
• Treatment area
• Skin thickness
• Concern severity
Sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes depending on the area.
Recovery and Downtime
Immediately after treatment:
• Skin appears flushed
• Feels warm
• Slight tightness
Within 72 hours:
• Redness fades
• Skin may feel dry
Within one week:
• Early smoothness visible
For EXION, deeper tightening continues developing for months.
Realistic Expectations
Expect:
• Gradual improvement
• Collagen building over 3 to 6 months
• Natural looking refinement
Safety and Risk Considerations
Both treatments are safe when performed by trained providers.
Possible temporary effects:
• Redness
• Mild swelling
• Dryness
• Temporary sensitivity
Rare but possible risks:
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Infection if aftercare is ignored
Can SkinPen and EXION Be Combined?
Yes.
This layered strategy allows:
• Initial tightening and remodeling
• Ongoing collagen support
• Long-term skin quality improvement
Microneedling vs Laser Treatments
Some patients compare microneedling to CO2 laser resurfacing. Laser treatments remove or resurface skin layers.
Microneedling preserves the skin barrier and stimulates remodeling from within.
If you are deciding between these approaches, our blog on CO2 laser vs microneedling offers additional clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does microneedling hurt?
With numbing cream, most clients tolerate it very well.
How long do results last?
Results can last a year or longer depending on skincare and maintenance.
When can I wear makeup?
Typically 24 to 48 hours after treatment once cleared by your provider.
Which treatment is better for tightening?
EXION RF Microneedling generally provides stronger tightening.
Which is better for maintenance?
SkinPen is excellent for ongoing collagen support.
How many sessions do I need?
Most clients require 3 to 6 sessions depending on goals.
Which Treatment Is Right For You?
The answer depends on your goals.
Choose SkinPen if you want:
• Gentle collagen stimulation
• Minimal downtime
• Surface refinement
Choose EXION RF Microneedling if you want:
• Tightening
• Deeper scar correction
• Structural improvement
Both are available at Northville Beauty Spa in Northville, MI, and both are performed by experienced providers who prioritize natural outcomes.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are considering microneedling in Northville, the most important step is a personalized consultation.
We assess your skin, explain realistic outcomes, and build a treatment plan that fits your goals and timeline.
You can schedule directly here.
We are here to guide you through it with clarity and clinical confidence.
