microGLO vs. Microneedling: Which Is Right for You?

Summary

Think of microGLO (previously Aquagold) as your go-to for instant glow-up magic! It delivers custom serums through tiny hollow needles right into your skin's surface, giving you that coveted radiance and refined pores with barely any downtime. It’s perfect for when you need to look amazing for a special event or need a skincare pick-me-up.

Microneedling, on the other hand, is a long-term skin investment. It uses solid needles to create tiny controlled injuries that wake up your skin's natural collagen factory. This makes it fantastic for tackling acne scars and fine lines, giving you a smooth and improved texture over time.

The bottom line? Go with microGLO when you want to look incredible tomorrow; choose microneedling when you want to look incredible for years to come.

What's the Real Difference Between These Two?

Are you considering:	microGLO Microinfusion	Traditional Microneedling
How does it work?	Hollow needles deliver serums directly	Solid needles create micro-injuries that heal over time
How deep do the needles go?	Super shallow (0.25-0.6 mm)	Deeper (0.5-2.5 mm depending on what you need)
What's the main goal?	Instant glow and pore perfection	Building collagen and reducing scars
Can I customize it?	Yes! Custom serum cocktails just for you	Adjustable depth and technique
How much downtime?	Almost none (a few hours to 1 day max)	A bit more (1-3+ days)
Will it hurt?	Barely noticeable	Mild to moderate (but totally manageable!)
How often do I need it?	One treatment or monthly touch-ups	Series of 3-6 sessions, every 4-6 weeks
When will I see results?	Right away! Best results in 3-7 days	Gradual magic over 2-3 months
How long do results last?	4-8 weeks	Several months after your full series
Who's it perfect for?	Fine pores, dullness, minor texture issues	Acne scars, wrinkles, and major texture concerns

Which Treatment Should I Choose?

Should I go with microGLO?

Pick microGLO if you:

• Have a big event coming up and need to look flawless
• Want minimal downtime (who has time for that?)
• Have fine pores and mild texture issues
• Love the idea of custom serums made just for your skin
• Want that instant "glass skin" effect everyone's talking about   

Should I choose Microneedling?

Microneedling is your best bet if you:

• Want lasting improvements that build over time
• Have acne scarring or deeper texture concerns
• Can commit to a series of treatments (trust the process!)
• Don't mind a few days of downtime

• Want to boost your collagen production for long-term benefits

Can I Get Both Treatments?

Absolutely! Many people love combining both treatments in a staggered plan. Typically, this treatment plan would start with a microGLO surface perfection then move into a series of microneedling sessions to create deeper transformational effects. Just make sure to work with a qualified practitioner who can create the perfect timeline for your skin goals.

What Exactly is microGLO Microinfusion?

Imagine a tiny stamping device with 20 microscopic hollow needles (thinner than your hair!) that creates super shallow channels in your skin. These channels let custom serum cocktails, usually packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamins, peptides, and sometimes a touch of diluted neurotoxin, get delivered right where your skin needs them most.

The magic happens instantly: your skin gets smoother, more hydrated, and starts reflecting light beautifully, giving you that coveted "glass skin" look everyone wants.

What Exactly Is Microneedling?

Microneedling uses solid needles to create tiny, controlled injuries in your skin's deeper layers. This might sound scary, but it's actually brilliant! These micro-injuries trick your body into thinking it needs to heal, which kicks your natural collagen and elastin production into high gear.

Your skin goes through three healing phases: first inflammation (right away), then proliferation (over days to weeks), and finally remodeling (over months). The end result? Thicker, smoother, more resilient skin that looks years younger.

How Do These Treatments Actually Work?

microGLO's Magic

Those hollow channels create temporary pathways that let active ingredients penetrate way deeper than any cream ever could. The serum ingredients get to work immediately, hydrating, plumping, and smoothing your skin while those tiny channels heal up within hours.

Microneedling's Process

The controlled punctures of microneedling activate your skin's repair system, ramping up growth factor production and cellular turnover. Over weeks and months, brand new collagen forms and remodels your skin, creating real structural improvements in thickness and smoothness.

Am I a Good Candidate for These Treatments?

Perfect for microGLO:

• Normal to combination skin
• Mild texture issues that bug you
• Fine pores that need some love
• Pre-event skin prep needs
• Anyone wanting immediate results   

Perfect for Microneedling:

• Acne scarring (especially those indented scars)
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Sun damage and aging concerns
• Uneven skin texture
• Most skin types (your practitioner will adjust settings)   

Who Should Skip These Treatments?

Neither treatment is recommended if you have:

• Active skin infections or open wounds
• Uncontrolled inflammatory skin conditions (like active eczema)
• Recent isotretinoin use (check with your provider first)
• Known allergies to treatment ingredients
• Pregnancy (discuss with your provider)  

Extra considerations for microneedling:

• Active acne breakouts
• Tendency to form keloid scars
• Currently taking blood thinners (your provider needs to assess this) 

What's the Treatment Experience Like?

Getting Ready for Your Treatment:

1. Stay out of the sun and avoid irritating your skin

2. Stop using exfoliating products and retinoids as your provider directs

3. Tell them about all medications, especially blood thinners

4. Complete consent forms and take before photos
      

During Your microGLO Treatment:

1. Your skin gets thoroughly cleaned and assessed
2. Your custom serum is prepared just for you
3. The stamping technique is applied across your treatment areas
4. Immediate post-treatment skincare is applied

During Your Microneedling Session:

1. Thorough skin cleansing
2. Topical numbing cream applied (you'll wait 20-30 minutes)
3. Systematic needling in multiple passes
4. Optional add-ons like PRP or serums

5. Soothing post-treatment care

How Do I Take Care of My Skin After Treatment?

After microGLO:

• Expect some mild pinkness for a few hours
• Skip makeup and exercise for 12-24 hours
• Use gentle, hydrating products only
• Don't forget your broad-spectrum SPF every day

After Microneedling:

• Your skin will be red for 1-3+ days (totally normal!)
• Use only gentle, approved cleansers
• Avoid all active ingredients until your provider gives the okay
• Expect some light flaking as your skin regenerates
• Sun protection is absolutely essential

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

microGLO Timeline:

• Right away: Visible glow and smoothness
• Peak effect: Days 3-7 after treatment
• How long it lasts: 4-8 weeks depending on your serum cocktail

• Maintenance: Monthly sessions keep you looking amazing

Microneedling Timeline:

• First changes: 4-8 weeks after your first session
• Best results: After completing your 3-6 session series
• Peak improvement: 3-6 months after finishing your series
• Maintenance: 2-3 treatments per year   

What About Risks and Side Effects?

What You'll Likely Experience:

Most people experience temporary redness and sensitivity after either treatment, which is completely normal and expected. With microneedling, you might also notice mild swelling and some pinpoint bleeding during the procedure, this just means the treatment is working! Some temporary dryness is also common as your skin goes through its healing process.

Uncommon Issues:

While rare, some people might experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially if they don't follow sun protection guidelines. Infection is extremely uncommon when proper sterile technique is used, and allergic reactions to treatment ingredients can occur but are infrequent. Occasionally, someone might experience prolonged irritation, which is why choosing an experienced practitioner is so important.

How to Keep Risks Low:

The key to minimizing risks is choosing board-certified dermatologists or licensed practitioners with extensive experience in these treatments. Make sure they follow proper sterile techniques, and commit to following all aftercare instructions religiously. Most importantly, be diligent about sun protection; this single step prevents most complications and helps you get the best possible results.

Curious Which Treatment Fits You Best?

At Aesthetx, our board-certified specialists, PAs, NPs, and RNs blend artistry with advanced technique to deliver results that look like you, only fresher. We’ll map a personalized plan, microGLO, Microneedling, or both, or natural, balanced rejuvenation.

Book your consultation today at one of our offices in Menlo Park, Marin County, or Los Gatos.