Microneedling vs. Cosmetic Acupuncture: Which is Right for You?
Did you know that our skin reaches maturity around age 26? From that point forward, the collagen and elastin that keep our skin firm and plump begin to break down faster than our bodies can replenish them. This natural process leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of elasticity over time.
And if you’re like most of us, you’re probably considering ways to support your skin as it ages.
Two popular and effective treatments that naturally stimulate your body's own collagen and elastin production are microneedling and cosmetic acupuncture. While both can lead to a more radiant complexion, they are distinct services that work in different ways.
Let's break down these two powerful treatments to help you decide which one is right for you.
Microneedling: Transform Your Skin’s Texture and Tone
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that has become a go-to for skin rejuvenation in 2025. It uses the principles of Chinese medicine to kickstart your skin's natural healing response without the use of harsh acids that can damage your skin's protective barrier.
What is Microneedling?
This non-surgical treatment uses a specialized device with several very fine, short, stainless steel needles that create controlled micro-injuries on the surface of the skin. This gentle process signals your body to repair the skin by producing new collagen and elastin. The result is improved skin tone and texture, leaving you with a more radiant, youthful appearance. It can be performed on both the face and chest.
Who is Microneedling For and What Does it Treat?
Microneedling is ideal for anyone looking to address specific surface-level skin concerns. It is highly effective for transforming the skin by improving its overall tone and texture.
This treatment works wonders to:
Lighten and fade acne scars and other types of scars
Minimize sun damage and hyperpigmentation
Even out skin tone and address melasma
Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Shrink enlarged pores
Improve the appearance of stretch marks
How to Prepare for Your Microneedling Appointment
A little preparation can ensure you get the best results from your microneedling session.
Come with a clean face. Arrive at your appointment with clean skin, free of makeup or sunblock. If you need to moisturize, a simple, single-ingredient oil like jojoba oil is a great choice.
Pause certain products. Stop using Vitamin C serums, glycolic acid, and retinoids at least three days before your appointment. These active ingredients can increase skin sensitivity and lead to irritation.
Consider a hat. After your session, your skin will be extra sensitive to sunlight—wearing a hat is an easy way to protect your skin when you go outside following your treatment.
Post-Treatment Care
After your treatment, your skin will need some gentle care as it heals.
Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible for the first 24 hours.
After 24 hours, you can use a natural, mineral-based sunscreen, but continuing to wear a hat for protection is recommended.
Refrain from using active products like Vitamin C, glycolic acid, and retinoids for 3-5 days post-treatment to allow your skin to heal without irritation.
Number of Recommended Visits
For optimal results, a series of 6 treatments is typically recommended. Each session should be spaced 4-6 weeks apart to give your skin ample time to regenerate and build new collagen between appointments.
Cosmetic Acupuncture: Lift, Firm, and Brighten
Cosmetic acupuncture offers a different approach to skin rejuvenation. Instead of focusing only on the skin's surface, cosmetic acupuncture, also called facial rejuvenation, works at deeper levels to address the fascia and muscles, while also improving overall well-being by balancing hormones, reducing stress, and enhancing sleep and digestion.
What is Cosmetic Acupuncture?
Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, cosmetic acupuncture involves placing tiny, sterile needles into specific points on the face and body. This process stimulates qi and blood circulation, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the skin from the inside out. It activates fibroblasts—the cells responsible for collagen and elastin—and helps the skin retain moisture for a hydrated, glowing complexion. This isn't just a beauty treatment; it's a full-body wellness experience.
Who is Cosmetic Acupuncture For and What Does it Treat?
Cosmetic acupuncture is perfect for anyone seeking a holistic approach to skincare that also addresses underlying health imbalances. While it helps improve the appearance of scars, it truly excels at promoting a natural, lit-from-within glow by enhancing overall health.
This treatment helps to:
Soften fine lines and wrinkles
Lift sagging skin by improving facial muscle tone
Increase firmness in the face and neck
Reduce systemic inflammation, a key driver of aging
Minimize scars (though microneedling is generally more effective for reducing the appearance of scars due to its ability to break down scar tissue more effectively)
Improve circulation to reduce puffiness and acne
Enhance your skin’s natural glow and even out skin tone
Address underlying imbalances like stress, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, and hormonal imbalances
How to Prepare for Your Cosmetic Acupuncture Appointment
Preparation for cosmetic acupuncture is simple. Come to your appointment ready to relax. It's helpful to have eaten a light meal beforehand and to be well-hydrated. As with microneedling, arriving with a clean, makeup-free face is ideal.
Post-Treatment Care
One of the great advantages of cosmetic acupuncture is that there is virtually no downtime. You may experience some slight pinkness at the needle sites, but this typically subsides within a few hours. Many treatments are finished with Celluma red light therapy to speed up healing and boost results. You can return to your daily activities feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Number of Recommended Visits
Cosmetic acupuncture jumpstarts your skin’s ability to rebuild collagen, which requires an initial series of treatments. Typically, 1-2 treatments per week for a total of 10-12 sessions are recommended.
After this initial series, the collagen your body has built is like money in the bank—it stays there until it's spent. The results can last for years, with occasional maintenance sessions recommended to keep your skin looking its best.
The Verdict: Which Treatment is Your Perfect Match?
Choosing between microneedling and cosmetic acupuncture depends entirely on your personal goals.
Choose Microneedling if: Your primary concerns are surface-level issues like acne scars, deep wrinkles, sun damage, or uneven skin texture. It provides targeted, transformative results for the skin itself.
Choose Cosmetic Acupuncture if: You are looking for a holistic treatment that improves your skin’s glow while also enhancing your overall well-being. It is excellent for lifting, firming, and addressing internal imbalances that contribute to aging.
Both treatments offer a natural and effective path to healthier, more vibrant skin. By understanding what each one brings to the table, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your vision for your skin and health.
Celluma Light Therapy as an Add-on to Either Service
For even better results, consider pairing your treatment with Celluma Light Therapy—an advanced, low-level light therapy (LLLT) system available as an optional add-on at Magnolia Wellness. Celluma delivers a unique combination of blue, red, and near-infrared light to:
Reduce fine lines and wrinkles by up to 80%
Clear acne with a 90% success rate
Accelerate wound healing by 40%
Boost elasticity and increase collagen production
Decrease hyperpigmentation for a more even skin tone
Celluma is scientifically proven to enhance your results—making it the perfect complement to both microneedling and cosmetic acupuncture. Whether you’re looking to fight signs of aging, target stubborn breakouts, or speed up recovery, adding Celluma to your service gives your skin that extra glow and vitality.
Ask about adding Celluma Light Therapy to your next appointment for an instant boost in your skin’s health and radiance!
Want to See the Benefits for Yourself?
If you’re local to Orange County, CA and ready to transform your skin and wellbeing, we’d love to see you at Magnolia Wellness! Our skilled practitioners are here to help you achieve radiant, healthy skin—whether you choose cosmetic acupuncture, microneedling, or both.
Book your appointment:
Let’s boost your confidence and help you glow from the inside out—schedule your visit today!
Curious to Learn More?
Check out these resources to dive deeper into our treatments and see real results:
Watch a microneedling session at Magnolia Wellness with Dr. Marisa Puente
Read our blog: Forget Botox—Here's How to Age in Reverse, Naturally
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