RF microneedling and traditional microneedling both work with your skin's own renewal process, but they reach different depths and suit different goals. At Aesthetics Collective in Murfreesboro, our licensed aestheticians offer both, and choosing between them comes down to what you want your skin to do next. This guide compares the two side by side, so you can walk into your consultation already knowing the right questions to ask.
Traditional microneedling uses a device with ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-channels in the skin. This controlled micro-channeling signals your skin to respond and renew, boosting the production of collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin smooth, firm and resilient.
Because the channels are tiny and precise, the treatment refreshes texture and tone while your skin does the rebuilding work. It is a trusted, well-established treatment for clients who want smoother skin, softer fine lines and a more refined surface. If you would like a deeper dive into the classic treatment, read our guide to microneedling benefits and recovery in Murfreesboro.
RF microneedling combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy. The radiofrequency is delivered through ultra-fine needles, which lets the energy reach deeper layers of the skin. That added energy stimulates collagen and elastin at a deeper level than needling alone.
Think of it this way: traditional microneedling focuses on renewing the skin's surface and upper layers, while RF microneedling adds a second, deeper layer of stimulation. That is why RF microneedling is often chosen by clients whose goals include firmness and tightening, not only texture.
We offer two RF microneedling options: Face Only, or Face, Neck and Décolletage. The neck and chest often show early signs of laxity and sun exposure, so treating them together helps your results look balanced from jawline to collarbone.
Both treatments are excellent. The best choice depends on your goals, your skin and your timeline.
Traditional microneedling relies on controlled micro-channeling alone. RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy through the needles to stimulate collagen and elastin at deeper levels. If you want to focus on surface texture and glow, classic microneedling is a strong option. If you want to address firmness and deeper concerns, RF is typically the stronger match.
Traditional microneedling suits clients who want smoother texture, softer fine lines and a fresher look. RF microneedling suits clients who want those benefits plus support for laxity, acne scars and enlarged pores. Your aesthetician will confirm the right fit during your skin assessment.
At Aesthetics Collective, microneedling is listed at $225 and RF microneedling at $899 on our advanced skin treatments page. For both treatments, a series is often recommended, and your provider will walk you through your personalized plan before you commit.
Collagen building is a process, not a single event. For both treatments, a series is often recommended so each session can build on the last. Your aesthetician will suggest a plan based on your goals, your skin and your calendar.
Knowing what to expect after treatment makes it easier to plan your week. Here is the typical recovery path for traditional microneedling at our Murfreesboro studio:
Aftercare protects your investment and supports healing. After microneedling, avoid makeup for 7 days and avoid sun exposure for 7 days. Approved post-care products are required, and your aesthetician will tell you exactly which ones to use. Skipping these steps can irritate freshly treated skin, so we keep the instructions clear and simple.
For RF microneedling, your provider will give you personalized aftercare based on your treatment area and skin. Follow those instructions closely, and reach out to our team with any questions during your recovery.
Whether you choose RF microneedling or traditional microneedling, your appointment follows a clear, calm sequence. Knowing the steps ahead of time helps your visit feel easy and relaxed.
Your aesthetician begins by cleansing the treatment area and reviewing your goals one more time. This is a good moment to point out the specific areas you care about most, such as texture on the cheeks, lines around the mouth or firmness along the neck. Your provider will explain what you will feel and what to expect as the session progresses.
For traditional microneedling, the device moves across your skin in a methodical pattern, creating controlled micro-channels. For RF microneedling, the ultra-fine needles also deliver radiofrequency energy to deeper layers. In both cases, your provider adjusts the approach to your skin and checks in with you throughout, so you stay comfortable and informed.
Before you head home, you will receive your aftercare instructions and guidance on your approved post-care products. We will also talk through timing for your next session if a series is part of your plan. Our Murfreesboro team is always happy to answer questions after your visit, so you never have to guess about your skin.
Microneedling and RF microneedling fit neatly into a larger skin plan. Some clients use IPL to address sun spots and redness, then focus on microneedling for texture and firmness. Others maintain their results between sessions with customized facials and a medical-grade home care routine. Your aesthetician will help you sequence treatments so each one supports the next, and so your skin has the time it needs to recover in between.
Before either treatment, we start with a consultation and skin assessment. This is where your aesthetician looks at your skin's texture, tone, firmness and history, and listens to what you want to change. It is also where we confirm that microneedling or RF microneedling is the right tool for your goals.
Some clients discover that classic microneedling is the ideal starting point. Others are better served by RF from the start. Some combine treatments over time with facials, peels or IPL. A thoughtful assessment keeps your plan focused and your expectations realistic.
The Aesthetics Collective team of licensed aestheticians and Nurse Injectors (RN, LE, NP) serves clients across Murfreesboro, Smyrna, Franklin and the greater Nashville area. If you are unsure where to begin, a complimentary consultation is the easiest first step.
If you are still deciding, these questions can help:
Fall is also a smart season to start. With less time in strong sun, it is easier to follow sun-avoidance aftercare, and a series started now can progress well before the holidays.
Ready to invest in smoother, firmer-looking skin? Book RF microneedling or book traditional microneedling online. Not sure which is right for you? Start with a complimentary consultation, or call (615) 801-8078. Visit us at 220 Veterans Parkway, Murfreesboro, TN 37128.
Neither is better for everyone. RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen and elastin at deeper levels, which suits firmness and deeper concerns. Traditional microneedling is a great choice for texture and tone.
At Aesthetics Collective, RF microneedling is listed at $899 and traditional microneedling at $225. A series is often recommended, and your aesthetician will confirm your plan during your consultation.
Skin is typically pink and sensitive on days 1 to 2, tight and dry on days 3 to 4, and back to normal from day 5. Avoid makeup and sun for 7 days, and use approved post-care products.
Yes. We offer a Face, Neck and Décolletage option in addition to Face Only. Treating these areas together helps your results look balanced.
Yes. Every microneedling and RF microneedling plan starts with a consultation and skin assessment. This helps your aesthetician choose the right treatment and plan for your goals.
