Are AquaGold® and SkinPen® Microneedling Treatments the Same?
As the seasons change, skin conditions such as dullness, uneven tone, dehydration, and fine lines suddenly feel more visible. Our patients often request AquaGold® or SkinPen® Microneedling treatments, assuming they are the same because both involve very fine needles to enhance product absorption and improvement in the appearance of the skin; however, they serve very different purposes.
AquaGold®: The Skin Polisher
AquaGold® is best thought of as a micro-infusion treatment. It uses a stamping device with extremely fine 24-carat gold-plated hollow needles to deliver a customized blend of ingredients just beneath the skin’s surface. treatment is most effective on delicate, thin skin, such as the face, hands, and chest. It improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and increases hydration in a quick, easy in-office treatment.
What makes our AquaGold® facial unique is the level of customization. Every treatment begins with a base that generally includes hyaluronic acid for hydration, along with carefully selected actives such as retinol and vitamin C. From there, we tailor the treatment by incorporating targeted ampoules based on your skin’s needs. Antioxidants for environmental stress, anti-pollutant blends for daily exposure, lifting and toning ampoules for subtle refinement, brightening complexes for uneven tone. It becomes a personalized infusion rather than a one-size-fits-all facial. AquaGold® (FineTouch™) treatments are an advanced procedure performed by our Aesthetic Nurse Injectors to additionally infuse a combination of neurotoxins and hyaluronic acid fillers to further improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The results are immediate. Skin looks smoother, more luminous, more even. Pores appear refined. Fine lines soften. There is little downtime, which makes it ideal for special events, travel, or simply wanting to feel polished and refreshed again.
Microneedling with SkinPen®: The Structural Reset
Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), with SkinPen® Precision Elite, also uses a needle delivery system; however, it works in a completely different way. Instead of focusing on delivery, it focuses on stimulating collagen and elastin production.
The thin needles penetrate deeper into the skin, creating controlled micro-injuries that trigger a natural healing response, leading to long-term improvements in texture, fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, and laxity. For patient comfort, we apply topical numbing prior to treatment.
When we pair microneedling with advanced topicals like PDGF+, we are supporting that renewal process at a deeper level. Over time, the skin becomes stronger, smoother, and more resilient. Results build gradually, creating meaningful change rather than a surface effect. Post-treatment, there is no significant downtime.
The results are a gradual, long-lasting improvement to the skin rather than a quick fix.
How Your Provider Chooses the Best Option for You
If your skin appears dull, dehydrated, or uneven, AquaGold® is often the perfect place to begin. It restores glow, improves tone, and brings the skin back to life without overwhelming it.
If you are focused on deeper concerns such as laxity, skin rejuvenation, or long-term collagen support, microneedling is the more appropriate path, especially when done in a series.
In many cases, the most thoughtful approach is not choosing one over the other, but knowing when to use each. AquaGold® to polish and refine. Microneedling to rebuild and strengthen. Your Clinical Provider will guide you in choosing the appropriate treatment to achieve your aesthetic goals and maintain healthy, radiant skin.
Please call our office to schedule a consultation with one of our clinical providers to learn more and discover the treatments best suited for your skin type.
– Lisa Florence, Licensed Aesthetician