RF Microneedling vs. MicroCoring: What’s the Difference and Which One Is Right for You?

Collagen isn’t just a buzzword – it’s the backbone of youthful, firm, glowing skin. And when it starts to break down (thanks to aging and sun damage), we’ve got to call in the big guns.

At Medical Aesthetics of the Hudson Valley, we offer two powerhouse collagen-stimulating treatments: Radiofrequency Microneedling and MicroCoring by Ellacor. Both are excellent non-surgical options to tighten skin, smooth texture, and rebuild support, but they work very differently.

If you're wondering which one’s right for you, here’s what you need to know.

What is RF Microneedling?

RF Microneedling combines ultra-fine needles with radiofrequency energy to deliver heat below the surface of your skin. This heat stimulates the fibroblasts to go into overdrive—resulting in firmer, smoother, more refined skin over time.

  • Improves fine lines and wrinkles

  • Great for acne scars and texture

  • Tightens mildly loose skin (especially face + neck)

  • Shrinks pores and evens tone

  • We love it for the eyes, jawline, neck, and crepey skin.

Downtime: 1–3 days of redness and mild swelling
Best results: 3–4 sessions, one month apart
Price range: $850/session or package pricing available

What is MicroCoring?

MicroCoring by Ellacor is an, FDA-cleared skin-tightening treatment that physically removes micro-columns of skin (not just injures it). There’s no heat involved, which makes it ideal for clients who can’t do thermal treatments. As the skin heals and closes the micro-cores, you get visible tightening, firming, and improvement in wrinkles—especially in the lower face and jowls.

  • Lifts sagging skin (especially lower face + mouth area)

  • Smooths deep crepey texture

  • No heat = no thermal damage

  • Great for clients who’ve prepped with RF or lasers

Downtime: 3–7 days of redness, swelling, and pinpoint crusting
Best results: 1–3 sessions spaced 3+ months apart
Price range: $7,500 for full-face treatment

Final Thoughts

If your skin is just starting to lose firmness, RF Microneedling is a great place to begin. But if you’re seeing laxity around the mouth, marionette lines, or lower face sagging that just isn’t responding enough to other treatments, MicroCoring might be the game-changer. We’ll help you decide what’s best for your skin, your lifestyle, and your long-term goals during a personalized consultation. Serving Kingston, Rhinebeck, Woodstock, and the entire Hudson Valley with expert skin-tightening care.

Choose RF Microneedling if…

  • You want glow + texture improvement

  • You need mild skin tightening

  • You want minimal downtime

Choose MicroCoring if…

  • You need more skin tightening

  • You have deeper laxity, jowling, or crepey skin

  • You’ve already done lasers or RF and want more lift

  • You prefer a heat-free, mechanical approach

Ready for your collagen boost?

Let’s find your perfect match. Call us or book online to schedule your skin consult today.