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RF Microneedling + Laser: A Combination Approach to Skin Resurfacing
Last updated on September 21, 2026
Some skin concerns involve more than one layer of the skin. For these concerns, combining Radio Frequency (RF) Microneedling with Laser treatment can provide a more comprehensive treatment approach.
RF microneedling and laser work differently. When carefully selected and combined, they can target skin texture, scarring, collagen remodelling and other signs of skin ageing within the same treatment plan.
How does RF Microneedling + Laser work?
RF microneedling uses fine needles to deliver radiofrequency energy at a controlled depth within the skin. The treatment creates controlled thermal zones that can stimulate collagen remodelling and improve the appearance of uneven texture and scarring.
Laser treatment uses a specific wavelength of light to target selected layers or structures within the skin. The laser used depends on your concern and the treatment plan. At Queensland Skin and Laser, combination treatment may include:
- RF microneedling + 1540 nm Erbium laser
- RF microneedling + CO₂ laser
- RF microneedling + 2940 nm Er:YAG laser
Each technology has different characteristics. Therefore, the combination and treatment settings are selected according to your skin and the result being targeted.
Why combine RF microneedling and laser?
RF microneedling can treat deeper areas of the skin, while laser can address the surface and other targeted skin changes. Combining the two may therefore allow us to address several components of a concern within one treatment plan. Potential treatment goals include:
- Improving uneven skin texture
- Reducing the appearance of acne scars
- Improving selected surgical or traumatic scars
- Supporting collagen remodelling
- Improving fine lines and wrinkles
- Refining the appearance of enlarged pores
- Addressing selected pigmentation and sun damage
- Improving overall skin quality
The appropriate combination depends on your individual skin. More treatment does not necessarily mean better treatment.
RF microneedling + 1540 nm Erbium laser
The 1540 nm Erbium laser can deliver energy into the deeper dermal layers of the skin. When combined with RF microneedling, it can form part of a treatment plan focused on collagen remodelling and skin texture. This combination may be considered for selected acne scars, surgical scars, stretch marks and other textural concerns.
RF microneedling + CO₂ laser
CO₂ laser resurfacing is a more intensive laser treatment that can address the surface of the skin while stimulating changes within the underlying tissue. Combining CO₂ laser with RF microneedling may be considered when both surface texture and deeper skin remodelling need to be addressed. Because CO₂ laser can involve a more significant recovery period, patient selection and treatment settings are important.
RF microneedling + 2940 nm Er:YAG laser
The 2940 nm Er laser has a strong interaction with water within the skin and can be used for controlled resurfacing. It may form part of a combination treatment when improving skin texture and resurfacing is an important component of the treatment plan. The depth and intensity of treatment can be adjusted according to the area and concern being treated.
The right combination for your skin
RF microneedling and laser can work together to address different aspects of skin texture, scarring and ageing. However, the most appropriate combination depends on your skin, the concern being treated and the level of treatment required. At Queensland Skin and Laser, we assess your skin before recommending a treatment plan. Whether RF microneedling is used alone or combined with 1540 nm Erbium, CO₂ or 2940 nm Er laser, our approach is tailored to your individual needs.
Book a consultation to discuss whether combination RF microneedling and laser treatment is suitable for your skin.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr Mark Chernoff
Dr. Mark Chernoff holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Health Physiology, as well as a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Melbourne. With a background in general and plastic surgery, he has gained extensive experience in Emergency Medicine and skin cancer surgery, performing over 500 procedures annually. Dr. Chernoff is a Visiting Medical Officer in Emergency Medicine and a GP Surgeon in rural NSW, and he is actively involved in mentoring, supervising, and accrediting healthcare professionals through the RACGP, Rural Doctors’ Network, and AGPAL.
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