If you’re familiar with advanced skin treatments, you’ve probably heard of microneedling, a cosmetic treatment where small needles create wounds that encourage the body to produce collagen and elastin.
But there is a type of microneedling treatment you might not know about that is endorsed by celebrities (Kim Kardashian called it a “game changer”) and beauty influencers that has generated substantial interest.
It’s called Morpheus8. Think of it as microneedling– electrified. You’ll understand what we mean by that as you continue to read. But let’s just say its dual-action approach produces results you won’t get from a traditional microneedling treatment.
Because Morpheus8 is relatively new, people seem to have lots of questions, and there are a lot of myths circulating about this groundbreaking skin treatment. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Morpheus8.
We’ll tell you what it is, how it works, what happens during and after the procedure, key benefits, if it’s right for you, how it differs from traditional microneedling, and the truth about whether or not the procedure is painful.
We’ll also explore several other popular skin tightening treatments to consider as a stand-alone or add-on treatment to Morpheus8 that will leave your skin tighter and healthier, with fewer deep lines, skin imperfections, and textural irregularities. Let’s dive in!
What is Morpheus8?
Morpheus8 is a fractional skin laser treatment, a type of minimally invasive laser skin resurfacing procedure that targets a portion (fraction) of skin at a time. Morpheus8 is the name of the microneedling device used in this power-duo treatment.
Morpheus8 represents a newer advancement in microneedling, aiming to enhance effectiveness compared to traditional microneedling methods. This innovative procedure is gaining significant traction for those seeking skin tightening and rejuvenation, quickly becoming a sought-after treatment to address various skin concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, and overall texture irregularities.
What sets Morpheus8 apart from regular microneedling is the additional use of radiofrequency (RF) energy to the deep layers of the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production, promoting skin tightening and firmness.
The microneedling and RF energy combo allows Morpheus8 to penetrate more deeply than traditional microneedling, targeting both the superficial and deep layers of the skin. This dual-action approach results in improved skin texture, reduced signs of aging, and enhanced overall skin quality.
While the most popular area to use Morpheus8 is the face, it is known for its versatility and effectiveness in treating various regions of the face and body.
Is Morpheus8 the Same as Microneedling?
Yes and no! Both Microneedling and Morpheus8 aim to improve skin rejuvenation, but they are different procedures with varying techniques and outcomes. While both procedures use microneedles, Morpheus8 incorporates radiofrequency energy, providing a more comprehensive approach to skin rejuvenation with the added benefits of skin tightening.
Microneedling is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that can address various skin concerns. It involves the use of a device equipped with fine needles to create micro-injuries on the skin surface. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing response, producing new collagen and elastin, enhancing skin texture, reducing fine lines, and improving the skin’s overall appearance.
Morpheus8 is an advanced and minimally invasive treatment that combines the use of microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) energy. This technology allows for deeper penetration into the skin’s layers, stimulating collagen and elastin production like microneedling while delivering controlled heat to the deeper tissues. This promotes skin tightening and contouring.
The choice between the two depends on individual skin concerns, treatment goals, and the level of invasiveness desired. However, Morpheus8 is often preferred over microneedling due to its ability to address textural irregularities and provide significant skin-tightening effects.
Consulting with a qualified Morpheus8 skin care professional can help determine the most suitable option based on your individual needs.
What are the Benefits of Morpheus8 Treatments?
Morpheus8 isn’t your average skincare solution; it’s a game-changer for a wide range of skin concerns, offering benefits you won’t get with regular microneedling or many other skin-tightening procedures. Plus, it is non-surgical, minimally invasive, and requires very little recovery time.
Morpheus8 targets and helps correct the following skin concerns:
Smooths Uneven Skin Tone and Texture
Morpheus8 deploys microneedles with fractional radiofrequency, precisely targeting and remodeling the skin’s surface to smooth out uneven texture.
Revitalizes Dull, Lackluster Skin
Through fractional microneedling, Morpheus8 stimulates collagen production, revitalizing dull skin and promoting a radiant complexion.
Reduces Lines and Wrinkles
Morpheus8’s advanced microneedling penetrates deeper than traditional methods, inducing controlled micro-injuries. This process triggers the skin’s natural healing response, enhancing collagen production and effectively reducing lines and wrinkles.
Boosts Collagen Production
By combining microneedling and radiofrequency, Morpheus8 amplifies collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness.
Improves Acne
Signs of aging aren’t the only thing that Morpheus8 can correct. Many people see a drastic minimization of active acne. Morpheus8 targets active acne by reducing sebum production and inflammation, promoting clearer skin.
Minimizes Acne Scarring
In addition to helping treat active acne, Morpheus8 can also minimize the appearance of acne scars, providing a smoother complexion.
Addresses Sun Damage and Age Spots
Morpheus8’s fractional microneedling and radiofrequency work together to address sun damage and dark spots by promoting collagen regeneration and improving overall skin tone.
Lifts and Tightens Skin
The radiofrequency technology in Morpheus8 enhances skin tightening by contracting existing collagen fibers and stimulating new collagen production, providing a non-surgical facelift effect.
Fades Stretch Marks
Morpheus8 stimulates collagen production, aiding in the fading of stretch marks and contributing to a more even skin tone.
Reduces Hyperpigmentation
Morpheus8 targets hyperpigmentation by promoting an even distribution of melanin, resulting in a reduction of dark spots and a more balanced skin tone.
Minimizes Pores
Morpheus8’s microneedling and radiofrequency combination helps tighten and remodel collagen, leading to reduced pore size and smoother-looking skin.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for Morpheus8?
It doesn’t matter if you are 20 or 70; Morpheus8 is the perfect treatment for anyone concerned about signs of aging and sun damage. It is also an effective solution for stretch marks, large pores, various textural irregularities, and even those with acne or acne scars.
Morpheus8 is most sought after for its effectiveness in correcting various skin concerns on the face, but it can also be used on other parts of the body, such as:
- Jawline
- Neck
- Below the chin
- Arms
- Stomach
- Buttocks
- Above the knees
- Inner and outer thighs
If you are unsure if Morpheus8 is the best treatment for your concerns, book a consultation with a treatment provider experienced in Morpheus8 treatments.
What Happens During Morpheus8 Treatments?
Upon arrival, a numbing agent will be applied to the treatment area. This needs to sit on your skin for about 45 minutes. Once you are numb, the procedure can begin.
Your provider activates the Morpheus8 device, equipped with a matrix of microneedles applied to the skin’s surface. This precise technology facilitates the penetration of the microneedles, engaging the skin rejuvenation process.
Following the numbing process, your provider will activate the Morpheus8 device, equipped with a matrix of microneedles applied to the skin’s surface in a fractional pattern.
Simultaneously, radiofrequency (RF) energy is precisely delivered to the deeper layers, promoting collagen and elastin production. This dual-action fractional process allows for a targeted approach, addressing both superficial and deep layers of the skin.
You may experience a warm sensation throughout the session due to the RF energy, but the prior numbing ensures your comfort. We’ll discuss this in a little more depth next. Appointment time varies depending on the treatment area, but most patients are in and out in only 1-2 hours, including numbing time.
After the treatment, a soothing serum or cream is applied to aid in recovery, and you are set to go home and resume most of your normal activities. You will be provided post-care instructions, which may include gentle skincare and sun protection, to optimize and maintain the results.
It is recommended that you schedule follow-up treatments before leaving to achieve optimal results with Morpheus8 skin rejuvenation. These sessions should be scheduled about every 4-6 weeks.
Does Morpheus8 Treatment Hurt?
This is a big topic of conversation on the internet, with some claiming they found Morpheus8 treatments uncomfortable, and others saying they barely felt anything at all. Everyone has a different pain tolerance, so it’s no surprise that we see such conflicting statements.
We wouldn’t say that Morpheus8 is relaxing (like a hydrafacial), but we certainly wouldn’t categorize Morpheus8 as painful. Most patients say Morpheus8 treatments are extremely tolerable, describing the feeling as brief “zaps” or a “stamping” sensation.
Before your Morpheus8 treatment, a numbing agent is used, so you should barely feel anything during the treatment. If you have anxiety about pain, you can speak with your treatment provider about additional options to help you remain comfortable.
What to Expect After Morpheus8 Treatment
Morpheus8 is a minimally invasive procedure that requires minimal downtime, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking non-surgical skin rejuvenation.
Following your Morpheus8 session, you might encounter slight redness, similar to a light sunburn, swelling, bruising, or temporary numbness in the treated area. Micro lesions might also be visible for a few days after treatment.
All of these effects are generally mild and go away within 3-10 days. You can use ice packs and Tylenol for pain and swelling and Arnica supplements for bruising.
Most patients can resume their regular activities during this period. Your practitioner will provide you with full post-procedure instructions and answer any questions you have, but here are a few things you are advised to avoid the first 24-48 hours following treatment:
- Shaving
- Makeup
- Harsh skincare products
- Direct sun exposure and tanning beds
- Picking or touching the treatment area
- Motrin or Ibuprofen (they cause bleeding or bruising)
- Anything that can produce heavy perspiration (saunas, hot tubs, strenuous exercise, etc.)
Patients should moisturize the treatment area with an approved gentle moisturizer and wear a quality broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
How Long Does it Take to See Results from a Morpheus8 Treatment?
It depends on the extent of your skin concerns and the area treated. For some patients, visible results can be seen within just a few days! But typically, around the 3-6 week mark is when most patients begin to see the most noticeable results, with improvements continuing for up to six months after treatment.
While results can be achieved after only one treatment, optimal outcomes with Morpheus8 skin rejuvenation are most effectively attained through several sessions. The specific number of treatments varies based on factors such as the treatment area, age, and individual considerations.
Typically, we suggest 3-6 treatment sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
Who Can Perform Morpheus8 Skin Tightening Treatments?
A licensed nurse, doctor, aesthetician, or plastic surgeon can provide the Morpheus8 treatment. However, you shouldn’t only check for credentials. Verifying that the chosen professional possesses specialized training and extensive experience in administering the Morpheus8 procedure is equally essential.
Ensuring that your chosen practitioner possesses hands-on expertise and a deep understanding of Morpheus8’s device is crucial. This guarantees that you’re in the hands of a knowledgeable professional capable of tailoring the treatment to address your specific skin concerns safely and effectively.
Other Popular Skin Tightening Treatments to Consider
If you find that Morpheus8 isn’t the best choice for your skin concerns or want to research other options, there are many ways to tighten your skin without surgery.
Here is a list of some of the most popular skin tightening and rejuvenating treatments offered at Garza Plastic Surgery:
FaceTite
FaceTite is an excellent option for anyone bothered by loose skin on the face or neck, sagging jowls, a double chin, droopy eyelids, nasolabial folds, and more. Beyond reducing sagging, FaceTite also stimulates collagen production, ensuring a gradual yet noticeable improvement over time.
The procedure involves making small incisions near the targeted areas, through which a thin cannula is inserted. This cannula delivers controlled radiofrequency energy to the underlying tissues, heating them and causing immediate collagen contraction.
Once the desired level of tissue tightening is achieved, the RF energy is turned off, and the cannula is removed. The incisions are typically tiny and do not require sutures.
You can go home immediately after the procedure, and most patients have minimal downtime. Some swelling and mild discomfort may be experienced initially, but these side effects typically subside in a few days.
Most patients experience immediate skin tightening, with ongoing improvements in the weeks following the procedure. The full outcome becomes more apparent as the skin continues to tighten and rejuvenate, and collagen production continues.
And the best part… results from FaceTite typically last about five years. If you aren’t quite ready for a facelift, the next best thing to consider is FaceTite.
Evoke
Evoke is a non-invasive approach to facial remodeling, utilizing advanced radiofrequency energy to tighten skin and enhance facial contours. This painless procedure requires no downtime, offering a convenient option for individuals seeking subtle yet effective skin tightening.
Evoke is designed to stimulate collagen production, promoting gradual improvements in skin tightness and overall facial appearance. You can read this article to learn more about the science behind Evoke and to better understand how it differs from Morpheus8.
PDO Threading
PDO threading is a non-surgical solution for skin tightening and lifting. This minimally invasive procedure involves the insertion of Polydioxanone (PDO) threads under the skin, triggering collagen production for firmer and lifted skin.
As the threads naturally dissolve over time, patients experience a rejuvenated appearance. With its minimal invasiveness and natural-looking results, PDO threading is a popular choice for those desiring facial rejuvenation without the need for surgery.
You can read this article to learn more about the PDO Threading technique and this one to read up on some common PDO Threading myths.
Injectables
Injectables have always been a “go-to” for facial rejuvenation. They are a safe, easy, and effective way to turn back time. Among the most sought-after injectables are Botox, dermal fillers, and Kybella, each offering unique benefits in addressing various aesthetic concerns.
Botox
Botox is a popular purified botulinum toxin injectable treatment that targets wrinkles caused by muscle movement, particularly around the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes.
This quick, painless procedure involves a series of small injections into specific muscles, blocking nerve signals and preventing muscle contractions that lead to wrinkles.
Botox is celebrated for its ability to soften facial lines and create a smoother, more youthful appearance, with results lasting several months. It can also be used for migraine relief, reduced armpit sweating and treating TMJ.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers consist of hyaluronic acid or other biocompatible substances injected into areas of the face to restore volume, soften creases, and enhance facial contours. These fillers effectively address static wrinkles, such as smile lines, marionette lines, and areas of volume loss.
By replenishing lost volume and hydrating the skin, dermal fillers offer immediate results, smoothing wrinkles and providing a more youthful appearance. The effects can last from several months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used and individual factors.
Kybella
Kybella is an injectable treatment specifically designed to reduce submental fullness, often referred to as a “double chin.” It contains a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
When injected into the fat beneath the chin, Kybella disrupts fat cells, leading to a noticeable reduction in the appearance of a double chin. Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary to achieve optimal results, and once the desired outcome is reached, the results are typically long-lasting.
SKINVIVE™
While it’s not technically a skin-tightening treatment, SKINVIVE™, the latest addition to the Juvéderm family of fillers, is worth mentioning if you want to add some serious hydration to your skin. SkinVive is deemed an “injectable moisturizer” for good reason.
SkinVive does not work the same way as traditional fillers do. Instead, it aims to provide hydration and glow to your skin rather than restore volume. Patients who have used SkinVive have reported a remarkable improvement in their skin’s glow, hydration, refreshment, and overall health.
The primary ingredient in SkinVive is hyaluronic acid (HA), a key component in many facial fillers. However, SkinVive differs from other fillers in that it delivers HA in microdroplets, making it the first and only FDA-approved HA administered intradermally.
SkinVive also includes a unique blend of antioxidants, amino acids, and minerals that work together to protect the skin from external aggressors such as pollution and UV rays.
If you want to correct skin issues and hydrate your skin, talk to your provider about combining SkinVive with your preferred skin tightening treatment.
Facelift
If sagging skin and deep wrinkles have become persistent concerns, it might be time to consider a surgical skin tightening solution, such as a facelift. By precisely lifting and tightening sagging skin on the face and neck, a facelift delivers dramatic and long-lasting results, restoring not just your facial features but also your confidence.
If you are worried about looking overly plastic or unnatural, don’t be. Modern facelift techniques prioritize natural-looking results, restoring a more youthful appearance without sacrificing facial expressiveness. These days, plastic surgeons can employ advanced methods to lift and reposition tissues, ensuring that the outcome enhances your features while preserving your unique characteristics.
While a facelift is considered the most invasive option to rejuvenate your face and neck, advancements in surgical techniques have reduced the overall invasiveness and improved recovery. Most facelifts do not require an extended hospital stay, with patients typically returning home the same day.
You can expect the rejuvenating effects of a facelift to last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more profound skin transformation.
The Best Place For Morpheus8 and Other Popular Skin Tightening Treatments In Nashville
When it comes to skin tightening and freshening up your face or neck, especially when considering specialized treatments such as Morpheus8, it is important to only allow a board-certified plastic surgeon, nurse practitioner, or licensed aesthetician trained and experienced in Morpheus8 to perform your procedure.
At Garza Plastic Surgery, we have a highly skilled trio of doctors and nurse practitioner who excel in the art of Morpheus8 and other cutting-edge skin-tightening treatments. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring every patient achieves their desired results in a safe and professional environment.
It is also advised that you book your procedure earlier in the year. The winter months are ideal for cosmetic procedures like Morpheus8 and plastic surgery. You are exposed to fewer UV rays, the cooler temperatures provide a comfortable environment for recovery, and staying indoors aligns with the rest and relaxation needed after some of these treatments.
Many of these treatments offer long-lasting results, so why wait? Get the skin you deserve by booking your complimentary consultation and scheduling your procedure today!
