SKINSTORM vs microneedling: what is the difference?

The main difference is that SKINSTORM is a complete facial with six steps, while microneedling is one targeted treatment. SKINSTORM cleanses, resurfaces, peels, needles, boosts and finishes with light therapy in a single session. Microneedling uses a dedicated device to create tiny channels in the skin while a serum is applied, to trigger collagen where you need it most.

Both renew the skin, but they suit different goals. That's why the SKINSTORM vs microneedling decision usually comes down to whether you want an all-round transformation or a focused result on texture.

What happens in a SKINSTORM facial

• Oxygen Ice Vortex Cleanse: a chilled, oxygenated niacinamide cleanse.
• Resurfacing with phototherapy light: gentle resurfacing paired with red, blue and green light.
• Oxygen Ice Peel: fruit acids, dissolved oxygen and cold to renew the surface.
• Oxygen Ice Needling: oxygen-infused needling to help actives work deeper.
• High-pressure booster: a needle-free step that delivers actives to plump specific areas.
• Triple Fusion Phototherapy: red, blue, green and near-infrared light to finish.

What happens in microneedling

During microneedling at Gina Rose Beauty, your skin is cleansed and prepped, then a sterile device makes many small, controlled punctures while a serum such as exosomes, Medik8 exoPDRN or FGF10 is applied. This uses a dedicated microneedling system, separate from the needling step in SKINSTORM.

Which is better for your skin concern?

SKINSTORM is usually the better choice if you have several concerns at once, such as dullness, congestion, pigmentation and fine lines, or if you want a relaxing treatment with visible results. Microneedling is usually better for deeper texture concerns, such as acne scarring and stretch marks, because it focuses all its effort on rebuilding collagen.

• Dull, dehydrated or congested skin: SKINSTORM.
• Pigmentation and dark marks: SKINSTORM, which includes green light for pigmentation.
• Lines, wrinkles and lax skin on the neck: either, depending on how much you want to treat at once.
• Acne scarring and stretch marks: microneedling, or SKINSTORM as a gentler starting point.

Gina's tip: If you're new to advanced facials, SKINSTORM is a lovely place to start. It treats several concerns at once, and it gives us a good sense of how your skin responds before we look at standalone microneedling.

How do comfort and downtime compare?

Most clients find SKINSTORM relaxing, as the cooling oxygen steps balance the warmth of the light therapy, and it avoids the downtime of more aggressive treatments. Microneedling usually leaves skin pink and warm, a little like mild sunburn, for one to three days. With either treatment, wear SPF and pause active skincare for a few days.

The NHS recommends SPF 30 or higher with good UVA protection, which matters even more after any treatment that renews the skin.

How much do SKINSTORM and microneedling cost?

A SKINSTORM facial starts from £175 for a single 60 to 75-minute session, or £950 for a course of six, which is recommended if you're targeting a specific concern. Microneedling starts from £100 for a 30-minute session, depending on the serum. Both work best as a course, because results build with each session.

Can you have both SKINSTORM and microneedling?

Yes, and many clients do. A common plan is a SKINSTORM course first to improve the overall health and tone of the skin, followed by standalone microneedling or chemical peels once those results have settled. That way, the SKINSTORM vs microneedling question becomes a question of order rather than either or.

A 2024 clinical review of microneedling supports its use for scarring and rejuvenation, which is why it works well as the next step after a facial course. Our guide to how many microneedling sessions you need explains what a typical course looks like.

Who should check with us first

Tell us before booking if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have active cold sores or skin infections, have recently used isotretinoin (Roaccutane), have a bleeding disorder or scar easily. If you have a skin condition such as rosacea, eczema or melasma, speak to your GP or a dermatologist first.

About the author

Gina is the owner of Gina Rose Beauty in Sutton Coldfield and has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry. She specialises in advanced skincare and runs a fully accredited training academy for aspiring beauty professionals. Meet Gina and the team. Last reviewed: October 2026.

Book a free skin consultation in Sutton Coldfield

Still deciding between SKINSTORM vs microneedling? Book a free, no-obligation consultation and we'll recommend the right starting point for your skin, with clear pricing. Book your free skin consultation on Fresha

You can also read more about what happens at a skin consultation, the SKINSTORM facial, or explore all our skincare treatments.

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