Differences Between TCM & Cosmetic Microneedling
Microneedling has become one of the most sought-after treatments in skin rejuvenation. However, not all microneedling is created equal. Even within Reno, two very different approaches are available: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Microneedling, offered by Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD, and Cosmetic Microneedling, offered at med spas such as Bella Derma Skin Care Solutions.
While both techniques use fine needles to rejuvenate the skin, their purpose, process, and physiological effects differ in fundamental ways.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive technique that uses very fine, sterile needles to create microchannels in the skin. These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing response, stimulating collagen and elastin production. The result is firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.
Where the approaches diverge is how and why the technique is used. Cosmetic microneedling focuses primarily on the skin’s surface and appearance, while TCM Microneedling, as practiced by Dr. Rachel Abare, integrates ancient Chinese medical theory to treat both external appearance and internal balance.
TCM Microneedling with Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD
Dr. Rachel Abare, a board-certified Doctor of Oriental Medicine (OMD) and licensed acupuncturist in Reno, practices TCM Microneedling — a deeply holistic approach to facial rejuvenation and skin health.
This treatment combines modern microneedling techniques with the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, addressing not only the skin’s surface but also the internal energetic systems that influence it.
How TCM Microneedling Works
Dr. Abare’s TCM Microneedling sessions begin with an evaluation of each patient’s overall health, lifestyle, and internal imbalances. Treatments often include:
- Facial microneedling focused on specific acupuncture points and meridians.
- Topical herbal serums formulated according to TCM principles.
- Body acupuncture to support systemic health and balance Qi (energy) and blood flow.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, skin reflects the health of internal organs and energy pathways. By stimulating points on the face, Dr. Abare activates meridians that correspond to the liver, kidney, stomach, spleen, and lungs — organs that influence complexion, elasticity, and moisture balance.
The TCM Perspective on Skin Health
Traditional Chinese Medicine views beauty and skin health as a direct reflection of internal harmony.
For example:
- The liver meridian influences pigmentation and hormonal balance.
- The lung meridian governs skin moisture and elasticity.
- The kidney meridian affects under-eye darkness and puffiness.
By stimulating these meridians, TCM Microneedling does more than promote collagen — it helps restore internal balance, which supports longer-lasting improvements in skin tone, clarity, and vitality.
Cosmetic Microneedling Offered at Med Spas
In contrast, cosmetic microneedling as performed at med spas, such as Bella Derma Skin Care Solutions in Reno, is primarily an aesthetic treatment designed to enhance the appearance of the skin’s surface. This approach uses similar tools — fine microneedles — but focuses on controlled superficial injury to stimulate collagen induction therapy (CIT).
Typical Cosmetic Microneedling Goals
- Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
- Smoothing acne scars
- Refining pores
- Improving overall skin texture and tone
- Enhancing absorption of topical serums and hyaluronic acid
While highly effective for cosmetic rejuvenation, this approach is not designed to treat systemic imbalances or the underlying causes of recurring skin problems.
TCM Microneedling vs. Cosmetic Microneedling: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | TCM Microneedling | Cosmetic Microneedling |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Rejuvenate skin while restoring internal balance | Improve skin appearance and texture |
| Philosophy | Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine; holistic | Based on Western dermatology and skincare science |
| Approach | Combines acupuncture, herbal serums, and meridian therapy | Focuses on collagen induction through micro-injury |
| Targets | Both skin health and systemic well-being | Surface-level skin repair and anti-aging |
| Techniques Used | Facial and body acupuncture; TCM-formulated topicals | Medical-grade microneedling pen with cosmetic serums |
| Treatment Focus | Corrects root causes such as stress, hormonal imbalance, and organ dysfunction | Addresses surface symptoms like fine lines and scars |
| Longevity of Results | Long-term results due to improved internal balance | Temporary results requiring periodic maintenance |
The Science Behind TCM Microneedling
From a Western medical perspective, microneedling promotes collagen and elastin production through the wound-healing cascade. However, when acupuncture principles are integrated, deeper physiological mechanisms are activated:
- Neurochemical Modulation:
The insertion of needles stimulates the release of beta-endorphins and serotonin, which not only improve mood but also regulate inflammation and pain. - Microcirculation Enhancement:
Needling facial acupuncture points increases local blood flow, improving oxygenation and nutrient delivery to the skin. - Cellular Regeneration:
Micro-injuries activate fibroblasts — the skin’s repair cells — leading to new collagen matrix formation and enhanced elasticity. - Energetic Regulation (Qi and Blood Flow):
According to TCM, facial meridians are gateways for Qi flow. By restoring this balance, the skin receives better nourishment from within.
The result is not only smoother skin, but improved overall wellness, making TCM Microneedling both a cosmetic and therapeutic procedure.
Holistic Benefits of TCM Microneedling
Patients who receive TCM Microneedling from Dr. Abare often report improvements far beyond their complexion, such as:
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced anxiety and stress
- Diminished tension headaches
- Improved digestion and hormonal balance
- More even energy throughout the day
This reflects the mind-body connection emphasized in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where radiant skin is a visible sign of internal health.
Choose Dr. Rachel Abare for TCM Microneedling in Reno
Dr. Abare’s extensive training as an Oriental Medical Doctor distinguishes her from standard cosmetic providers. Her approach is grounded in:
- Over a decade of experience in acupuncture and holistic healing
- Specialized study in facial acupuncture and skin rejuvenation
- A deep understanding of how internal organ systems influence external beauty
Each treatment plan is individualized: balancing cosmetic goals with medical insight to restore harmony at every level of the body.
When to Choose Cosmetic Microneedling Instead
Cosmetic microneedling from Bella Derma Skin Care Solutions may be appropriate if your primary goal is:
- Reducing scars or surface wrinkles quickly
- Smoothing uneven texture without addressing internal balance
- Receiving a purely aesthetic procedure without holistic consultation
It’s an excellent option for those looking for immediate, surface-level improvements, especially when supported by a consistent skincare routine.
The Bottom Line: Integrative Beauty and Wellness in Reno
Both TCM Microneedling and Cosmetic Microneedling have value, but they serve different needs.
If you’re seeking a comprehensive, whole-body approach to beauty and wellness, Dr. Rachel Abare’s TCM Microneedling offers a path that integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern skin science.
If you’re simply looking for cosmetic skin rejuvenation, Bella Derma Skin Care Solutions provides a high-quality aesthetic service.
Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you want to treat only the surface, or also the root causes that influence the skin from within.