Neogen vs. Microneedling vs. CO2 Laser: Which Is Best for Your Skin?
Updated October 20, 2026 · 2 min read
When it comes to skin renewal, three treatments come up again and again: microneedling, CO2 laser and Neogen plasma.
All three aim to renew skin and build collagen, but they get there in very different ways. Here's how to choose.
How Each Treatment Works
Microneedling
A device creates tiny punctures in the skin. Your body responds by producing collagen to repair them.
CO2 laser
An ablative laser removes thin layers of skin or creates columns of injury, triggering deep renewal and collagen production.
Neogen plasma
Nitrogen plasma delivers even heat to the skin. The treated skin stays in place as a natural dressing while fresh skin forms underneath, and collagen builds for months. Learn more in What Is Neogen?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Neogen Plasma | Microneedling | CO2 Laser | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it works | Nitrogen plasma heats skin evenly | Tiny needles create micro-injuries | Laser removes or vaporizes skin |
| Fine lines | Yes | Mild improvement | Yes |
| Texture and tone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Acne scars | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Skin tightening | Yes | Mild | Yes |
| Around the eyes | Yes | Limited | Requires caution |
| Downtime | Adjustable | Usually short | Often longest |
| Sessions needed | Fewer per result | Several | Often one |
When Microneedling Makes Sense
- You want very little downtime
- Your concerns are mild
- You're comfortable with several sessions
When CO2 Laser Makes Sense
- You have significant damage
- You can take extended time off for healing
- You've talked with a provider about the higher risks
When Neogen Makes Sense
- You have multiple concerns, like lines, texture, tone and scarring
- You want to treat around the eyes
- You want strong results with control over downtime
- You'd like collagen-building that keeps improving for months
See the full list in Neogen Plasma Benefits.
What About Skin Type?
Every treatment carries some risk of pigment changes, especially in darker skin tones. Your provider will evaluate your skin type and recommend the safest approach.
Not Sure Which Is Right for You?
At your consultation, we'll assess your skin and goals and recommend the treatment and intensity that fits. Want to know what recovery looks like? Read Neogen Downtime and Results.
Ready to find your best skin treatment?
Neogen Face Lift in Westminster, CO
iCRYO Westminster is at 14613 Orchard Pkwy #200, Westminster, CO 80023, just off I-25 with free parking. We welcome clients from Broomfield, Thornton, Northglenn, Arvada, Federal Heights and north Denver.
Questions? Call (720) 222-0224.
Neogen Face Lift FAQs
Is Neogen better than microneedling?
They work differently. Microneedling creates tiny punctures to trigger collagen. Neogen heats the skin evenly with plasma, which can address texture, tone, lines and laxity together. Neogen is often more powerful per session.
Is Neogen better than CO2 laser?
CO2 laser is very powerful but usually involves more downtime and higher risk. Neogen offers significant results with adjustable downtime, and the treated skin stays in place as a natural dressing while you heal.
Which treatment has the least downtime?
Microneedling usually has the shortest downtime. Neogen's downtime depends on intensity, and CO2 laser typically has the longest.
Can Neogen treat the eyelids?
Yes. Neogen can be used around the eyes, an area that many other resurfacing treatments avoid.
iCRYO Westminster Team
The iCRYO Westminster team helps clients across the north Denver metro look and feel their best.
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Learn more about Neogen Face Lift in Westminster, CO
View the Neogen Face Lift service page →