AquaGold Fine Touch is a minimally invasive microchannel injector system that delivers micro-Botox, dermal fillers, and other skin-boosting treatments, such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C serum, directly into the skin. Its 24-karat gold-plated microneedles create tiny channels that stimulate collagen production and enable the precise delivery of customized formulations, brightening the complexion, boosting hydration, and softening the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and enlarged pores. With zero downtime and results that can last up to six months, it’s easy to see why AquaGold has become one of the most requested non-invasive facial treatments at Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

Often called the “super facial” or the “lunchtime facial,” AquaGold uses microneedles thinner than a human hair to bypass the outer skin layer and deliver revitalizing ingredients — retinol, antioxidants, stem cells, growth factors, peptides, and neuromodulator injections such as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin — directly into the dermis without discomfort. Because the treatment is fully customizable, a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green can tailor each AquaGold facial to a patient’s unique skin concerns and aesthetic goals, whether that means refining pore size, evening out skin tone, or restoring lost elasticity.

What is AquaGold microneedling?

AquaGold Fine Touch is not a traditional microneedling device but an innovative microinfusion system that combines microneedling with customized ingredient delivery. The device’s 24-karat gold-plated microneedles treat the face, neck, hands, and décolletage in just 15 minutes, penetrating up to 600 microns into the dermis — deeper than most traditional devices — and delivering 1,200 to 2,000 microinjections per minute. Dr. Green selects each patient’s microinfusion blend, which may include hyaluronic acid, Botox, dermal fillers, or antioxidants, based on their specific skin concerns, leaving the skin glowing with a natural-looking, more youthful appearance that can last up to six months.

But how does AquaGold microneedling work? AquaGold uses ultra-fine, hollow, gold-plated microneedles to create microchannels in the skin and deliver a customized blend of rejuvenating ingredients directly into the upper dermis. The gold coating is hypoallergenic, minimizing irritation even on sensitive skin. The microchanneling process also activates the skin’s natural renewal response, encouraging both collagen and elastin production. By combining precise microchannel creation with targeted ingredient delivery in a single step, AquaGold leaves skin smoother, more hydrated, and refreshed without the extended recovery associated with more aggressive resurfacing treatments.

18-24 year old woman treated with AquaGold & Restylane to tear troughs and lips

Benefits of AquaGold Fine Touch

AquaGold Fine Touch pairs skin renewal with enhanced ingredient absorption, delivering visible improvements in skin tone, texture, and hydration. The treatment diminishes fine lines, tightens and smooths skin, refines enlarged pores, softens acne scars, balances pigmentation, and boosts elasticity. Because the microinjector delivers ingredients directly into the upper dermis, patients see benefits that topical products alone cannot achieve. The treatment’s gentle design makes it well-suited for sensitive areas and results in virtually no downtime.

What is Traditional Microneedling?

Traditional microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses a sterile microneedling device to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and triggering the body’s natural healing response. This technique improves skin texture and tone, including pore size, fine lines, wrinkles, and melasma. It can be enhanced with a specialized serum, such as a depigmentation serum or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), applied immediately after treatment.

PRP is an autologous serum derived from a patient’s blood, then centrifuged to isolate growth factor-rich plasma that amplifies microneedling’s rejuvenating effects. Most patients need at least three sessions, spaced about four weeks apart. Treatment should always be performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green to ensure safe, effective results.

The difference between AquaGold and traditional microneedling

AquaGold Fine Touch is a microinfusion system that uses microneedles thinner than a strand of human hair to deliver peptides, vitamin C, neuromodulator injections such as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin, and dermal fillers such as Belotero, Juvederm, and Restylane directly into the dermis, providing immediate hydration with results lasting up to six months and no downtime. Traditional microneedling, by contrast, relies primarily on controlled epidermal trauma to stimulate collagen production. However, it can be paired with topical serums such as PRP or a depigmenting serum to target hyperpigmentation, melasma, and uneven skin tone.

Traditional microneedling devices use needles that penetrate up to 2.5 mm deep, while AquaGold’s needles reach only about 0.6 mm, which is why AquaGold typically involves less downtime. Dr. Green offers both AquaGold and traditional microneedling at her Upper East Side practice and will help determine which treatment best suits your skin type and goals.

What to Expect During and After Your AquaGold Microneedling Procedure

How long an AquaGold microneedling procedure takes

An AquaGold treatment is remarkably efficient, with an experienced provider like Dr. Green typically completing the entire procedure in about 15 minutes. Before treatment begins, the skin is cleansed, and the microinfusion blend is prepared to match your specific goals. The device is then gently guided over the treatment area, delivering thousands of microinjections without the need for numbing cream in most cases. Because the process is so quick and comfortable, many patients schedule their AquaGold facial during a lunch break and head straight back to work or their routine afterward. Dr. Green recommends avoiding strenuous exercise and direct sun exposure for the first 24 hours to help minimize the risk of swelling or irritation in the treated area.

Recovery/downtime after AquaGold

One of AquaGold’s greatest advantages over more invasive skin treatments is its virtually no downtime, allowing patients to resume most normal activities immediately. Some mild redness or slight puffiness in the treated area is common right after the procedure, but it typically fades within a few hours. Dr. Green recommends keeping a “fresh face” — free of makeup, sunscreen, and other topical products — for 24 hours after treatment so the microinfusions can fully absorb while the microchannels remain open. She may also recommend a personalized skincare routine using her MGSKINLABs products to support healing and help extend your results in the days and weeks that follow.

When you see results after AquaGold microneedling

Many patients notice an immediate glow right after their AquaGold facial, thanks to the instant hydration from the microinfusions. More visible improvements in hydration, smoothness, and overall radiance typically appear within the first few days as the infused ingredients continue working beneath the skin’s surface. Over the following one to two weeks, as collagen production ramps up and the skin naturally regenerates, texture becomes noticeably more refined, pores appear smaller, and tone grows more even. Because every AquaGold treatment is customized, the exact timeline can vary depending on the ingredient blend used and each patient’s individual skin concerns. Dr. Green sets clear, personalized expectations during your consultation.

How long AquaGold microneedling results last

AquaGold’s rejuvenating effects can last up to six months, making it one of the longer-lasting non-invasive facial treatments available. Patients with more significant concerns, such as pronounced acne scarring or uneven texture, may benefit from a series of sessions spaced at least four weeks apart to build on their results over time. How long your results last also depends on lifestyle factors such as sun protection, hydration, and your at-home skincare routine. For this reason, Dr. Green often develops a personalized maintenance plan to help each patient extend and preserve their outcomes.

How often you should get AquaGold microneedling done

Because AquaGold delivers noticeable rejuvenation after a single session, many patients start with one treatment to address a specific concern or prepare for a special event. For ongoing maintenance, most return for touch-ups two to three times a year, spacing sessions several weeks apart to allow new collagen to form between treatments. Patients with more significant skin concerns may benefit from a slightly more frequent schedule initially, before transitioning to periodic maintenance visits. During your consultation, Dr. Green will help design a treatment schedule tailored to your specific skin concerns, goals, and how your skin responds over time.

Side effects of AquaGold microneedling

Because AquaGold delivers dermal fillers and Botox via microinfusion rather than direct injection, it carries a low risk of complications such as bleeding or bruising. The most common side effects are mild redness and swelling that typically resolve within a few hours, with occasional pinpoint bleeding or temporary dryness in patients with sensitive skin. Dr. Green often recommends gentle, hydrating aftercare products, such as the Hydra Repair serum from her MGSKINLABs line, to support healing and minimize irritation.

Who is a good candidate for AquaGold microneedling?

AquaGold Fine Touch suits men and women of all skin types and tones seeking subtle yet noticeable rejuvenation without the downtime of more invasive procedures. Ideal candidates include those with mild acne scars, uneven skin texture, enlarged pores, dullness, dehydration, or early signs of aging, such as fine lines and loss of radiance. Because the treatment is so gentle, it’s also a popular choice for patients with sensitive skin who want visible results without the irritation that can come with more aggressive resurfacing options. AquaGold is especially well-suited for anyone preparing for a wedding, photoshoot, or other special event, since it delivers an instant, refreshed glow with no recovery time between the treatment and the occasion.

AquaGold can also be a great option for patients who aren’t ready for more invasive procedures such as deep chemical peels, laser resurfacing, or surgical treatments but still want to see meaningful improvement in their skin’s overall health and appearance. Because the treatment is fully customizable, it can be tailored for younger patients focused on prevention and maintenance, as well as for more mature patients looking to address early signs of aging alongside hydration and texture concerns. During your consultation, Dr. Green will evaluate your skin concerns, medical history, and aesthetic goals to determine whether AquaGold is the right fit for you or whether a different treatment or combination approach would better address your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About AquaGold Microneedling

What is Microchanneling?

Microchanneling is a related cosmetic procedure that uses fine needles to stimulate collagen production. Unlike microneedling, it does not cause epidermal trauma and is typically more superficial, with little to no downtime. It can improve the appearance of enlarged pores and fine lines, while microneedling addresses a broader range of skin texture and tone concerns. Depending on state regulations, microchanneling may be performed by aestheticians, whereas true microneedling and AquaGold facials can be performed only by licensed medical professionals like Dr. Green.

Is AquaGold FDA-Approved?

AquaGold Fine Touch is an FDA-approved microinfusion system intended solely for professional use. Because the treatment causes controlled epidermal trauma, it is considered a medical cosmetic procedure that can be performed only by a licensed medical professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green, who has over 25 years of experience and is consistently recognized as one of New York’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors.

Is AquaGold safe for all skin types?

Yes. AquaGold Fine Touch is safe for all skin types and tones, including sensitive skin, thanks to its gentle application and hypoallergenic, gold-plated microneedles. During your consultation, Dr. Green will review your skin type, medical history, and cosmetic goals to ensure the treatment is tailored to your needs.

Is AquaGold microneedling painful?

No, AquaGold is not a painful treatment. Its fine, short micro-needles make the procedure comfortable enough that many patients skip numbing cream altogether. Those with sensitive skin may request that a topical numbing cream be applied to the treatment area one hour beforehand. When you arrive at Dr. Green’s Upper East Side office, the numbing cream will be removed and the skin sterilized before your AquaGold facial. There is no downtime afterward.

How deep does AquaGold go?

AquaGold’s microneedles penetrate just beneath the skin’s surface, delivering treatment to the upper dermis, where collagen and elastin are produced. This controlled depth is much shallower than that of more aggressive resurfacing treatments, resulting in less trauma and no lengthy recovery. It still allows infused ingredients, such as hydrating serums, antioxidants, and Botox, to reach the layers where they’re most effective — making AquaGold safe even for delicate areas like the under-eye, neck, and décolletage.

Is AquaGold microneedling good for acne scars?

AquaGold can be an effective option for mild to moderate acne scars because its microchannels deliver a personalized blend of hydrating, skin-repairing ingredients into the dermis, smoothing texture and stimulating new collagen production. For deeper or more severe scarring, Dr. Green may recommend combining AquaGold with laser treatments, chemical peels, or microneedling with platelet-rich plasma to achieve more dramatic improvement.

What products are commonly used with AquaGold?

AquaGold’s microinfusion system can be customized with a wide range of ingredients to match a patient’s goals. Common additions include neuromodulator injections such as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin; dermal fillers such as Juvederm, Belotero, and Restylane; and skin-boosting formulations such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, peptides, antioxidants, growth factors, and stem cells. Dr. Green selects and blends these microinfusions based on each patient’s skin concerns, whether that’s hydration, fine lines, or uneven skin tone, ensuring a treatment tailored to your skin.

Does AquaGold replace Botox?

AquaGold is not a substitute for Botox but a complementary treatment. Botox remains the gold standard for treating dynamic fine lines caused by repeated facial expressions. It works by relaxing the facial muscles responsible for movement, with results lasting up to four months. AquaGold, on the other hand, focuses on improving overall skin quality — hydration, texture, and radiance — and can even deliver Botox as one of its customizable microinfusions. Dr. Green, an Allergan Platinum injector known for some of the best Botox injections in NYC, often incorporates both treatments into a comprehensive rejuvenation plan for patients seeking natural, long-lasting results.

Can dermal fillers be used with AquaGold?

Yes. Dermal fillers such as Belotero, Juvederm, and Restylane are popular microinfusion options via AquaGold, helping soften fine lines and enlarged pores for a subtle, natural-looking result across the treatment area. For more significant volume correction, direct filler injections can be combined with AquaGold as part of a broader treatment plan. Dr. Green will help select the right fillers based on your facial structure and aesthetic goals.

Is AquaGold microneedling worth the cost compared to regular microneedling?

The cost of AquaGold varies based on the type and amount of microinfusion used, the treatment area, and the number of sessions needed. It will be confirmed during your consultation with Dr. Green. Compared to traditional microneedling, AquaGold tends to have a higher per-session price due to its customizable microinfusions. Still, many patients find it worthwhile given its immediate glow, minimal downtime, and results that can last up to six months. Ultimately, neither treatment is inherently “better” than the other — the right choice depends on your skin type, concerns, and goals, which Dr. Green will help you determine.

What should I avoid before AquaGold treatment?

Before AquaGold microneedling, patients should stop taking blood-thinning medications and supplements, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, and avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours to reduce the risk of bruising. Strong skincare ingredients, such as retinoids and glycolic acids, should be paused 24 hours beforehand, and excessive sun exposure or tanning should be avoided. If you have an active breakout or skin infection in the treatment area, your appointment should be rescheduled.

How soon can I wear makeup after AquaGold?

It’s best to avoid makeup for at least 24 hours after your AquaGold facial to allow the microchannels to close naturally and the infused ingredients to absorb fully. Applying makeup too soon can increase the risk of irritation or clogged pores while the skin is still healing. Dr. Green may recommend a specific post-treatment routine to help maintain your results.

What skincare should I use after AquaGold?

Dr. Green recommends avoiding washing the treatment area for 24 hours after AquaGold to allow the microinfusions to absorb, and skipping oil-based makeup during that window. For at least 48 hours, patients should use gentle, hydrating products and avoid exfoliating ingredients such as retinol, AHAs, and BHAs. Dr. Green will review your current skincare routine and recommend products best suited to your skin type and goals.

Combining AquaGold Fine Touch Treatment with Other Non-Invasive Cosmetic Procedures

Because AquaGold requires no downtime, it pairs easily with other non-invasive treatments to enhance results. Pairing AquaGold with the Clear + Brilliant laser can improve skin tone and brightness, while Botox or dermal fillers address deeper wrinkles and volume loss. Many patients also schedule AquaGold alongside skin-tightening treatments like Vivace or Thermage for more comprehensive rejuvenation. During your consultation, Dr. Green will tailor a treatment plan to meet your specific goals.

Can Aestheticians Use AquaGold Treatment?

No. Because AquaGold involves microneedle skin punctures, it’s classified as a medical cosmetic procedure that only licensed medical professionals, such as board-certified dermatologists, may perform. Preparing the microinfusions also requires extensive medical knowledge to ensure each patient’s serum is safe and effective. This is why Dr. Green — recognized as one of New York’s top dermatologists with over 25 years of experience — personally administers every AquaGold facial at her practice.

Where Can I Get AquaGold Fine Touch?

AquaGold Fine Touch should be administered only by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Michele Green, who has over 25 years of experience delivering top non-invasive facial treatments to some of the world’s most discerning patients. Dr. Green’s private dermatology practice is located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York.

55-64 year old man, Aquagold w/ Botox – 1 month post treatment

Is AquaGold Better Than Microneedling?

Neither AquaGold nor traditional microneedling is inherently “better.” AquaGold is an innovative microinfusion system that brightens skin and improves hydration and texture, while microneedling is a collagen-induction therapy that enhances tone, texture, and elasticity. The ideal treatment depends on a professional assessment of your skin type, condition, and aesthetic goals. During your consultation, Dr. Green will review your medical history and skin, then help you identify the best combination of in-office treatments and skincare tailored to your needs.

What Is the Difference Between Morpheus 8 and AquaGold?

Morpheus 8 is a fractional radiofrequency microneedling device that penetrates deeper into the dermis and subdermal tissue to promote collagen production, tighten skin, and contour the face. It is better suited for patients with skin laxity or deeper wrinkles. Because it targets deeper layers, Morpheus 8 typically requires 2 to 5 days of downtime, and an initial series of three treatments spaced about four weeks apart is recommended for optimal results.

AquaGold Fine Touch, by comparison, is a microchannel microinjector focused on the skin’s surface that improves hydration, refines enlarged pores, and softens fine lines through customized microinfusions of Botox, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants. It is often called a “lunchtime facial” for its lack of downtime.

Dr. Green also offers Vivace RF microneedling at her dermatology practice on NYC’s Upper East Side. Vivace RF Microneedling is an FDA-approved device from Aesthetics Biomedical. It uses the latest technology to deliver optimal results and a comfortable experience for patients. Its adjustable needles can be set in 0.1-millimeter increments, allowing Dr. Green to provide highly precise, controlled treatments. During your consultation, Dr. Green will collaborate with you to create a personalized rejuvenation plan that addresses your concerns and helps you achieve your aesthetic goals, whether through Aquagold Fine Touch or Vivace microneedling.

Start Your AquaGold Microneedling Journey with Dr. Green Today

AquaGold Fine Touch is an innovative, customizable microinfusion treatment that combines the collagen-stimulating benefits of microneedling with the immediate hydration and radiance of ingredients such as Botox, dermal fillers, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C — all delivered with zero downtime. Whether you’re hoping to soften fine lines, refine enlarged pores, fade acne scars, or simply achieve a healthy glow before a special event, AquaGold offers a quick, virtually painless way to refresh your complexion. The results speak for themselves when an expert like Dr. Michele Green performs the treatment.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning patients with the finest non-invasive skin treatments, including AquaGold Fine Touch microneedling. She takes a holistic, less-is-more approach to facial rejuvenation, customizing each treatment plan to each patient’s skin type, concerns, and aesthetic goals. She is consistently recognized as one of New York City’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors. To begin your AquaGold treatment today, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green by calling her NYC office at 212-535-3088 or contacting us online.