Where Medical Expertise Meets Aesthetic Innovation
At MQ Institute, skin rejuvenation goes beyond the surface. Our comprehensive, physician-directed approach combines advanced technology with personalized treatment plans to enhance skin health, restore radiance, and achieve natural-looking results.
From microneedling and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments to IPL photofacials, fractional laser resurfacing, and CO₂ laser treatments, our services are designed to address fine lines, uneven pigmentation, sun damage, acne scars, and changes in skin texture.
Each treatment is carefully selected based on individual skin concerns, overall health, and aesthetic goals, with an emphasis on safety, long-term skin health, and natural-looking rejuvenation.
Microneedling
Professional microneedling creates controlled microchannels in the skin to stimulate the body’s natural skin-remodeling response. Treatment can be customized to improve the appearance of concerns such as uneven texture, fine lines and acne scarring while supporting smoother, healthier-looking skin.
PRP Microneedling
PRP microneedling combines microneedling with platelet-rich plasma prepared from the patient’s own blood. Patients should be evaluated individually to determine whether PRP is appropriate for their skin and treatment goals.
IPL PhotofacialIPL uses controlled pulses of light to target selected pigmentation and vascular concerns. Treatments are customized according to the patient’s skin type, treatment area and individual goals.
Fractional Laser SurfacingFractional laser resurfacing treats targeted portions of the skin to promote skin renewal while preserving surrounding areas. Depending on the specific device and treatment settings, it may be used to improve concerns such as texture, fine lines, sun damage, pigmentation and scars.
CO₂ Laser Surfacing
Advanced Resurfacing for More Significant Skin Renewal.
CO₂ laser resurfacing provides a more intensive resurfacing option for appropriately selected patients. Treatment can address concerns such as skin texture, lines, photodamage and certain scars. Treatment depth, recovery and expected results vary by patient and treatment settings.
Obagi® Medical Skincare
Professional Skincare. Personalized for Your Skin.
MQ Institute offers Obagi Medical skincare as part of individualized skin-health programs. Our providers can recommend an at-home regimen based on the patient’s skin, goals and concerns, including aging skin, discoloration, fine lines, blemishes, dehydration and overall skin health.
Skin Care FAQs
Which skin rejuvenation treatment is right for me?
The best starting point is an assessment of your skin, health history, concerns and recovery preferences. Your clinician can compare professional treatments and at-home options, including when a procedure may not be appropriate.
What is the difference between microneedling, IPL and laser resurfacing?
Microneedling uses fine needles to trigger skin remodeling. IPL uses pulses of light for selected pigment and vascular concerns. Laser resurfacing uses laser energy to treat the skin. Their uses, suitability, intensity and recovery differ.
What can help improve acne scars and uneven texture?
Microneedling and certain resurfacing treatments may improve the appearance of selected scars or texture concerns. Recommendations depend on the scar type, your skin and the device. Active acne may need separate management, and complete scar removal is not promised.
Can IPL help with sun spots and redness?
IPL may address selected pigment and vascular concerns in suitable patients. Your clinician should assess the cause of discoloration or redness before treatment. Not all dark patches respond to the same approach, and IPL is not appropriate for every skin tone or condition.
What is the difference between fractional and CO₂ laser resurfacing?
“Fractional” describes treating portions of the skin while leaving surrounding tissue untreated. “CO₂” describes a type of laser that can also operate fractionally. Ask which device and treatment mode are proposed and what that means for your concern, risks and recovery.
How many microneedling or laser sessions will I need?
The number and spacing depend on the treatment, device, concern, intensity and your response. Ask for an individual course and when progress will be reassessed rather than assuming a fixed package.
How much downtime should I expect?
It depends on the exact procedure and settings. Some treatments involve shorter periods of redness or sensitivity; more intensive resurfacing can involve peeling, wound care and longer healing. Review recovery and time away from activities before scheduling.
Do microneedling, IPL or laser treatments hurt?
Sensation varies with the procedure, intensity and individual sensitivity. Ask what comfort or anesthesia measures are used and what discomfort to expect during treatment and recovery.
When will I see results, and how long will they last?
Timing varies. Some changes appear sooner; remodeling and healing may take longer. Durability depends on the procedure, your skin, ongoing aging, sun exposure and home care. No result or duration is guaranteed.
How should I prepare, and when can I wear makeup again?
Follow instructions specific to your procedure. Your clinician will advise on sun exposure, skincare products, medicines, makeup and activity. Do not stop prescribed medicines or restart potentially irritating products without appropriate guidance.
Are these treatments suitable for darker skin tones?
Suitability depends on the procedure, device, settings, skin tone and history of pigment changes. Some treatments can cause darkening or lightening of the skin. Choose a clinician experienced with your skin type and ask about appropriate alternatives.
What is PRP microneedling, and is it FDA-approved?
It combines microneedling with platelet-rich plasma prepared from your own blood. FDA has not authorized microneedling devices to deliver PRP into the skin. Ask about the proposed procedure, available evidence, risks and current availability before considering treatment.
What are the possible side effects?
Risks vary by procedure and may include redness, swelling, tenderness, discomfort, peeling or bleeding, as well as burns, infection, pigment changes or scarring. Your clinician will review treatment-specific risks and what to do if a concern arises.
Can I start with an at-home skincare routine?
Yes. A consultation can focus on home care and whether products such as Obagi Medical skincare may suit your needs. A procedure is not always necessary.
How much do microneedling, IPL and laser treatments cost?
Cost depends on the procedure, area, recommended course and aftercare. Request a written estimate and confirm consultation fees, package terms, product costs and follow-up inclusions before committing.
Do you offer skin treatments near Annapolis or Baltimore?
MQ Institute’s Severna Park location serves patients from Annapolis, Baltimore and surrounding Maryland communities. Contact the practice to confirm availability of the specific skin treatment you are considering.
Start Looking Younger Today!
Let us help define your skin care goals and begin a treatment schedule today.
expert
clinical team
personalized
plans
natural looking results
compliant &
medical-grade
more than a
medical visit
A Destination for
Your Best Self.
wellness beauty balance
a brighter you.
OUR CLINICAL TEAM
Expert Care.
A Team You Can Trust.
Our experienced team of nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and support staff work together under the medical direction of Dr. Emily MacQuaid to deliver exceptional, personalized care.
our medical director
Emily MacQuaid, MD, FACS
fellowship trained surgeon
Dr. MacQuaid provides medical leadership
and helps establish the clinical standards
and treatment philosophy at MQ Institute.
our approach![]()
Our Locations
Severna Park, MD
479 Jumpers Hole Road
Suite 106
Severna Park, MD 21146
BOOK in severna park
for maryland patients
BOOK telehealth in ca
for CALIFORNIA Patients
© 2026 MQ Institute. All rights reserved. New Patient Paperwork Privacy Terms Good Faith Estimate
A Healthier, Brighter You.






© 2026 MQ Institute. All rights reserved. New Patient Paperwork Privacy Terms Good Faith Estimate
A Healthier, Brighter You.
Where Medical Expertise Meets Aesthetic Innovation
At MQ Institute, skin rejuvenation goes beyond the surface. Our comprehensive, physician-directed approach combines advanced technology with personalized treatment plans to enhance skin health, restore radiance, and achieve natural-looking results.
From microneedling and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments to IPL photofacials, fractional laser resurfacing, and CO₂ laser treatments, our services are designed to address fine lines, uneven pigmentation, sun damage, acne scars, and changes in skin texture.
Each treatment is carefully selected based on individual skin concerns, overall health, and aesthetic goals, with an emphasis on safety, long-term skin health, and natural-looking rejuvenation.

Professional microneedling creates controlled microchannels in the skin to stimulate the body’s natural skin-remodeling response. Treatment can be customized to improve the appearance of concerns such as uneven texture, fine lines and acne scarring while supporting smoother, healthier-looking skin.

PRP microneedling combines microneedling with platelet-rich plasma prepared from the patient’s own blood. Patients should be evaluated individually to determine whether PRP is appropriate for their skin and treatment goals.

IPL uses controlled pulses of light to target selected pigmentation and vascular concerns. Treatments are customized according to the patient’s skin type, treatment area and individual goals.

Fractional laser resurfacing treats targeted portions of the skin to promote skin renewal while preserving surrounding areas. Depending on the specific device and treatment settings, it may be used to improve concerns such as texture, fine lines, sun damage, pigmentation and scars.
CO₂ Laser Surfacing
Advanced Resurfacing for More Significant Skin Renewal.

CO₂ laser resurfacing provides a more intensive resurfacing option for appropriately selected patients. Treatment can address concerns such as skin texture, lines, photodamage and certain scars. Treatment depth, recovery and expected results vary by patient and treatment settings.
Obagi® Medical Skincare
Professional Skincare.
Personalized for Your Skin.

MQ Institute offers Obagi Medical skincare as part of individualized skin-health programs. Our providers can recommend an at-home regimen based on the patient’s skin, goals and concerns, including aging skin, discoloration, fine lines, blemishes, dehydration and overall skin health.
Skin Care FAQs
Which skin rejuvenation treatment is right for me?
The best starting point is an assessment of your skin, health history, concerns and recovery preferences. Your clinician can compare professional treatments and at-home options, including when a procedure may not be appropriate.
What is the difference between microneedling, IPL and laser resurfacing?
Microneedling uses fine needles to trigger skin remodeling. IPL uses pulses of light for selected pigment and vascular concerns. Laser resurfacing uses laser energy to treat the skin. Their uses, suitability, intensity and recovery differ.
What can help improve acne scars and uneven texture?
Microneedling and certain resurfacing treatments may improve the appearance of selected scars or texture concerns. Recommendations depend on the scar type, your skin and the device. Active acne may need separate management, and complete scar removal is not promised.
Can IPL help with sun spots and redness?
IPL may address selected pigment and vascular concerns in suitable patients. Your clinician should assess the cause of discoloration or redness before treatment. Not all dark patches respond to the same approach, and IPL is not appropriate for every skin tone or condition.
What is the difference between fractional and CO₂ laser resurfacing?
“Fractional” describes treating portions of the skin while leaving surrounding tissue untreated. “CO₂” describes a type of laser that can also operate fractionally. Ask which device and treatment mode are proposed and what that means for your concern, risks and recovery.
How many microneedling or laser sessions will I need?
The number and spacing depend on the treatment, device, concern, intensity and your response. Ask for an individual course and when progress will be reassessed rather than assuming a fixed package.
How much downtime should I expect?
It depends on the exact procedure and settings. Some treatments involve shorter periods of redness or sensitivity; more intensive resurfacing can involve peeling, wound care and longer healing. Review recovery and time away from activities before scheduling.
Do microneedling, IPL or laser treatments hurt?
Sensation varies with the procedure, intensity and individual sensitivity. Ask what comfort or anesthesia measures are used and what discomfort to expect during treatment and recovery.
When will I see results, and how long will they last?
Timing varies. Some changes appear sooner; remodeling and healing may take longer. Durability depends on the procedure, your skin, ongoing aging, sun exposure and home care. No result or duration is guaranteed.
How should I prepare, and when can I wear makeup again?
Follow instructions specific to your procedure. Your clinician will advise on sun exposure, skincare products, medicines, makeup and activity. Do not stop prescribed medicines or restart potentially irritating products without appropriate guidance.
Are these treatments suitable for darker skin tones?
Suitability depends on the procedure, device, settings, skin tone and history of pigment changes. Some treatments can cause darkening or lightening of the skin. Choose a clinician experienced with your skin type and ask about appropriate alternatives.
What is PRP microneedling, and is it FDA-approved?
It combines microneedling with platelet-rich plasma prepared from your own blood. FDA has not authorized microneedling devices to deliver PRP into the skin. Ask about the proposed procedure, available evidence, risks and current availability before considering treatment.
What are the possible side effects?
Risks vary by procedure and may include redness, swelling, tenderness, discomfort, peeling or bleeding, as well as burns, infection, pigment changes or scarring. Your clinician will review treatment-specific risks and what to do if a concern arises.
Can I start with an at-home skincare routine?
Yes. A consultation can focus on home care and whether products such as Obagi Medical skincare may suit your needs. A procedure is not always necessary.
How much do microneedling, IPL and laser treatments cost?
Cost depends on the procedure, area, recommended course and aftercare. Request a written estimate and confirm consultation fees, package terms, product costs and follow-up inclusions before committing.
Do you offer skin treatments near Annapolis or Baltimore?
MQ Institute’s Severna Park location serves patients from Annapolis, Baltimore and surrounding Maryland communities. Contact the practice to confirm availability of the specific skin treatment you are considering.
Start Looking Younger Today!
Let us help define your skin care goals and begin a treatment schedule today.



