Last updated January 2024

What is skin needling?

Skin needling is a microneedling procedure that involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries stimulate the natural healing process, leading to increased production of collagen and elastin, essential proteins for skin structure and elasticity. The procedure is effective in addressing various skin concerns such as acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Minimally invasive, skin needling has a short downtime compared to more aggressive treatments. It has gained popularity as a non-surgical option for improving skin texture and appearance.

The infusion of a customised cocktail of hyaluronic acid, vitamins and peptides into the skin through the microchannels allows the treatment to be tailored to all skin types and conditions.

What does skin needling do and how does it work?

Skin needling creates controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface using fine needles attached to a motorised skin needling pen. The primary goal of this technique is to stimulate the skin’s natural healing process. Additionally, a combination of hyaluronic acid, vitamins and peptides is infused into the skin to enhance the benefits of the procedure and target specific skin concerns.

The micro-injuries created during skin needling create temporary channels in the skin, allowing for better absorption of topical products. By infusing active ingredients directly to the treated areas, they can penetrate more deeply into the skin, maximising their effectiveness. This process allows for a more targeted and intensified delivery of active ingredients, such as vitamins, peptides, or hyaluronic acid, to nourish and support the skin’s healing and rejuvenation. The combination of ingredients infused varies for each person, tailoring it to their particular skin concern.

As the skin heals from these micro-injuries, there is an increased production of collagen and elastin which are essential proteins for maintaining skin structure and elasticity.

What is skin needling good for?

Skin needling, or microneedling, can be used to treat skin concerns such as acne scars, improve fine lines and wrinkles and improve general skin quality and texture, helping you achieve glowing skin.

In addition to stimulating collagen and elastin for overall skin rejuvenation and anti-ageing benefits, skin needling can be used to improve skin conditions such as:

What areas can skin needling treat?

For optimal results, skin needling is performed to the entire face rather than only focussing on small areas of concern. In instances where there are specific concerns related to areas such as the periocular region or localised scarring, our approach involves meticulous attention to these particular areas, whilst performing an overall facial treatment.

Who is a suitable candidate for skin needling?

Skin needling is particularly suited to those looking to improve skin texture and tightness and can be used on all skin tones from light to dark. A good candidate for skin needling is someone who is looking to achieve one or more of the following:

  • Stimulate collagen and elastin production
  • Improve overall skin tone and texture
  • Reduce the appearance of mild to moderate acne scars
  • Lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Decrease pigmentation

With many benefits, skin needling is suited to a variety of skin conditions and concerns.

Who is not a suitable candidate for skin needling?

You may not be suitable for skin needling if you have active acne, dermatitis, a clotting or bleeding disorder, broken blood vessels, rosacea, pregnant or breastfeeding.

A consultation with one of our practitioners will help you determine your suitability for treatment.

What to do before skin needling

Skin preparation with the use of at home skin care may be recommended for up to 2 to 4 weeks prior to the commencement of the procedure. A similar skin care regime may also be recommended for up to 6 months post-treatment to aid healthy collagen production and the rejuvenation of the skin.

Prepping the skin with the appropriate skin care ingredients helps to strengthen and encourage cell turnover, with the aim of optimising your results.

There are a number of products and treatments that you should avoid in the weeks leading up to your appointment. These include:

  • Accutane – You should avoid this for 6 months prior to the procedure
  • Topical agents that increase skin sensitivity such as retinoids or exfoliants – You should avoid these for a week prior to your appointment
  • Anti-inflammatory medication – You should avoid this for 3 days prior because this can increase the risk of excessive bleeding. Do not cease any medication without consulting your prescribing doctor.
  • Prolonged sun exposure
  • Waxing or shaving the area to be treated 7 days prior must be avoided
  • Blood thinning agents – You should avoid these for a week prior to the procedure as this will increase the risk of bruising. Please consult your doctor before stopping any prescription medications.

What to expect during skin needling treatment

Skin needling involves having your skin cleansed and photographed, followed by a numbing cream applied to the skin. Next, a mild peel is performed to lightly exfoliate the skin in preparation for the skin needling. 

Based upon the skin concerns being treated, the practitioner will create a customised blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamins and peptides to be infused during the procedure. This blend is placed on the skin and the skin needling commences. 

The depth of penetration of the needles can be adjusted by the practitioner from 0.2mm to 2.5mm depending on the skin concern being treated, the condition of the skin (including thickness of skin, age and overall health), and the area of the face being treated. Each area of the face is treated with several passess of the skin needling pen, with additional passes being performed over areas of particular concern.

Most treatments are very tolerable and a slight scratchy sensation can be felt.   

The treatment concludes with the application of a face mask designed to soothe the skin and reduce redness. This face mask is left to dry for a few minutes before being removed by the practitioner.

What to do after skin needling

Immediately after treatment, your skin may be slightly red or flushed which usually subsides within 24 hours. It is very common to feel initial skin tightening and mild flaking in the days following your skin needling treatment. Once the redness and flaking subsides your skin will feel softer and appear more refined. 

You may also notice that there is light exfoliation and light shedding of the skin as it heals. We recommend waiting at least 7 days after your skin needling treatment before you reintroduce any skin care containing exfoliating ingredients. Your practitioner will provide you with advice on when you can start your active skin care routine, as this can vary depending on the current health of your skin.

Your practitioner will apply aftercare products to your skin needling treatment, then you should avoid touching your skin or using any skin care products for 24 hours. To avoid infection, you should wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup after having a skin needling treatment. 

A gentle cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen can be used 24 hours following your treatment. Avoid direct sun exposure for 3 days before and 3 days after, and avoid any activity that will cause you to sweat such as exercise, saunas or spas.

Avoid products that contain active ingredients like retinol, AHA, BHA and Vitamin C for 7 days. Our practitioners may advise you to follow a specific skin care routine to help with the healing process.

What are the risks and side effects associated with skin needling?

Skin needling may present certain side effects. It’s essential to be aware of potential risks to make informed decisions about the procedure. Some of these include:

  • Redness and swelling: Temporary redness and swelling are common immediately after the treatment and usually subside within 24hrs.
  • Mild peeling or flaking: The treated skin may peel or flake during the healing process. This occurrence is a normal response to the stimulation of the skin’s renewal.
  • Tightness: Some individuals may experience a sensation of tightness in the treated area, which is a normal part of the healing process as the skin regenerates.
  • Itching: Itching can occur during the healing phase, but it’s crucial not to scratch the treated area to avoid any disruption to the recovery process.
  • Bruising: Whilst very rare, some individuals may experience light bruising, particularly in sensitive areas.
  • Infection: Infection, although very rare, is considered a likely side effect. The risk can be minimised by following the practitioner’s aftercare instructions, such as not applying skin care or makeup and not touching the treated area for 24 hours following treatment.·        

Whilst the most common side effects of skin needling are mild in severity and subside quickly, it is important to be aware of any potential side effects and follow recommended aftercare guidelines to minimise any risks associated with the treatment.

How long does skin needling take?

Skin needling, or microneedling, treatment appointments will have you in the clinic for a little over an hour from start to finish. This time includes your pre-treatment photos, skin scan, facial cleanse, pre-peel, application of topical anaesthetic cream, skin needling procedure, vitamin burst mask and application of any topical serums as required.

How long does skin needling take to heal?

The redness which is present immediately following skin needling is usually reduced within 24 hours. Tightness may be felt, and there may be mild flaking or peeling for approximately 7 days as the skin heals.

Skin needling compared with RF needling

Skin needling and RF needling are two distinct approaches to skin rejuvenation, each offering unique benefits and outcomes. Primarily, the differences are in three key areas; methodology, treatment depth and treatment focus. Understanding their differences is essential when considering these procedures.

Methodology

Skin needling

Involves the use of microneedles to create controlled micro-injuries, promoting collagen synthesis. Vitamins and peptides, customised to address the patient’s skin concerns, are infused into the skin through these microchannels to deliver them directly to the skin where their beneficial effects are needed. This targeted approach enhances the effectiveness of the treatment in addressing specific skin concerns such as fine lines, large pores and pigmentation.

RF needling

Combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy to deliver controlled heat to deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production for skin tightening. The thermal effects of RF energy help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by promoting collagen growth and improving skin laxity.

Treatment depth

Skin needling

Penetrates up to 2.5mm into the skin, primarily targeting collagen production and vitamin infusion into the superficial layers.

RF needling

Penetrates up to 8mm when using Extended mode, reaching deeper into the dermal layer for collagen stimulation.

Treatment Focus

Skin needling

Ideal for improving overall skin texture, tone, and addressing specific concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation.

RF needling

Particularly effective for skin tightening, reducing wrinkles, and addressing more advanced signs of ageing due to the inclusion of RF energy.

Skin needling and RF needling are both suitable choices for collagen stimulation and overall skin rejuvenation. The choice between the two depends on which skin concerns are being addressed, as well as the condition and age of the skin. These are all considered during the initial consultation to determine which treatment is right for you.

FAQs

Can you do skin needling when pregnant?

There are modifications that we can make to the skin needling treatment process, and skin infusion ingredients, which make it suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers.

Does skin needling hurt?

The discomfort traditionally associated with skin needling is minimised through the application of a topical anaesthetic cream before the procedure. There will be some sensation felt during the process, the use of the anaesthetic cream helps ensure that the experience is tolerated well, with very minimal discomfort.

How much is skin needling?

The cost for skin needling using a microneedling pen can be found on our pricing page.

How long before I start to see results?

Shortly after the initial healing period, which typically takes a few days to a week, you may begin to notice results such as improved skin texture, reduced redness, and a refreshed appearance.

In the weeks and months following your procedure the skin continues to regenerate and collagen production increases. Regular skin needling treatments and using quality at home skin care products are recommended for maximising results. The cumulative effects of regular treatment contribute to the long term improvement of overall skin health, with results becoming increasingly evident as the collagen remodelling process progresses. 

How many skin needling sessions do I need?

For optimal results, we recommend undergoing an initial series of 4 to 6 skin needling treatments. This structured approach allows for a cumulative and comprehensive rejuvenation of the skin and encourages continued collagen production.

How often should skin needling be done?

We recommend having your initial 4 to 6 treatments 4 to 6 weeks apart. 

For maintenance, we recommend having 1 treatment 4 times per year. This regular schedule helps to sustain and enhance the achieved results over time, ensuring continued skin improvement, collagen stimulation and long term benefits.

Is skin needling good for fine lines and wrinkles?

Yes, skin needling is good for addressing fine lines and wrinkles because the controlled micro-injuries created during the procedure stimulate collagen and elastin production. This natural response leads to increased skin firmness and elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. Additionally, the microchannels created by the microneedles allow for improved absorption of skin care products, further enhancing the overall rejuvenating effects on the skin.

Can I combine skin needling with other treatments?

Yes, there are many different treatments that can be effectively combined with skin needling. Some treatments include:

  • Chemical Peels: Sequential or alternating treatments with chemical peels can complement skin needling, addressing specific skin concerns for a comprehensive rejuvenation.
  • Laser Treatment: Pairing skin needling with laser treatments provides a synergistic approach, targeting different layers of the skin to enhance overall results.
  • Rejuran: Treatment with Rejuran injections stimulates the fibroblasts in the dermal layers of the skin, resulting in increased collagen production.
  • IPL Treatment: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) stimulates collagen production in the skin, contributing to improved skin elasticity and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. IPL can also target issues such as pigmentation, leading to a more even skin tone.
  • LED Light Therapy: LED light therapy, particularly the red spectrum, penetrates the skin reaching the dermal layer, and stimulates the production of collagen. LED light therapy can also speed up the healing process post skin needling procedure.

Where to get skin needling treatment in Melbourne?

During your consultation, your practitioner at Victorian Cosmetic Institute will carefully assess your skin and your suitability for skin needling. They can explain the different treatment options available, as well as understand your concerns and goals, in order to generate a tailored treatment plan.

The first step is to contact us for your initial skin needling consultation, where we will discuss with you what is a realistic and achievable outcome, and what to expect from your treatment. 

You can book your consultation online. Alternatively, you can speak with one of our friendly Customer Care team directly on 1300 863 824 who will find you a suitable appointment time.