What is microneedling?
A handheld pen with very fine needles works across the skin in small, controlled passes. Every client gets a new sterile needle cartridge, used once and then thrown away.
People usually ask about it because of how the texture of their skin looks. It will not remove lines or scars, and if it won’t give you what you are hoping for, I’ll say so.
Who it tends to suit, and who should wait
It is for adults aged 18 and over, and tends to suit people who are happy to plan a course and be patient. Suitability is always checked in person, so you don’t need to share health details by message. Please wait if:
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have active breakouts, a cold sore or any infection in the area
- you have a skin condition, until you have checked with your doctor
- your skin is sunburnt or freshly tanned
- you take certain medicines or have some health conditions
- you have a tendency to raised (keloid) scars
On the day, and what it feels like
Your consultation comes first, at the start of your appointment. I look at your skin and ask about your health and routine. You also need a patch test at least 48 hours before your first treatment, so if you are new to me, please message me before you book and I’ll arrange it.
On the day of your treatment, I cleanse your skin and apply numbing cream for about 20 minutes before working across it with the pen. Most people describe a scratchy, buzzing feeling, more noticeable over the forehead and around the mouth. You may see tiny pinpoints of blood in places, which is expected. I go at your pace and stop whenever you ask. The whole appointment takes about 45 minutes.
Afterwards, work and make-up
Expect to look pink, a little like a day in the sun, with skin that feels warm and tight. It is often much calmer by the next day, though some pinkness or light flaking can last a couple of days more. Skin varies, so I can’t promise how yours will look.
Make-up stays off for about 24 hours. Many people go back to work the next day, but if your job is face to face you might book before a day off. Please allow at least a week before an important event.
How many sessions?
Microneedling is usually planned as a course, often three to six sessions, four to six weeks apart. Before you commit to anything, we agree your plan, the full cost, and whether I would suggest a top-up once the course is finished.
Any change builds gradually, so this one rewards patience. Many people notice their skin looks and feels smoother over a course, though results vary from person to person. Part way through the course, we look together at how it is going, and you decide whether to carry on.
Aftercare and possible side effects
Redness, tightness, dryness and light flaking are common. Less often, people get small spots, slight swelling or bruising. Rarer risks include infection, an allergic reaction, a cold sore flare, changes in skin colour and scarring. If anything doesn’t look right, message me and I’ll advise you, or suggest you see your doctor.
You go home with written aftercare. In short:
- Keep skincare gentle, with no retinol, acids or scrubs for five days.
- Wear SPF every day and keep out of strong sun.
- Skip the gym, saunas and swimming for 48 hours.
- Don’t pick at any flaking.
- Messages are not monitored overnight. If you feel unwell after any treatment, call 111, or 999 in an emergency.
Microneedling or microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a gentler surface polish that lifts away dull surface cells, and skin can look a little pink for an hour or two. Microneedling uses fine needles, takes more planning around your diary, and is usually booked as a course. Not sure which fits? Tell me what you are noticing, and I’ll suggest one, or neither.
Price and booking
You can see the price of a single session on Booksy. Message me and I’ll tell you the full cost of a course, and what it includes, before you commit.
Book on Booksy, or message me first to talk it through. I work by appointment, and you receive the full address when you book.