How microneedling works: everything you need to know

This article was reviewed and approved by certified skin therapist Jasmina Pivic on January 19, 2024.

Most people have probably heard of microneedling, or dermapen as it is also known, by now. The method, whose name sounds scarier than it is, has become extremely popular for both treating a variety of skin problems and creating a beautiful glow. Here, our experienced skin therapist Jasmina Pivic answers the most common questions we get about microneedling. What is it? How does it work? How effective is it? Does it hurt? What kind of results can I expect? Read on to find out.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a skin treatment in which tiny needles in a hand-held 'pen' are used to create a controlled lesion in the skin and deliver nutrient-rich active ingredients into the skin. The aim is to damage micro-injuries that trigger the body's own healing process, helping to renew skin cells and increase collagen production. The result is rejuvenated skin with increased radiance.

How does a microneedling treatment work?

When you arrive at the clinic, one of our skin therapists will look at your face and listen to your expectations of the treatment. Then we clean your face and apply an anesthetic ointment that is allowed to work for a while. We do this to reduce the discomfort you might otherwise feel from the stitches. How painful the treatment itself is completely individual - some people barely feel it while others dislike the stinging of the skin. 

After the 30-minute treatment, we apply a cooling mask that you wear for a while. You'll also take home a special face cream to use on your skin for two days. After a month, you can come for another treatment. Most of our customers book a full course of treatment right away, consisting of three treatments one month apart.

How effective is microneedling? 

There are several benefits of microneedling, and its effectiveness depends on your skin and the problems you want to address. Microneedling is suitable for all skin types and can reduce acne scars, pigmentation, large pores, wrinkles, fine lines and dullness. Here are some of the main benefits: 

• Microneedling stimulates collagen production in the skin, the protein responsible for the structure and elasticity of the skin. More collagen makes the skin firmer and more resilient.
• The treatment reduces acne scars and pigmentation by creating new scar tissue over the old scars and irregularities, thus "filling in" pits and smoothing the outer layer of skin. 
• Microneedling reduces fine lines and wrinkles by smoothing and stimulating the production of collagen. It is particularly noticeable around the eyes and mouth.
• Microneedling can also reduce the size of pores by stimulating the skin's natural recovery processes.
• You get an improvement in skin tone and texture as microneedling promotes cell renewal, resulting in a more even and radiant complexion.

Exactly how effective the treatment is on your skin is difficult to predict. Therefore, we welcome you to a skin analysis where you can ask all your questions to our skin therapists and go through a customized treatment plan based on your needs.

Does microneedling hurt?

The level of pain is very individual. Some people experience no pain at all, while others find that it stings and burns. We always start by applying an anesthetic ointment to reduce discomfort during the treatment. After the treatment, you will receive a cooling mask to soothe the skin.

What is the skin like after microneedling?

For most people, the skin turns red immediately after the treatment. This is a normal reaction and usually subsides after a few hours. You may also experience dryness of the skin, and after a few days it may start to flake. This is part of the natural exfoliation process as new skin cells replace the old ones. The results come after about a week when you will notice a fresh glow on your skin.

It is important to remember that your skin becomes extra sensitive after a treatment, so be sure to use a high SPF protection if you are going to be outdoors, regardless of the season.

Who should not do microneedling?

You should avoid microneedling if you have active acne, as the treatment may increase the risk of infection. People with skin infections or skin conditions such as eczema should also be careful and avoid the procedure. If you are pregnant, you should not have microneedling.

Are you keen to give it a try? Book your treatment at Estetikcentrum in Malmö here. You can also contact us if you have any questions and we will help you.