What is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin. These tiny punctures stimulate the body's natural wound healing process, encouraging collagen and elastin production. Microneedling effectively treats various skin concerns including acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture by harnessing your skin's natural regenerative capabilities with minimal downtime compared to more aggressive treatments.
Last updated: 08/04/2025 | Next revision date 08/10/2025
Key Components
Benefits of Microneedling
1 / Improved Skin Texture
Reduces roughness and creates smoother, more refined skin surface through controlled exfoliation and renewal
2 / Scar Reduction
Significantly diminishes the appearance of acne scars, surgical scars, and other forms of scarring by breaking up scar tissue
3 / Fine Line Minimisation
Reduces the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating new collagen and elastin production
4 / Enhanced Skin Tone
Improves hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and age spots by promoting even cellular turnover
Procedure Details
Pre-Treatment Consultation
Before your microneedling treatment, you'll have a comprehensive consultation with our qualified practitioner. During this appointment, we will:
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Examine your skin and discuss your specific concerns
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Review your medical history to ensure you're a suitable candidate
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Explain the procedure in detail and set realistic expectations
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Take photographs for before-and-after comparison
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Answer any questions about the procedure, risks, benefits, and aftercare
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Possibly recommend preparatory skincare with vitamin A or C products to optimise results
During the Procedure
The microneedling treatment process follows these steps:
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Cleansing: Your skin is thoroughly cleansed to remove any surface debris or oils
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Numbing: A topical anesthetic cream is applied and left on for 30-45 minutes to ensure your comfort
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Treatment: Using an electric microneedling pen device with fine needles:
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The device is passed over your skin in a systematic pattern
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Adjustable needle depths (typically 0.5mm to 2.0mm) are used based on the treatment area and concern
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Deeper penetration may be used for scarring, while more superficial depths are used for fine lines
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The procedure creates thousands of microscopic channels in your skin
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Serum Application: Therapeutic serums containing growth factors, hyaluronic acid, or peptides may be applied during or immediately after treatment for enhanced absorption
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Soothing Measures: A calming mask or cooling product is often applied to reduce immediate redness and irritation
The entire procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on the treatment area, with the total appointment lasting approximately 1.5-2 hours including numbing time.
Sensations During Treatment
Most clients describe the sensation as:
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A mild prickling or vibrating feeling with the numbing cream in effect
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Potentially more noticeable near bony areas like the forehead or jawline
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Varying in intensity depending on needle depth and treatment area
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Generally well-tolerated with proper numbing protocols
Post-Treatment
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Immediate Post-Treatment
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Appearance: Skin typically appears red and may feel warm, similar to a moderate sunburn
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Sensation: A tight, tingling feeling is common and typically subsides within hours
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Minor Swelling: Some degree of swelling is normal and generally resolves within 24-48 hours
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Pinpoint Bleeding: Tiny blood spots may appear in treated areas, especially with deeper needle penetration
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Recovery Timeline
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24-72 Hours: Peak redness and sensitivity; skin may feel dry or tight
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Days 3-5: Redness subsides; skin may experience minor flaking or peeling as cell turnover increases
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Day 7: Most visible signs of treatment have typically resolved for most patients
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Days 14-30: Progressive improvement becomes noticeable as collagen production increases
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3-6 Months: Continued collagen remodelling leads to optimal results, particularly for scar reduction
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Results Timeline
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Immediate Effects: A temporary "glow" from increased blood flow and mild swelling
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Short-Term Results: Improved skin texture and tone becomes apparent within 1-2 weeks
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Progressive Improvement: Continued enhancement in skin quality over 3-6 months as collagen production increases
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Long-Term Benefits: Results can last 6-12 months depending on your skin's condition and aging process
Post-Treatment Care
Immediate Aftercare (First 24-48 Hours)
Cleansing
Wash hands thoroughly before touching treated skin and use only lukewarm water with a gentle cleanser
Avoid Heat
Stay away from saunas, hot showers, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise that causes sweating
Hydration
Apply recommended hyaluronic acid serums and gentle moisturisers to maintain optimal hydration.
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No Makeup
Refrain from applying makeup for at least 24 hours (48 hours is ideal) to prevent irritation and infection
Sun Protection
Strictly avoid sun exposure and apply a physical (zinc/titanium) SPF 30+ if going outdoors.
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Post-Treatment Care
Extended Aftercare (3-7 Days)
Avoid Irritants
Do not use products containing: Fragranced products or essential oils, Retinoids or vitamin A derivatives and Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) in high concentrations
Hydration
Maintain skin hydration with appropriate products and increased water intake
Gentle Products
Use only gentle, non-active skincare products recommended by your practitioner
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No Picking
Never pick, peel, or scratch at any flaking skin as this can cause scarring or pigmentation issues
Sun Avoidance
Continue strict sun protection for at least 2 weeks post-treatment
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Considerations:
Is This Treatment Right for You?
Potential Side Effects
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Common and Expected:
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Temporary redness and inflammation (24-72 hours)
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Mild swelling and tenderness
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Skin tightness and dryness
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Light flaking or peeling during healing
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Temporary sensitivity to products and sun
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Less Common:
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Bruising, particularly around eyes or on thin skin
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Pinpoint bleeding that persists beyond treatment
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Prolonged redness beyond 3-5 days
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Temporary hyperpigmentation (more common in darker skin tones)
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Rare Complications:
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Infection (bacterial, fungal, or viral)
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Scarring or textural changes
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Persistent hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
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Activation of herpes simplex in susceptible individuals
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Granuloma formation (very rare)
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Special Considerations
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Darker Skin Tones: While generally safe for all skin types, treatment protocols may be modified for darker skin to minimise risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
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Sensitive Skin: Reduced needle depth and specialised post-care may be recommended
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Previous Cosmetic Procedures: Inform your practitioner about fillers, Botulinum Toxin (Botox), or other treatments
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Medications: Disclose all medications, supplements, and topical treatments you use regularly
Microneedling treatments at Hertford Cosmetics
Achieve a youthful, radiant complexion with our advanced anti-aging and skin rejuvenation facial treatments and aesthetics. Discover how our cutting-edge techniques can rejuvenate your skin and turn back the clock.
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