What Is Microneedling and What Can It Treat?

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling — also known as collagen induction therapy — is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses a device containing fine, sterile needles to create thousands of tiny micro-channels in the skin. These controlled micro-injuries trigger the skin's natural healing response, stimulating the production of new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.

The result is skin that is firmer, smoother, and more even in tone and texture. Unlike ablative laser treatments, microneedling does not remove the outer layer of the skin, making it suitable for a wider range of skin types and tones — including darker skin tones that may be at risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from more aggressive treatments.

SkinPen Precision: The Gold Standard

At Skintap, we use the SkinPen Precision — the world's first FDA-cleared microneedling device and the only microneedling device with Level 1 clinical evidence for the treatment of acne scarring. Unlike cheaper dermaroller devices or unregulated "at-home" tools, the SkinPen delivers consistent, controlled needle depth and speed, ensuring both safety and efficacy.

The SkinPen creates vertical micro-channels rather than the tearing motion of a roller, which minimises epidermal damage and reduces downtime. Each treatment cartridge is single-use and sterile, eliminating any risk of cross-contamination.

What Can Microneedling Treat?

Microneedling is one of the most versatile treatments in aesthetic medicine. Clinical evidence supports its use for:

• Acne scarring — including ice pick, rolling, and boxcar scars. Multiple studies have demonstrated significant improvement in acne scar severity with a course of microneedling treatments.
• Enlarged pores — microneedling stimulates collagen around pore walls, reducing their appearance.
• Uneven skin texture — rough, bumpy, or uneven skin texture responds well to microneedling, with smoother results typically visible after two to three sessions.
• Fine lines and early wrinkles — particularly perioral lines and early forehead lines.
• Stretch marks — microneedling can improve the appearance of stretch marks on the body as well as the face.
• Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone — when combined with appropriate topical serums, microneedling can help to address post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma.
• Hair loss (alopecia) — scalp microneedling, often combined with PRP or topical growth factors, can stimulate hair follicle activity.

What Happens During a Microneedling Treatment?

A standard microneedling session at Skintap follows this protocol:

1. Consultation and skin assessment — Nurse Heather will review your skin concerns, medical history, and current skincare routine to ensure microneedling is appropriate for you.
2. Topical anaesthetic — a numbing cream is applied to the treatment area and left for 30–45 minutes to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
3. Treatment — the SkinPen is passed over the skin in a systematic pattern. The depth and speed are adjusted according to the area being treated and the concern being addressed. The treatment itself typically takes 20–30 minutes.
4. Post-treatment serum — a soothing, hydrating serum is applied immediately after treatment to support the healing process.
5. Aftercare advice — you will receive detailed written aftercare instructions, including guidance on sun protection, skincare products to avoid, and when to resume your normal routine.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions required depends on the concern being treated and its severity. As a general guide:

• For general skin quality and texture: 3 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart
• For acne scarring: 4–6 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart
• For stretch marks: 4–6 sessions, 6–8 weeks apart

Results continue to improve for up to six months after a course of treatment as the collagen remodelling process completes. Many patients choose to have a maintenance session every 6–12 months to sustain their results.

What Is the Downtime?

Microneedling with the SkinPen typically causes redness and mild swelling for 24–48 hours after treatment — similar in appearance to mild sunburn. Most patients are comfortable returning to work the following day, provided they are happy to wear minimal makeup or none at all. Full skin recovery, including any flaking or dryness, typically resolves within five to seven days.

Sun protection is essential in the weeks following treatment. We recommend SPF 50 daily and avoidance of direct sun exposure for at least two weeks post-treatment.

Can Microneedling Be Combined with Other Treatments?

Yes — microneedling combines particularly well with:

• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) — applying PRP topically during microneedling, or injecting it into the skin, enhances collagen stimulation and accelerates healing. This combination is sometimes referred to as a "vampire facial."
• Exosomes — at Skintap, we offer Purasomes exosome treatments delivered by microneedling, which provide cutting-edge cellular regeneration benefits.
• Chemical peels — a peel can be performed before a course of microneedling to prepare the skin, or alternated between sessions.

Microneedling at Skintap

SkinPen microneedling at Skintap is priced from £200 per session. Skintap members receive a discount on treatments as part of their membership benefits. To find out whether microneedling is right for your skin, book a consultation with Nurse Heather at our South Woodford clinic.

All treatments at Skintap are subject to clinical suitability assessment. Results may vary between individuals.