Are more or less needles better for microneedling?

Author: Prof. Carlie Cremin II  |  Last update: Friday, August 15, 2025

The greater the needle count, the less the penetration. The fewer needle count, offers greater penetration (due to the Fakir effect). 11/12/16/18 needle cartridges are the most versatile and suit all applications and are best suited for the deeper needling of Collagen Induction Therapy.

What is the best number of needles for microneedling?

Answer: Microneedling I believe it's more important to find a provider that you trust in a reputable clinic. You will find many different pens on the market. We use 36 needles for those with acne scars and 12 needles for those looking to maintain results and stimulate collagen. Best of luck to you.

Which is better, 16 or 36 needle microneedling?

Cartridges with 11-16 pins are best suited for targeted applications. Size 36-42 pins are best for larger surface areas and more sensitive skin.

How do you maximize microneedling results?

Microneedling Aftercare Tips
  1. Boosting progress with supplements.
  2. Avoiding intense activities.
  3. Staying out of hot showers and baths.
  4. Letting the skin rest before further treatments.
  5. Not wearing makeup.
  6. Protecting your skin from the sun.
  7. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol.

Is 12 or 36 needles better for microneedling scalp?

For microneedling on the scalp, it is advised to use a cartridge with more needles: the 24-pin or the 36-pin cartridge. This is to suit the skin of the scalp. For the needle length, it should ideally be between 0.5mm to 1.5mm for scalp treatment.

Is MICRONEEDLING Worth the Hype? Doctorly Explains

What is the 12 needle microneedling used for?

The 12-pin Microneedle Cartridge needles improve the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and overall skin texture by stimulating collagen production.

Can you microneedle too deep?

In his “Commentary on: Micro-Needling Depth Penetration…” , Des Fernandez, MD found that “1.0 to 1.5 [mm] is a very effective depth to achieve good results” and that “overtreatment and excoriation of the epidermis becomes a real danger when trying to do skin needling at 2.0 mm or more with these vertical mechanical ...

How to increase the effectiveness of microneedling?

Following a consistent skincare regimen can help to maintain the results of microneedling. A skincare regimen that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing regularly can help to improve the texture and tone of the skin, as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Can you overdo micro needling?

Even though microneedling benefits the skin, overdoing it can cause serious risks, including skin irritation, redness, and inflammation, leading to discomfort. Overdoing treatments or not allowing ample time between sessions can lead to scarring and even hyperpigmentation.

Why am I not seeing results with microneedling?

This treatment is all about 'repair' and stimulating collagen. This takes time and occurs deep within the skin, so the effects of Microneedling may not be seen immediately. RF Microneedling causes small wounds (pinpricks) in your skin which stimulates the skin's repair mode.

Can I use a 36 needle on my face?

The 36 pin is recommended for the body (For stretch marks, for example). Which body parts can you microneedle? You can use the Dr Pen microneedle on your whole body. Popular areas include face, neck, decolletage and hips (for stretch marks).

What is stronger than microneedling?

Laser treatments can often provide quicker, more dramatic and long lasting results than microneedling treatments. Because lasers deliver heat to the skin we see more side effects (such as temporary darkening or bruising) and longer downtime due to post-treatment swelling and redness.

Should I use 16 or 36 microneedling?

As a general rule, nano pins are best for increasing product absorption, 11-16 pins are best for targeted applications and 36-42 pins are best for larger and more sensitive areas (such as your neck, upper/inner thighs and underarm).

Is deeper microneedling better?

Mistake 1: Deeper Doesn't Equal Better

Using a needle depth of 0.5mm is deep enough to penetrate the dermis and reap all of the benefits microneedling offers. Using a deep 2.5mm needle all over the face isn't necessary, and using a needle all over the face isn't particularly comfortable.

Can you microneedle lips?

In lip microneedling, hyaluronic acid is applied to the lips and is followed by microneedling, supposedly to help HA penetrate the dermal layer. In reality, because of the thinness of lip tissue, micro-wounds must be kept shallow, too shallow to elicit collagen formation or deliver HA to deep lip tissue.

Why do I look older after microneedling?

Why Do I Look Older After Microneedling? You might look older after microneedling because your skin is temporarily inflamed and shedding older layers.

Are more needles better for microneedling?

The needles involve pricking the skin to create micro channels, a controlled injury just beneath the skin's surface to stimulate the production of collagen in the treated area. The greater the needle count, the less the penetration. The fewer needle count, offers greater penetration (due to the Fakir effect).

What is the average price of a microneedling session?

The average cost of microneedling in the US is about $640 per session, according to over 300 patient experiences on RealSelf. This can vary between $300 to $700, however, depending on: Your location: Prices may be higher in major cities or upscale clinics.

How do I get the best results from microneedling?

BOOST YOUR MICRONEEDLING RESULTS WITH THESE 12 TIPS
  1. USE SUN PROTECTION. ...
  2. EXFOLIATE YOUR SKIN. ...
  3. AVOID HAIR REMOVAL TREATMENTS. ...
  4. ARRIVE WITH CLEANSED SKIN. ...
  5. AVOID STRENUOUS EXERCISE. ...
  6. ELEVATE WHEN SLEEPING. ...
  7. SKINCARE & MAKEUP. ...
  8. CREATE A SAFE MICRONEEDLING TREATMENT PLAN. Make sure you have a set treatment schedule and stick to it.

Can you do microneedling under eyes?

Overall, microneedling under eyes is a safe and effective treatment for addressing various skin concerns and can help improve the overall appearance of the eye area.

What is the best thing to put on skin after microneedling?

What to Put On Your Skin After Microneedling
  • Avoid harsh scrubs or products.
  • Only clean your skin with a professionally formulated cleanser.
  • Apply targeted skincare serums that will penetrate deeply into your skin.
  • Keep your skin well-hydrated with a gentle moisturizer.
  • Apply medical-grade sun protection.

How hard do you press when microneedling?

Use a light, even pressure. If you have some loose skin, you may need to hold this area taut also.

How do you know if microneedling is wrong?

Skin damage is a risk that commonly occurs with microneedling devices. The damage may include bleeding, bruising, redness, tightness, itching and peeling, and these typically go away without any treatment after a few days or weeks.

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