Should I use 16 or 36 microneedling?

Author: Allene Cassin  |  Last update: Monday, December 15, 2025

What are the differences between the 12 pin, 16 pin, 36 pin and nano-needle cartridges? Which one do I need? We recommend the 12 pin and 16 pin (16 pin cartridges only available with the M8 device) for face. The 36 pin is recommended for the body (For stretch marks, for example).

Is 16 or 36 needles better for microneedling face?

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).

What is the 36 pin microneedle used for?

The 36-pin Microneedle Cartridges for Dr. Pen M8S Microneedling Pen cartridge is perfect for treating scarring. Include the 36-Pin Microneedle Cartridges in your microneedling routine for more skin benefits, such as acne scarring.

What is the best size for microneedling?

In published scientific studies, the optimal needle length for enhanced penetration has been proven to be 0.5 mm.

Should I use 12 or 36 needles for microneedling scalp?

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 microneedling cartridge should you be using? | How to microneedle safely with face mapping

What is the best depth for microneedling for hair growth?

Clinical studies have indicated that the optimal needle depth for microneedling is typically 1.5mm. This depth allows the needles to penetrate the dermis, accessing a greater supply of blood capillaries, which triggers a potent inflammatory response.

What is the difference between 12 pin and 36 pin microneedling?

12-Needle Cartridges: Often denser and thicker needles to penetrate deeper into the skin and trigger more collagen production, but then they are likely to be slightly painful. 36-Needle Cartridges: They are finer needles to reduce pain and swelling and facilitate treatment for sensitive skin patients.

What happens if you microneedle too deep?

Improper Technique: Applying excessive pressure or using incorrect needle depth can lead to skin trauma, scarring, and permanent damage. Infection Risks: Poor hygiene practices, unsterile equipment, or microneedling over active lesions increase the chances of bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

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).

Can I microneedle my armpits?

This treatment can be used for acne scarring, aging skin, hyperpigmentation, skin tightening. This can be used on the face, neck, décolletage and now the underarm area. Radiofrequency micro needling is also used to destroy sweat glands that contribute to excessive sweating.

Which Dr pen is the best for microneedling?

Which Microneedling Is Most Effective? You'll find the A11 microneedling pen most effective for deep scars and stretch marks, while the A9 excels in versatility, addressing various skin issues like acne scars and improving skin texture.

Can you microneedle without numbing cream?

Without numbing creams it too painful to penetrate deeply enough into the skin to get medical grade results. Myth: Microneedling hurts. Fact: Microneedling has an unfortunate name – but don't let that turn you off! At Restor we apply a topical numbing cream, and you will not feel any discomfort during the procedure.

How deep should I microneedle my face?

However, as micro-needling is fairly new to the beauty world, there is room for speculation. One study found evidence that, while there is no significant difference after 1.5mm depth, consistent results were achieved between 0.5 to 1.5 mm. Therefore, the study concluded that 1-1.5mm needles are an optimal choice.

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.

What is the best length for microneedling?

When microneedling is used as a procedure to treat ageing skin and wrinkles, the needle length of 0.5 mm or 1.0 mm is usually recommended.

How to make microneedling more effective?

We'll tell you how you can get the best results from this collagen-boosting therapy.
  1. Be Honest With Your Medical Provider. ...
  2. Go To Your Treatment With Bare Skin. ...
  3. Avoid Other Treatment Procedures or Topical Products Before Microneedling. ...
  4. Do Not Take Anti-Inflammatory and Blood Thinning Medications Before The Procedure.

Can I use 36 pin microneedling on my face at home?

We recommend the 12 pin and 16 pin (16 pin cartridges only available with the M8 device) for 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.

What is the best needle number for microneedling?

The most used facial needle sizes are 0.5mm and 1mm. Both of these sizes are suitable for most areas of the face and can be used for almost any skin issue. Since in-home skin needling began, the robust needle depth of 0.5mm has been the number one selling needle size.

What is 36 needle microneedling for?

The 36 Pin Cartridge will treat all of these concerns. You can needle deep during a session to induce collagen and treat your scars, then 2 weeks later you can set the depth to only . 25mm and basically nano your skin, allowing products to penetrate, you can even use BB Glow with 36 pin at the . 25mm setting.

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.

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.

Should I apply minoxidil after microneedling?

Once the micro-needling is complete, you can apply minoxidil. When using a derma roller at home, it's important to thoroughly clean the device afterwards using 70% isopropyl alcohol to reduce the risk of infection.

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