What depth of microneedling for scars?

Author: Gilda Hansen  |  Last update: Monday, December 8, 2025

Conclusions: The use of 2.5 mm depth proved to be more effective both clinically and histologically in the management of atrophic postacne scars.

How deep should you microneedle scars?

There is a generally agreed upon effective depth range (0.10 mm to 3 mm), although the length of needles chosen within that range is determined by the severity of the concern, area being treated, the person's discomfort tolerance and response.

What length microneedle for scars?

For treating acne and other scars as a routine, a needle length of 1.5–2 mm is usually used. 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.

Is 2.5 mm too deep for microneedling?

Answer: Microneedling Hello and thank you for your question. The needle depth of 2.5mm is the deepest Microneedling can penetrate. You do not have to go that deep to see a therapeutic result. Most 2.5mm treatments are for scarring such as acne or for older skin more wrinkled skin.

Is 12 pin or 36 pin microneedling better for the face?

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.

My MICRONEEDLING Experience| + Skin Updates | Before & After

Can I use 36 pin microneedling on face?

The 12 pin is recommended for the face, while the 36 pin is more suitable for body. The nano cartridge can be used regularly for improved serum absorption (scroll down to learn more about nano-needling). What are the differences between the 12 pin, 16 pin, 36 pin and nano-needle cartridges?

Which microneedling cartridge is best for scars?

9—to 12-pin cartridges

These pins are perfect for targeting specific concerns like deep acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles. These cartridges, such as the 11-Pin Microneedle Cartridges, diligently tackle problem areas, providing more aggressive treatment for a smoother and more refined complexion.

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.

Which microneedling depth is best?

Suitable depth varies depending on the site.
  • Forehead: 0.25 to 1.0 mm.
  • Around the eyes: 0.25 to 1.0 mm.
  • Cheek: 0.25 to 1.5 mm, up to 2.5 mm possible.
  • Nose: 0.25-0.5 mm, up to 2.5 mm possible.
  • Jaw: 0.25 to 1.0 mm, up to 2.5 mm possible.
  • Body: 0.25 to 3.0 mm.

How deep can estheticians do microneedling?

In California, aestheticians cannot penetrate the skin and should not perform microneedling. This can also be done at home, but products available likely do not go as deep into the skin's surface as those done by a professional.

Does microneedling work on very old scars?

Whether you're grappling with aging tissue or years-old acne scarring, we can help with microneedling. Here's a look at how microneedling can clear away the wreckage of the past, leaving a smooth surface in its wake.

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.

Can I microneedle my 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.

How many times can you microneedle a scar?

If you're looking to improve scar reduction, you'll likely need 3-6 treatments and collagen induction usually requires 3 treatments as a starting point. Keep in mind that the number of treatments that you need depends on how your skin responds to microneedling.

Is it better to go deeper with microneedling?

Shallow microneedling is suitable for minor issues and overall skin enhancement, while medium and deep microneedling is more effective for addressing moderate to severe skin concerns.

How deep should microneedling be for scars?

Conclusions: The use of 2.5 mm depth proved to be more effective both clinically and histologically in the management of atrophic postacne scars.

Is 2mm too deep for microneedling?

The correct depth for microneedling stretchmarks is 1.5mm-2.5mm. It's recommended to start with a 1.5mm depth for 3-4 sessions before considering a larger size. Deep dark stretch marks usually take 3-5 sessions of a 2mm+ needle depth to see results.

How deep do professional microneedles go?

At-home microneedling devices also only superficially affect the skin—they penetrate just its outer layer (the stratum corneum or epidermis), reaching 0.25 mm deep. Professional devices can go deeper (2 mm to 3 mm deep), reaching not only the epidermis but also the dermis, a deeper layer of skin.

Is it better to microneedling fast or slow?

As a general rule, the faster you set the speed on your microneedling pen, the deeper the needle will penetrate your skin. If you're using the pen on your face or other sensitive areas, we recommend using a lower speed - this gives you more precise control of the pen and its movements.

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 you get rid of scars with microneedling?

You may need more than one treatment session to get the results you want. For example, if your dermatologist is treating acne scars, you may need 3 to 5 treatments, which are performed every 2 to 4 weeks. Studies have found that this treatment plan can fade acne scars by 50% to 70%.

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.

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.

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