Banish microneedling: what to know

The name is commonly associated with an at-home skin-needling approach. Home devices are not interchangeable with professional microneedling, where a trained practitioner selects settings for the treatment area and skin concern.

A needling device makes closely spaced microchannels in the skin. The healing response can gradually alter texture and the appearance of some acne scars. It does not erase every scar, and results depend on scar type, pigment tendency, device depth and treatment plan.

Needling over active acne, cold sores, eczema, infection or broken skin can spread irritation or microbes. Dark marks may follow inflammation, especially in skin prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation. Melasma can also worsen when heat, irritation or sun exposure triggers pigment activity.

Check that the device is intended for your chosen area and follow its cleaning, storage and replacement instructions. Never share a needling head. Do not improvise a deeper setting, combine needling with harsh peels, or apply products not intended for freshly treated skin.

After treatment, use gentle cleansing, a bland moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen. Avoid picking, scrubbing and strongly active skincare until tenderness and visible irritation settle. Professional assessment is sensible for raised scars, deep tethered scars, active pigment disorders or a history of abnormal scarring.

Mild temporary redness and sensitivity can occur after needling. Stop home treatment and obtain clinical advice if irritation is intense, persists instead of settling, or is followed by blistering, crusting, a pigment change or a new rash.

Seek prompt medical care for increasing pain, spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever or grouped painful blisters. These features can indicate infection or viral reactivation and should not be covered with another needling session.

Ask which scar pattern or pigment concern you have, whether needling suits your skin, and whether medication or a history of keloids changes the plan. A dermatologist can also explain how conventional, radiofrequency and laser procedures differ for your particular goal.