How Often to Microneedle Face Safely for Best Results

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy or skin needling, is an aesthetic procedure that involves pricking the skin with tiny sterilized needles to boost collagen production and skin renewal.

It creates thousands of micro-injuries in the dermis which signal the body to generate new collagen and elastin. This results in firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin over time.

Microneedling is used to treat and improve concerns like:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Dull, uneven skin tone
• Enlarged pores
• Acne scars
• Hyperpigmentation

It is suitable for all skin types and can be performed safely on the face, neck, chest, hands, back, and other body areas.

How Does Microneedling Work?

Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries in the deeper dermis layer of skin without damaging the epidermis. This stimulates the release of growth factors that boost collagen and elastin synthesis.

More collagen plumps skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Increased elastin improves elasticity and firmness.

The micro-injuries also allow better absorption of serums and creams applied before or after the treatment. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and retinol can penetrate deeper for enhanced effects.

Repeated microneedling treatments every 4-6 weeks promote new collagen formation for cumulative benefits. Skin continues improving over time with an increased thickness and suppleness.

How Often Should You Microneedle Your Face?

Most dermatologists recommend microneedling your face once every 4-6 weeks initially. After the first few sessions, maintenance appointments can be reduced to every 6-12 weeks.

Initial Sessions

During the first 3-4 microneedling facials, aim for treatments every 4-6 weeks. This allows enough time between appointments for skin to heal while still maintaining the collagen stimulation.

Your dermatologist may suggest more frequent sessions every 3-4 weeks to start if targeting severe wrinkles, deep scars or stretch marks. But take care not to over-treat delicate facial skin.

Maintenance Microneedling

After completing 3-5 initial microneedling facials, you can scale back to maintenance appointments every 6-12 weeks. At this point, your collagen and elastin levels will have increased significantly.

For preventative anti-aging, microneedling every 8-12 weeks may be sufficient. If treating moderate to severe wrinkles or scarring, maintain every 6 weeks.

Schedule sessions based on when you notice fine lines or dullness reappearing. You want to microneedle again right before underlying damage re-surfaces.

Microneedling Frequency by Skin Concern

Here are general guidelines on treatment frequency by condition:

• Mild fine lines - Every 12 weeks
• Moderate wrinkles - Every 8 weeks
• Severe wrinkles - Every 6 weeks
• Enlarged pores - Every 4 weeks initially
• Facial scars - Every 4 weeks initially
• Dull, uneven tone - Every 6 weeks

Having deeper microneedling done less frequently is more beneficial than superficial needling weekly. Allow the skin ample healing time between properly intensive sessions.

Microneedling Needle Size and Depth

The needle size used impacts recommended frequency. The depth of penetration into layers of skin also affects downtime needed between sessions.

Needle Gauge

Thinner, finer gauge needles cause less trauma compared to thicker needles. Here are common microneedling needle gauges:

• 31 gauge - 0.25mm diameter - Shallowest depth
• 29 gauge - 0.30mm diameter
• 27 gauge - 0.31mm diameter
• 25 gauge - 0.50mm diameter - Deepest penetration

The finest 31 or 32 gauge needles used at 0.5mm depth can be done every 7-10 days. But there is less collagen stimulation than with deeper needling.

Medical microneedling pens use disposable tips ranging from 32 down to 25 gauge. Adjustable depth settings allow controlling the needle penetration.

Needle Length

Microneedling depth into the dermis layer is also key. The typical ranges are:

• 0.25-0.5mm - Superficial micro-needling
• 0.5-1.0mm - Light therapy
• 1.0-2.0mm - Moderate depth
• 2.0-2.5mm - Intense therapy

Shorter 0.25-0.5mm needles lightly exfoliate the epidermis. This can be done more frequently at 7-14 day intervals depending on needle gauge.

For deeper wrinkles, scars and pore reduction, 1.0-2.0mm penetration every 4-6 weeks is recommended. This balances results with proper healing periods.

Derma Roller vs. Dermapen

At-home microneedling tools like derma rollers require more caution. Their results are limited compared to in-office micropen treatments.

Derma Roller Tips

Derma rollers have between 150 and 3,000 stainless steel microneedles across the rolling head. Only 0.25-0.5mm needle lengths should ever be rolled across your face.

Use a derma roller no more than once monthly over clean dry skin. Roll 4-6 times horizontally, then repeat vertically and diagonally across each facial area.

Improper derma roller use can damage skin. Disinfect needling tools before and after each use to prevent infection.

Dermapen Microneedling

In-office microneedling pens like Dermapen offer superior collagen induction versus DIY rollers. A licensed esthetician controls the sterilized pen at precise depths over your skin.

Micropens use disposable needle cartridges ranging from 12 to 36 tiny needles. The motorized device rapidly pierces skin up to 17,000 times per minute.

In-office micropen facials allow deeper, more advanced microneedling. Take care of skin as directed post-procedure and avoid sun exposure.

Pre- and Post-Procedure Microneedling Skin Care

Properly caring for your skin before and after microneedling is vital. This minimizes side effects and downtime between sessions.

Before Your Appointment

Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin for your microneedling session. Avoid actives like retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, or vitamin C for 24 hours pre-treatment.

Let your esthetician know if you have taken NSAIDs, fish oil, vitamin E or other blood thinning supplements which may increase bruising or bleeding.

Some offices provide a numbing cream to apply 30-60 minutes before the procedure. This reduces discomfort during the service.

After Your Treatment

Your skin may feel warm, tight, and mildly sunburned for 12-24 hours after microneedling. Using ice packs can provide comfort and reduce swelling.

Cleanse skin gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Apply soothing products like hyaluronic acid and avoid active exfoliants.

Once skin has fully healed in 24-48 hours, use targeted serums like vitamin C and retinol to boost results.

Always apply an SPF 30 sunscreen after microneedling. UV exposure can damage sensitive skin and cause hyperpigmentation.

Microneedling Risks and Side Effects

Microneedling is considered very safe with minimal risks when properly performed by a licensed provider. However, some temporary side effects can occur.

Common Short-Term Side Effects

Typical symptoms immediately after microneedling include:

• Mild bleeding/oozing
• Redness and irritation
• Swelling
• Tenderness and tightness
• Warmth sensation

These generally subside within 24-48 hours as skin recovers. Cool compresses, skin-soothing products and an SPF can speed healing.

Potential Longer-Term Risks

With repeated improper microneedling, potential long-term damage may occur like:

• Infection
• Pigmentation changes
• Scarring

Following all pre- and post-care instructions reduces these risks. Seek emergency medical attention for signs of infection.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Microneedling?

Microneedling is safe and effective for most skin types and colors when done correctly. It is not suitable if you:

• Have very sensitive skin
• Use isotretinoin acne medication
• Have a history of keloid scars
• Have an active skin infection
• Are prone to cold sores/herpes outbreaks

Talk to your dermatologist before getting microneedling if you have any skin conditions, take blood thinners or have a weakened immune system.

What About At-Home Microneedling Tools?

Dermatologists do not recommend using at-home microneedling devices. The risks of pain, injury, infection and scarring outweigh any benefits compared to professional treatments.

It is too challenging to fully sterilize DIY needling tools properly. You are also unable to target the ideal needle depth for your specific skin concerns.

See a board-certified dermatologist or licensed esthetician for the safest and most effective microneedling sessions.

Should Microneedling Be Combined With Other Treatments?

Many providers offer microneedling in combination with other rejuvenating treatments like:

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) - Injected to stimulate collagen and healing.
• Radiofrequency - Heats deeper skin layers to boost collagen and tighten.
• Chemical peels - Enhance penetration of acids to resurface skin.
• Laser skin resurfacing - Combined with microneedling for more advanced wrinkle reduction.

One study found that laser skin resurfacing followed by microneedling resulted in a 550% increase of collagen compared to needling alone. Multi-therapy treatments target different structural skin issues for superior, longer-lasting results.

Does Insurance Cover Microneedling?

Since microneedling is considered an elective cosmetic treatment, insurance does not cover it. The cost ranges from $100-$700 per session depending on your provider and location.

Many practices offer package discounts for multiple microneedling appointments when paid upfront. Use medical flexible spending (FSA) accounts to pay if available.

Microneedling for organic, natural looking results over time continues growing in popularity for skin rejuvenation. As always, discuss options with your dermatologist to determine if it could benefit your skin concerns.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.