Microneedling is one of the most effective treatments for improving skin texture, tone, and overall quality — but not all microneedling treatments are the same. The true power of microneedling lies in precision, particularly in the needle depth used for different skin concerns and areas of the face and body.

Understanding how microneedling works, and why different needle sizes are used, helps explain why professional, personalised treatments deliver far superior results.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, uses sterile, medical-grade needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These micro-channels trigger the body’s natural wound-healing response, stimulating:

• Collagen production
• Elastin regeneration
• Increased blood flow
• Enhanced cell turnover

As the skin heals, it becomes smoother, firmer, and more resilient.

Why Needle Depth Matters

The skin is made up of multiple layers, and different concerns originate at different depths. Using the correct needle length is critical, too shallow and results are limited; too deep and unnecessary trauma can occur.

Professional microneedling devices use interchangeable heads with varying needle lengths, allowing treatments to be tailored precisely to your skin’s needs.

Understanding Different Needle Depths & Their Benefits

0.25–0.5mm – Skin Rejuvenation & Product Absorption
These shallow depths target the upper layers of the skin and are ideal for:
• Enhancing skin glow
• Improving hydration
• Boosting absorption of active serums
• Refining skin texture

This depth is commonly used for maintenance treatments and sensitive areas.

0.5–1.0mm – Fine Lines, Pores & Pigmentation
This mid-range depth reaches the superficial dermis and is effective for:
• Softening fine lines
• Reducing enlarged pores
• Improving mild pigmentation
• Boosting collagen production

This depth delivers visible improvement while maintaining a comfortable recovery time.

1.0–1.5mm – Acne Scarring & Texture Irregularities
Deeper needle lengths stimulate stronger collagen remodelling and are used to treat:
• Acne scars
• Uneven skin texture
• Stretch marks (on the body)
• More established fine lines

These treatments are always performed by trained professionals due to the depth involved.

1.5–2.0mm – Advanced Scarring & Body Treatments
Reserved for specific concerns and thicker skin areas, such as:
• Deep acne scarring
• Surgical scars
• Body rejuvenation areas

This depth requires expert assessment and precise technique.

Why Different Areas Need Different Depths

Facial skin thickness varies. For example:
• Forehead and under-eye areas require shallower depths
• Cheeks and jawline can tolerate deeper penetration
• Body areas often require longer needle lengths

A professional microneedling treatment adjusts needle depth throughout the session, ensuring safety, effectiveness, and optimal results.

The Role of Serums & Aftercare

The micro-channels created during microneedling dramatically increase absorption of active ingredients. Hyaluronic acid, peptides, growth factors, or polynucleotides may be applied to enhance healing and results.

Proper aftercare is crucial to support skin repair and protect newly treated skin.

Results & Treatment Planning

Microneedling results are cumulative. While skin may appear brighter after one session, collagen regeneration occurs over weeks. A course of treatments delivers the most noticeable improvements in:
• Skin firmness
• Texture
• Scar reduction
• Overall skin quality