Medical needling / microneedling /
Dermaroller
for more beautiful skin
Associated terms:
- Dermal roller
- Derma Roller
- Microneedling
- Collagen induction therapy
- Needling Pen
- Derma Pen
General note:
As there is often confusion between cosmetic and medical needling, we will go into this in more detail below and also explain the difference between them
Table of contents
What is needling?
Needling is a cosmetic treatment in which the skin is specifically irritated with many tiny needles. These needles cause microscopic injuries in the uppermost layer of the skin. This sounds dramatic at first, but it has a positive effect: the skin becomes more elastic. Self-healing and forms new collagen and elastin.
Brief overview of needling:
Duration of treatment:
10-30 minutes, repeat treatments are advisable
Anaesthesia:
not required, depending on the region possible with anaesthetic cream, local anaesthetic
Follow-up treatment:
Increased UV protection for 4 weeks, with medical needling certain ingredients can accelerate healing
Load restrictions:
none - 1 day, no make-up for 24 hours
Brief information on microneedling
Depending on region € 150
Complete facial treatment 300 €
With PRP autologous blood therapy 350 €
What are the differences in needling?
What is the difference between microneedling / dermaroller treatment and medical needling?
There are different forms of needling. They are often used synonymously - but they refer to different procedures in cosmetics and medicine.
Microneedling
A superficial cosmetic treatment in which very fine, short needles (usually 0.2-0.5 mm) penetrate the uppermost layer of the skin (epidermis). The treatment is suitable for fine lines, light acne scars and a generally fresher complexion. Up to a penetration depth of 0.5 mm, needling is considered cosmetic needling and may be carried out by beauticians.
Dermaroller
A Dermaroller is a small skin care device that is fitted with numerous fine needles. These needles are usually made of surgical stainless steel and vary in length - from around 0.2 mm for sensitive areas of the face to 2.0 mm for the body. Alternatively, treatment with the dermaroller is also known as microneedling.
With 580 fine needles, numerous evenly distributed microchannels are opened in the skin. This enables the precise release of active ingredients under the surface of the skin, where they can take effect. At the same time, blood circulation is promoted and collagen production is stimulated.
The effect of skin rollers has been demonstrated in many histological studies and numerous publications:
- Collagen regeneration or collagen induction therapy
- Vascularisation or microcirculation stimulation
- Promotion of the transfer system through the skin with opening of the microchannels -> enables better penetration of active ingredients afterwards
The treatment is particularly gentle and can be carried out almost painlessly. Reddening of the skin after the treatment usually subsides after a day.
Medical needling
This method refers to more extensive medical applications that work with longer needles and more intensive effects. Longer needles are used (from 0.5 mm up to 2.5 mm or more), which penetrate deeper into the skin layers (up to the dermis).
The aim is to achieve intensive stimulation of collagen and elastin production in order to treat deeper wrinkles, pronounced scars, stretch marks or enlarged pores.
The treatment is more effective for severe skin problems, but is more invasive and in Germany may only be carried out by doctors or under medical supervision.
Summary of the methods
The main difference is in needle length, penetration depth, treatment target and effectiveness: longer needles and deeper application lead to greater stimulation of skin renewal, but also require more expertise and aftercare. Treatments should only be carried out by specialists, as incorrect application can lead to undesirable side effects or complications.
How often should you do needling?
The ideal frequency for needling varies depending on the skin condition, treatment goals and the skin's ability to regenerate.
Cosmetic microneedling / dermaroller treatment / needling pen:
As a rule, 4 to 6 treatments are required at intervals of 8 to 14 days. After completing such a course, the skin should undergo a regeneration phase of at least 4 to 6 weeks before the next cycle begins.
Medical needling
Sessions are usually carried out at intervals of 4 to 6 weeks to give the skin enough time to heal.
Is Micro Needling better than Botox?
Microneedling and Botox are different skin rejuvenation methods with different modes of action and treatment goals.
Microneedling improves skin quality and texture through the formation of new collagen and elastin fibres, while Botox quickly smoothes mimic wrinkles by reducing or blocking nerve transmission to the muscle. Both treatments are often combined for optimal results.
What are the risks / side effects of needling?
Needling is a popular skin rejuvenation method with some risks and side effects, which are usually mild and temporary, but can rarely be more severe. The type of side effects depends on the type of needling. As a general rule, the greater the depth of penetration into the skin, the greater the risks!
As part of the preliminary examination and consultation, we will explain all the individual points for you. However, the following is an overview of possible risks.
What are the risks / side effects of needling?
- Redness and swelling: After the treatment, the treated skin area often shows redness and swelling, comparable to sunburn. These reactions usually subside within a few hours to a few days.
- Slight burning or itchingthat wears off quickly.
- Minor bleeding or small haematomasEspecially with deeper needling, localised bleeding or haematomas may occur, but these usually heal quickly.
- Light scab or fine scaling can occur after intensive treatment and are a desired reaction.
Rarer, more serious side effects:
- InfectionsCareless sterility or neglect of aftercare can lead to bacterial or viral infections and aggravation of existing skin infections such as acne or herpes.
- Pigment changesHyperpigmentation (dark spots on the skin) and/or hypopigmentation (light spots on the skin) may occur, especially without adequate sun protection after treatment.
- Scars and keloids: improperly performed treatment can lead to excess scarring.
- Allergic reactionsThe skin may have an allergic reaction to products or materials.
- Pain: Temporary pain may occur during and after treatment.
- Uneven skin: Irregularities occur occasionally.
A microneedling treatment or medical needling therapy should be exclusively by qualified specialists and should never be carried out without a detailed medical history, as improper use can cause undesirable side effects or complications.
When should you not do microneedling or medical needling?
Microneedling or medical needling is not suitable for everyone. In particular, people with
- Active skin infections (e.g. acne, herpes, open wounds)
- Severe skin diseases (e.g. rosacea, psoriasis, eczema)
- Blood clotting disorders or taking blood thinners
- Tendency to keloid formation (excessive growth of scar tissue)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (lack of data)
- Immunodeficiency or ongoing cancer therapy
What needs to be considered after needling?
After a Needling the skin is particularly sensitive and needs targeted care in order to heal optimally and achieve the best possible result. Here are the most important points to bear in mind:
Rest for the skin
- Do not use any care products or make-up for the first 12-24 hours.
- Cleanse face with clear water only.
Moisturise
- Use soothing, moisturising products. As part of the consultation and treatment, we will provide you with appropriate recommendations for ingredients
UV protection is mandatory
- The skin is sensitive to light. Use daily high sun protection (SPF 50) (even with cloudy skies)
- Stay in the shade / avoid direct sunlight (for at least two, preferably 4 weeks)
Avoid irritants
- Do not use any products containing alcohol, fragrances or fruit acids (the latter can be used under medical supervision if necessary).
Support regeneration
- Use gentle skin care products to help your skin regenerate. We will be happy to provide you with appropriate assistance.
- No sport, sauna or steam bath for 48 hours
- No peelings or aggressive cleansing
What is the difference between microneedling and acupuncture?
Microneedling and acupuncture are two procedures that use needles but differ in their objectives, technique and mode of action.
Different objectives and areas of application:
Microneedling
The aim of this method is to create targeted stimuli and micro-injuries in the skin in order to stimulate regeneration processes such as collagen formation and cell renewal. This technique is mainly used for skin rejuvenation and to treat scars, wrinkles, pigmentation disorders and hair loss.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture aims to harmonise the flow of energy (Qi) and activate self-healing powers. It is traditionally used to treat many physical and psychological complaints, not just for cosmetic purposes.
How long do the results of needling last?
The duration of the effect varies, but regular follow-up treatments promote long-term success. Microneedling effects can remain visible for 1 to 3 years, especially with several sessions and good skin care. For long-lasting results, experts recommend regular refresher treatments, as natural ageing and environmental influences can weaken the results.
To summarise:
- First results: visible after 4-8 weeks
- Maximum effect: after about 2-3 months
- Shelf life: often 1 to 3 years, depending on individual factors and care
- For lasting results: regular refreshers recommended
Combination with other methods / active ingredients
With the dermaroller, various active ingredients can be used specifically for skin tightening and revitalisation, pigmentation disorders, hair loss or cellulite. Stretch marks, scars and acne can also be improved.
What should you look out for when choosing a doctor?
When choosing a specialist, make sure that you use the term Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery. Other designations such as beauty doctor, cosmetic surgeon, etc. are unprotected and not a sign of qualification (more on "What should you consider when choosing a specialist?„.
Make sure that you receive a comprehensive preliminary examination and information about the course of treatment, possible risks and the healing process.
Why should you come to us?
Extensive experience, maximum hygiene and infection protection, continuous further training and maximum care are the basis of our practice. This is also reflected in the large number of positive patient reviews, our seals and awards.
Benefit from our many years of experience. Dr Michaela Montanari has been a member of the board of the German Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (DGÄPC) since 2021.
What do patients say about us?
Do you have any questions?
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