Skin needling (microneedling) creates tiny punctures in the skin to support its natural rejuvenation. Topicals such as NCTF (vitamins, minerals and antioxidants) or BYRYZN Opuluxe (a hydrating topical serum) may be applied afterwards to support hydration.

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Risks and possible complications are set out further down this page and we ask that you read them before booking.

 

Who it may suit

People wanting to work on skin texture, tone or fine lines, and those looking for a treatment that can be repeated as part of an ongoing skin plan. Suitability is assessed at your consultation.

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What to expect

The skin is cleansed and a topical anaesthetic is usually applied before treatment. The needling device is passed over the treatment area, and a topical may then be applied. Appointments usually take around 45 to 60 minutes including numbing time. A course of treatments is often recommended.

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Preparation and downtime

Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids and sun exposure for a few days beforehand, and arrive with clean skin. Downtime is usually limited to mild redness, generally easing within a day or two. Sun protection and non-irritating skincare are recommended afterwards.

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Risks and possible complications

Skin needling is a medical procedure and it carries risk, so it is worth knowing what can happen. Redness that looks like mild sunburn, warmth, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, tightness, dryness and flaking are normal in the first few days. Some people have a temporary breakout, and existing pigmentation can look more obvious before it improves. Less commonly you may notice prolonged redness or swelling, bruising, itching, small white bumps, or an irritant or allergic reaction to the numbing cream or to a topical applied afterwards. Because the skin barrier is temporarily open, infection is possible, including reactivation of cold sores, and spreading redness, increasing pain, pus or fever should be reported to us promptly. Changes in pigmentation, either darkening or lightening of the skin, can occur and are more likely in deeper skin tones or with sun exposure afterwards, so daily sun protection matters. Rare complications include scarring, track marks, granuloma formation, and a flare of an underlying skin condition such as eczema, rosacea, acne or melasma. Needling is not suitable if you have an active skin infection or inflammation in the area, if you are taking or have recently finished oral isotretinoin, if you have a history of keloid scarring or poor wound healing, if you are having radiotherapy or chemotherapy, or if you have certain bleeding or immune conditions, and it is generally avoided in pregnancy. A course of sessions is usually needed, changes build gradually, results vary from person to person and some people notice little difference. Josie will go through the risks that apply to you, how they are managed and what to do if you are concerned afterwards, before you give consent. You are welcome to call the clinic on (02) 9331 7228 with any questions.

 

Please note

An in-person consultation is required before any treatment. Results may vary from person to person. Potential risks, benefits and suitability are discussed with you before any treatment is provided.

Common questions

What actually happens during a microneedling appointment?

Numbing cream goes on first and sits for around 20 minutes. Then a device with very fine needles creates controlled micro-injuries across the treatment area. Allow 45 to 60 minutes in total — most of that is the numbing rather than the needling.

Does it hurt?

With topical numbing, most people describe a firm vibrating sensation rather than pain. The bonier areas — forehead, along the jaw, around the nose — are more sensitive than the cheeks.

What's the downtime?

Expect to look flushed, similar to moderate sunburn, for anywhere from 12 to 48 hours. Mild swelling overnight is common, and the skin can feel slightly sandpapery for a few days. If you have something on, leave at least three days clear.

When can I wear makeup again?

Leave the skin bare for the first 24 hours. Mineral makeup after that, and back to your normal routine from 48 hours.

How many sessions will I need?

It works as a course rather than a one-off — usually three to six sessions spaced four to six weeks apart, then occasional maintenance. We'll agree a plan at your assessment based on what you're actually trying to change.

Can I have it done in summer?

Yes, though sun exposure in the week afterwards is the main thing to manage. Daily SPF matters for a couple of weeks either side, and I'd rather reschedule than treat skin that has just been sunburnt.

Who isn't suitable?

Active breakouts or cold sores in the treatment area, current isotretinoin use, certain skin conditions, pregnancy, and a history of keloid scarring are all reasons to wait or take a different approach. We go through your history properly before anything is booked.

What's the difference between microneedling and a skin booster?

Microneedling works mechanically — controlled injury that prompts the skin's own repair process. Skin boosters are injected products that sit within the skin to hydrate it. They're often used alongside one another, but they're not the same thing and they suit different concerns.