Microneedling — also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT) — is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses fine, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin’s surface. These tiny channels trigger the body’s natural wound-healing response, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin.
The result is smoother, firmer, more even-toned skin that improves progressively over a series of treatments. Microneedling has been used in dermatology for over two decades and has a strong evidence base for treating a wide range of skin concerns.
At Mirror Mirror Aesthetics, microneedling is performed by a Registered Nurse using medical-grade devices that allow precise depth control (0.5–2.5mm). This is a critical difference from home devices — professional-depth needling reaches the layers where collagen remodelling actually occurs.
Microneedling is one of the most versatile skin treatments available. Its ability to stimulate the body’s own healing response means it can address multiple concerns simultaneously.
By boosting collagen and elastin production, microneedling softens fine lines and improves overall skin firmness. It is particularly effective around the eyes, mouth and forehead — areas where early signs of ageing first appear.
Microneedling is considered a first-line treatment for atrophic acne scars (the indented, pitted scars left by acne). The controlled micro-injuries break down rigid scar tissue and replace it with new, healthy collagen. Multiple sessions are typically needed for significant improvement.
The skin turnover stimulated by microneedling helps disperse melanin clusters and promote more even pigment distribution. Combined with targeted serums, it can significantly improve sun spots, melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
As new collagen forms around pore openings, the supporting structure tightens and pores appear smaller and more refined. Overall skin texture becomes smoother and more uniform.
Microneedling can also improve the appearance of stretch marks and surgical scars on the body. The collagen remodelling process works the same way regardless of location.
| Concern | Improvement | Sessions Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Fine lines | Moderate to significant | 3–4 sessions |
| Acne scars | Significant (with course) | 4–6 sessions |
| Pigmentation | Moderate | 3–4 sessions |
| Enlarged pores | Moderate | 3–4 sessions |
| Stretch marks | Moderate | 4–6 sessions |
| General rejuvenation | Noticeable glow & firmness | 3 sessions |
Nurse’s tip: Microneedling pairs exceptionally well with targeted serums applied during treatment. The micro-channels created allow up to 80% deeper penetration of active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and growth factors — significantly amplifying their effect.
A microneedling session at Mirror Mirror follows a structured clinical protocol designed for both safety and optimal results.
Skin thoroughly cleansed & prepped
Topical anaesthetic applied 30 min prior
Medical-grade device at calibrated depth
Cooling mask & post-treatment serum
Your nurse will adjust the needle depth across different zones of the face — deeper on the cheeks where skin is thicker, shallower around the delicate eye and lip areas. This precision is only possible with medical-grade devices that offer calibrated depth settings.
Treatment takes 30–60 minutes depending on the area. Most clients describe the sensation as mild prickling or vibration — the numbing cream ensures comfort throughout.
Serum infusion: During treatment, we apply clinical-grade serums directly onto the skin. The thousands of micro-channels created act as pathways, delivering active ingredients to the deeper skin layers where they are most effective. This is something that cannot be achieved with topical application alone.
The rise of home derma rollers has created confusion about whether professional microneedling is necessary. Here is the honest comparison:
| Factor | Home Devices | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Needle depth | 0.1–0.25mm | 0.5–2.5mm |
| Collagen stimulation | Minimal | Significant |
| Treats acne scars | No | Yes |
| Treats wrinkles | Very mild improvement | Moderate to significant |
| Infection risk | Higher (reused needles) | Lower (single-use, sterile) |
| Product absorption | Slightly improved | Up to 80% deeper penetration |
| Downtime | None | 24–72 hours |
Home devices are not harmful when used correctly, but they simply cannot reach the depth required for meaningful collagen induction. They are best thought of as product-absorption enhancers rather than true microneedling treatments.
Important: If you use a home derma roller, replace the head every 3–5 uses to avoid blunt needles that cause unnecessary trauma. Never use a home device on active acne, broken skin or irritated areas. And never share your device with anyone.
The number of sessions depends on your primary concern and its severity. Here is a general guide:
Sessions are spaced 4–6 weeks apart to allow the skin to complete its healing and collagen-building cycle. Results are cumulative — each session builds on the last. Most clients notice visible improvement after their second treatment, with optimal results appearing 4–6 weeks after completing the full course.
After your initial course, maintenance sessions every 3–6 months help sustain the results and support ongoing collagen production.
Microneedling recovery is straightforward, but proper aftercare is essential to protect the skin while it heals and maximise your results.
Day 1: Skin will be red and warm, similar to mild sunburn. This is a normal inflammatory response. Avoid touching, washing or applying products for the first 4–6 hours (unless directed otherwise by your nurse).
Days 2–3: Redness subsides progressively. Some clients experience mild tightness or dryness. Use only the recommended gentle cleanser and moisturiser. No active ingredients (retinol, AHAs, vitamin C) for 5–7 days.
Days 4–7: Skin returns to normal. You may notice slight flaking as surface cells shed. A healthy glow often becomes visible around day 5–7.
Weeks 2–6: Collagen remodelling continues beneath the surface. Progressive improvement in texture, firmness and tone becomes increasingly visible.
Sun protection is non-negotiable. Your skin is more susceptible to UV damage after microneedling. Apply SPF 50+ every morning for at least two weeks post-treatment — even on cloudy days. This single step has the biggest impact on your long-term result.
| Treatment | Per Session | Course of 3 | Course of 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microneedling (face) | $250 – $350 | $675 – $945 | $1,275 – $1,785 |
| Microneedling + serum infusion | $300 – $450 | $810 – $1,215 | $1,530 – $2,295 |
| Microneedling (face + neck) | $350 – $450 | $945 – $1,215 | $1,785 – $2,295 |
Package pricing offers a saving of approximately 10% per session compared to individual bookings. Given that microneedling delivers cumulative results, most clients opt for a course from the outset. Your nurse will recommend the most appropriate plan based on your skin assessment.
Microneedling can also be combined with other treatments such as LED therapy, skin boosters or chemical peels as part of a broader skin rejuvenation programme.
We apply a topical numbing cream thirty minutes before treatment, so most clients find it very comfortable. The sensation is typically described as a mild tingling or vibration across the skin.
Initial improvements in skin texture and glow are often visible within one to two weeks of the first session. Collagen remodelling continues for several months, with the most significant results appearing after completing a full course of treatments.
We recommend avoiding makeup for at least twelve to twenty-four hours post-treatment to allow the micro-channels to close and reduce infection risk. Mineral makeup can usually be applied after twenty-four hours.
Book a complimentary consultation with our registered nurse. We\u2019ll discuss your goals and create a personalised treatment plan — no obligation.