Medical microneedling,
collagen reawakened

With numbing cream applied beforehand, most clients find microneedling very manageable. The sensation is typically described as a mild vibrating or scratching feeling with some pressure — more of a heightened sensation than pain. Some areas of the face (such as the forehead and around the mouth) can be slightly more sensitive than others. I always take time to ensure you’re comfortable before we begin, and the numbing cream is left on for long enough to be fully effective. Please don’t hesitate to ask for a pause at any point.

The initial redness — which resembles a sunburn — typically settles significantly within 12–24 hours, and most clients find it has largely resolved by day two. Some degree of mild pinkness can persist for up to 72 hours in those with more sensitive or reactive skin. I’ll always be honest with you about what to expect for your skin type before we proceed, so you can plan accordingly — particularly if you have a special event coming up.

The difference is significant. Home derma-rollers use rolling needles that drag and tear the skin as they move — which causes irregular micro-injuries and can increase the risk of scarring and infection. Medical microneedling uses an electronic pen device with reciprocating (up-and-down) needle motion, creating precise, consistent vertical channels at a controlled depth. The needles are single-use sterile, the depth can be adjusted by area, and the procedure is performed in a clinical setting with appropriate aftercare. The results from professional treatment are incomparably better — and significantly safer.

Yes — and very effectively. At Amber Grove, microneedling is often combined with specialist skin boosters (polynucleotides, Neofound or Purasomes) applied during treatment to be driven into the skin through the microchannels. LED phototherapy immediately after microneedling is also highly beneficial — it reduces redness and supports the healing and collagen-stimulating response. Chemical peels and other treatments should be spaced at least 4 weeks apart. I’ll build you a treatment plan that maximises your investment.

Microneedling is one of the most evidence-based treatments for acne scarring, and one I recommend frequently for this concern. It works by breaking down the fibrous scar tissue beneath the surface and stimulating new, healthy collagen to replace it. The degree of improvement depends on the type and depth of scarring — rolling and boxcar scars respond particularly well; ice-pick scars (very deep and narrow) may benefit from additional treatments like TCA cross alongside microneedling. For most clients with post-acne marks, a course of 3–6 sessions produces genuinely significant improvement. I’ll give you an honest assessment at consultation.