Microneedling is one of the most requested treatments at Vianova, and one of the most misunderstood. People arrive having read that it is painful, or that it works instantly, or that the version with the expensive serum is always the one to choose. None of those are quite right. This article explains what the treatment does, what the three options on our menu involve, and how we decide together which one, if any, suits you.
What microneedling is
Microneedling uses a professional device fitted with a sterile, single-use cartridge of very fine needles. The device is passed across the skin, creating thousands of tiny, controlled channels in the upper layers. Those channels close within hours.
The point is not the channels themselves. It is the response they trigger. The skin treats each one as a small injury to repair, and that repair process involves producing new collagen and elastin over the following weeks. Done as a series, this gradual rebuilding is what may help improve how the skin looks and feels.
Because the needles are so fine and the depth is controlled, the surface of the skin is largely intact at the end of the appointment. This is why recovery is measured in days rather than weeks.
Who it may suit
People often ask about microneedling for:
- Uneven texture and rough skin
- The appearance of acne scarring
- Fine lines
- Enlarged looking pores
- Dull or tired looking skin
- Stretch marks
Whether it is appropriate for you depends on your skin, your health history and what you are hoping to achieve. That is assessed at your consultation. In some situations we will recommend waiting or choosing a different approach. Microneedling may not be appropriate during pregnancy or breastfeeding, with active acne, infection or inflammation in the area, with a tendency to keloid scarring, or with some medications.
The three options at Vianova
We offer microneedling at three levels. The device and the technique are the same for all three. The difference is what is applied to the skin while the channels are open.
Microneedling
The foundation treatment. Microneedling with a professional device, followed by a soothing, protective finish. The appointment is around 40 minutes. This is the right starting point for many people, and it is the option used in our Ageing Skin Program.
Comprehensive Microneedling
Microneedling with a professional PDRN serum applied during the treatment. PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide, small fragments of DNA, in this formula sourced from trout, blended with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants. Applying it while the channels are open allows it to reach beyond the surface. People often choose this option when hydration, texture or the appearance of acne scarring are the main concern. The appointment is around one hour.
Advanced Microneedling
Microneedling with a professional exosome serum applied during the treatment. Exosomes are tiny vesicles rich in proteins, growth factors and lipids, used here in a professional cosmetic serum. This is our most complete microneedling option and the one used in our Pigmentation Skin Program. The appointment is around one hour.
Current prices for all three are listed on our Skin & Scalp Treatments page and are confirmed with you at consultation before anything is booked.
How we choose between them
This is the part people find most useful, so we will be direct about it.
The most expensive option is not automatically the best one for you. The right choice depends on three things: what your skin needs, how it has responded to treatment before, and what you are comfortable investing in a course. If your main concern is early texture change and your skin is otherwise healthy, the foundation treatment may be entirely appropriate. If you are focused on dehydrated skin or acne scarring, the PDRN serum may be worth the step up. If uneven pigmentation is the priority, we are more likely to talk about the exosome option.
We will give you a recommendation and explain the reasoning. You decide.
Why it is done as a course
Collagen builds slowly. A single session produces a short lived glow, mostly from improved hydration and circulation, but the structural change that people are usually after comes from repeated sessions spaced far enough apart for the skin to recover fully between each one.
For most people that means a course of three sessions, four weeks apart. Some people benefit from more, and we will tell you if we think that is the case. Because of this, we offer each of the three options as a three session course at a reduced price. Courses are only recommended after a consultation confirms the treatment suits you, and their full terms are on our Treatment Packages page.
What the appointment is like
After cleansing, a topical numbing cream may be applied and left to take effect. Most people describe the treatment itself as a vibrating, scratchy sensation rather than pain, with some areas, such as the forehead and around the nose, feeling more sensitive than others. The treatment portion takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on the area. If you have chosen the Comprehensive or Advanced option, the serum is worked into the skin during this time. The skin is then soothed and protected, and you are given your aftercare instructions.
Recovery and what to expect afterwards
Expect your skin to look flushed, similar to mild sunburn, for one to three days. Some people notice dryness, tightness or light flaking for a few days after that. This is a normal part of the response, not a sign that something has gone wrong.
For the first 24 hours we ask you to avoid make-up, exercise, saunas, swimming and alcohol, and to keep your hands off your face. For the first week, cleanse gently, use a broad spectrum SPF 50+ every morning, and leave out active skincare such as retinol, vitamin C and acids until we tell you they can go back in. Our full guidance is on the Aftercare page.
Most people are comfortable being seen in public the next day and can wear make-up again after 24 to 48 hours.
Adding LED
LED light therapy can be added to a microneedling appointment. Red and near infrared light are thought to support the skin’s natural repair, and many people find it a soothing way to finish a more active treatment. As an add on it takes around 20 minutes and is priced lower than a stand alone LED session.
A few common questions
Does it hurt?
Sensations vary. A topical numbing cream may be used, and most people find the treatment very manageable.
How soon will I see a change?
Some people notice their skin looks brighter within a week, which is mostly hydration. Changes to texture or scarring, if they occur, build gradually over the course and the weeks that follow it. Individual outcomes vary.
Can I have microneedling if I have had treatment elsewhere?
Usually, yes. Let us know what you have had and roughly when, so we can plan the timing.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Sometimes. Our skin programs combine microneedling with carboxy therapy and LED. Whether a combination suits you is decided at consultation.
Is there anything I should do before my appointment?
Avoid retinol, exfoliating acids and self tanner for a few days beforehand, avoid sunburn, and arrive with clean skin where possible. We will go through this with you when you book.