Microneedling
Microneedling, also called percutaneous collagen induction therapy, is one of the classic and most effective non-surgical skin regeneration procedures in aesthetic dermatology. Ultra-fine, very sharp needles create thousands of vertical micro-channels in the skin without damaging the basement membrane or permanently destroying the surrounding tissue.
These micro-channels set the body's own healing response in motion: growth factors are released, fibroblasts multiply vigorously, and the collagen–elastin network is rebuilt from the deeper layers.
At Haute-Derma, microneedling is standardized with modern automated devices and paired as needed with high-grade bioactive ingredients such as PDRN, exosomes or PRP, making it an excellent option for acne scars, skin rejuvenation, enlarged pores and uneven texture.
How Microneedling Works: The Three Phases of Healing
The skin-rebuilding effect of microneedling unfolds over three physiological phases:
- Inflammation and signaling (day 1): As the needles pass through the epidermis into the dermis, they cause many tiny injuries to small blood vessels. Platelets respond by releasing key growth factors (such as TGF-beta, PDGF and VEGF), which draw in immune cells and monocytes to clear debris and signal the surrounding tissue to start regenerating.
- Proliferation (day 3 to week 3): Macrophages and fibroblasts migrate into the micro-channels. Driven by growth factors, fibroblasts produce large amounts of extracellular matrix, especially new type III collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans, which thicken the dermis and fill in the base of depressed scars.
- Remodeling and maturation (week 4 to several months): The initially fragile type III collagen is gradually replaced by sturdy type I collagen with elasticity and mechanical strength close to that of normal healthy skin, leaving the surface firmer and smoother with results that last.
Needle Depth and Clinical Indications
| Needle depth | Skin layer reached | Biological purpose and clinical effect |
|---|---|---|
| 0.25–0.5 mm | Superficial epidermis and papillary dermis. | Improves absorption of topical products and gently stimulates microcirculation. |
| 1.0–1.5 mm | Mid-dermis. | Strongly stimulates fibroblasts to make collagen and strengthens the skin's support framework. |
| 2.0–2.5 mm | Deep dermis. | Breaks up long-standing fibrous scar bands and rebuilds the extracellular matrix throughout. |
The Microneedling Procedure at Haute-Derma
To get the best results and keep infection risk tightly controlled, microneedling at Haute-Derma follows a strict protocol:
- Deep cleansing and topical numbing: The skin is cleansed, makeup removed, and a dedicated numbing cream applied for about 30–45 minutes so you stay comfortable with minimal stinging throughout.
- Disinfection and device settings: The skin is disinfected with a medical antiseptic. The doctor then sets the speed and needle depth of the automated pen (Dermapen) for each area of the face.
- Microneedling and active delivery: The pen is moved evenly in vertical, horizontal and diagonal passes. While the micro-channels are open, the doctor applies high-grade bioactives (such as exosomes, PDRN or PRP) directly to the skin so they penetrate into the dermis and boost recovery.
- Soothing and protection: A specialized mask combined with LED light therapy quickly calms redness, reduces inflammation and speeds up re-epithelialization.
Combination Treatment Plans at Haute-Derma
At Haute-Derma, microneedling is often paired with other advanced technologies to get the most out of scar treatment and rejuvenation:
- Acne scar protocol (fractional CO2 laser plus microneedling): Laser energy breaks down hard fibrous scar tissue, then microneedling delivers exosome or PDRN serum to stimulate new tissue from deep down. This shortens downtime as much as possible and gives the smoothest scar improvement.
- Multi-layer biological rejuvenation (microneedling plus PRP/exosomes): Suited to aging, thin or fragile skin with enlarged pores. It helps restore the collagen framework, firms the skin and gives a naturally smooth finish.
