Does Microneedling Hurt? What to Expect During Your First Session
Does microneedling hurt? Microneedling is mildly uncomfortable but extremely tolerable, and it doesn’t hurt. Microneedling is a common aesthetic procedure that enhances your skin and complexion.
Microneedling has quickly become one of the most in-demand skin treatments on the market, and for good reason, too! As the “clean girl aesthetic” continues to influence beauty trends, more people are moving away from overfilled lips and cheeks and instead opting for treatments that support healthy, natural-looking skin, releasing their inner beauty.
Microneedling isn’t a new procedure, but it is gradually becoming more and more popular as it is designed to enhance your skin rather than change your features. It’s all about improving texture, boosting glow and restoring that fresh, effortless look.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is an advanced skin treatment that works by stimulating your skin’s natural repair process. It uses a medical-grade device that creates thousands of tiny controlled (and safe!) micro-injuries in the surface layers of the skin.
These micro-injuries trigger your body’s healing response, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin. These are both pieces of the puzzle responsible for firming your skin, making it smooth and youthful.
Microneedling is most commonly performed on the face and neck and is suitable for a range of skin troubles, from early signs of ageing to acne scarring.
What device is used for microneedling?
To carry out a microneedling treatment, a device is used that is covered with sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin’s surface.
Why do we use SkinPen for microneedling
At Immaculate Touch, we use SkinPen, a medical-grade microneedling device that is raved about for its precision, safety and consistent results!
While there are multiple microneedling devices out on the market, SkinPen is widely recognised for delivering controlled and accurate treatments. It has advance technology that allows it to create up to 90,000 micro-channels per minute, ensuring even and optimal results!
This level of precision means treatments can be tailored specifically to your skin, making the experience effective and above all else, safe. This allows for better stimulation of collagen production, leading to smoother, stronger and more radiant skin.
Why choose microneedling?
Microneedling is a results-driven treatment that improves the overall skin quality rather than just targeting one problem area.
The key benefits include:
- Softening fine lines and wrinkles
- Improving the overall skin tone and texture
- Reducing the appearance of pores
- Fading acne scars and pigmentation
- Enhancing skin firmness and elasticity
By prompting your skin to repair itself naturally, microneedling strengthens the deeper layers of the skin. This results in thicker, healthier dermis and a more refined, youthful appearance – what more could you want!
Does microneedling hurt?
This is one of the most common questions we are asked in the clinic – this is completely understandable. If you have been wondering “microneedling does it hurt” or questioning whether microneedling is painful or not, the reassuring answer is that the treatment is very manageable.
The sensation of microneedling is best described as a mild discomfort rather than pain. Most clients say it feels like light scratching or tingling across the skin.
To ensure your comfort, a topical numbing cream is applied before the treatment begins. This significantly reduces any discomfort, even in more sensitive areas such as the forehead or around the nose.
While certain areas may feel slightly more intense than others, the treatment is generally very manageable. Many clients are genuinely surprised by how quick and comfortable the experience is.
Overall, microneedling is far less painful than most would expect, and the results make it well worth the temporary discomfort!
What to expect during your first session
Before your treatment
Your appointment will begin with a thorough cleanse to remove any makeup or impurities. A numbing cream will then be applied to ensure maximum comfort throughout the treatment process.
We will then assess your skin and tailor the treatment to your own individual concerns and talk you through all the next steps.
During the procedure
The treatment itself typically takes around 45 minutes.
The SkinPen will be moved across your skin in a controlled, precise pattern, you may feel a slight vibration or light scratching sensation, along with mild pressure.
Areas such as the forehead can feel a little more sensitive, but overall, the treatment remains comfortable.
After the treatment
Immediately after your session, your skin may appear red, similar to sunburn, but don’t panic. This is completely normal and usually settles within a couple of days.
You may also experience the following:
- Slight swelling
- Warmth or tightness
- Mild sensitivity
Recovery time is typically 2-3 days, making this a very convenient treatment with minimal downtime.
Cost, Time, Pain and Recovery
Cost : From £150
Procedure Time : Approximately 45 Minutes
Pain : Mild
Recovery Time : 2-3 Days
When will you see results?
Your skin will begin healing immediately after the treatment, but visible improvements develop over time.
Most clients notice results within 4-6 weeks, as collagen production increases and the skin becomes smoother and more refined.
For optimal results, a course of treatments may be recommended depending on your skin goals.
Who is not suitable for microneedling
Microneedling is generally suitable for most, including breastfeeding women. However, it may not be appropriate for you
- Have an active skin infection or rash, such as eczema
- Are prone to keloid scarring,
A consultation will always be carried out to ensure this treatment is right for you and your skin goals.
Aftercare advice
To protect your skin and maximise your results
- Avoid makeup for a minimum of 24 hours
- Wear SPF daily (No if, buts or maybes!)
- Keep your skincare routine gentle and hydrating
- Avoid active ingredients for a few days, such as Retinol and Hyaluronic acid
Your skin will be more sensitive after the treatment, so proper aftercare is absolutely essential!
Do’s and Don’ts after microneedling
Following the correct do and don’ts after microneedling is essential to protect your skin, support healing, and achieve the best possible results.
Do:
- Keep your skin well hydrated after treatment
- Use a gentle cleanser within the first 24 hours
- Apply only products recommended by your practitioner
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50 daily, especially in the days following treatment
- Allow your skin to heal and recover naturally
- Contact your practitioner if you have any concerns after your treatment
Don’t:
- Wear makeup for at least 24 hours after treatment
- Use active skincare ingredients (such as retinoids or vitamin C) for the first week
- Use exfoliating products or harsh cleansers
- Expose your skin to direct heat, including saunas or hot environments
- Engage in excessive exercise for 72 hours (to avoid sweating and irritation)
- Pick, scratch, or irritate the treated area
Additional Aftercare Advice:
- Some redness and sensitivity is completely normal and should settle within a few days
- Mild dryness or tightness may occur as your skin begins to heal
- Consistent aftercare plays a key role in your final results
Why this matters:
This aftercare follows professional SkinPen post-procedure guidelines, ensuring your treatment is not only fully effective, but also safe for your skin!
Frequently asked questions
Microneedling: does it hurt more in certain areas?
Yes, some areas such as the forehead may feel slightly more sensitive, but the discomfort is minimal.
Do’s and don’ts after microneedling – are they actually important?
Yes, following the aftercare provided is absolutely essential to protect your skin and maximise the results for glowing skin!
Does microneedling hurt on sensitive skin?
If you’re wondering “does microneedling hurt on sensitive skin?”, you would be right to have your concerns. Booking a consultation with us here at Immaculate Touch is the best way to ensure you are suitable for microneedling treatments.
Final thoughts
So, does microneedling hurt? While there may be some mild discomfort, it is a highly tolerable treatment, especially with the use of numbing cream.
At Immaculate Touch, using advanced technology like SkinPen ensures your treatment is both effective and comfortable, delivering great results with minimal downtime.
If you’re looking to improve your skin in a natural, results-driven way, microneedling is a powerful treatment that fits perfectly into a modern “clean girl” skincare routine.