Microneedling: what it is

Microneedling (or percutaneous collagen induction) is a technique in which a device with very fine needles creates micro-punctures in the skin. The injury is minimal and controlled, but enough to activate healing. The body responds with temporary inflammation, tissue renewal and the production of new collagen, a process linked to neocollagenesis.

How does the stimulus work?

The small channels opened by the needle activate the fibroblasts, cells that make collagen and elastin. Within weeks, the skin may gain firmness and improve in texture, gradually and to a variable degree. The depth and the number of passes are defined by the professional, according to the area and the goal.

Another described use is making it easier for active ingredients applied to the skin to penetrate, as part of intradermotherapy protocols and topical care. This should also be indicated and carried out by a qualified professional.

What concerns is it usually considered for?

• uneven texture and visible pores;
• atrophic acne scars (see atrophic scar);
• mild signs of photoaging;
• support for the skin quality plan alongside other procedures.

It does not replace filler, toxin or threads, because it does not restore volume or reposition tissues. It is a surface and skin quality resource.

When does it call for more caution?

The technique causes inflammation, and that matters in some situations:

• melasma or a history of post-inflammatory dark spots: inflammation can reactivate the pigment;
• active acne vulgaris or skin infection: risk of spreading the condition;
• use of medications that affect healing;
• history of keloids or abnormal scarring;
• skin with a compromised barrier, dermatitis or active cold sores.

How do you combine it with an HOF plan?

Microneedling is an ally when the concern involves skin and not only structure. In a combined plan, the professional defines the order and the intervals between sessions, considering inflammation, swelling and sun protection. Compared with fractional laser, it is usually described as more accessible, although both require good judgment in the indication.

In Harmy

The app does not simulate texture, pores or scars: the prompt forbids skin retouching, and the projection changes only the marked areas by volume in ml, as an illustrative simulation. Therefore, no microneedling effect appears in the "After".

Also called: percutaneous collagen induction, dermaroller (the device's name).