A quick reference guide for cosmetic, shallow depth microneedling
What You Need
- Dr. Pen microneedling device or similar
- 36-pin cartridge
- 70% isopropyl alcohol or hypochlorous acid
- Skin booster
- Disposable cloth or paper towel (for setting down clean instruments)
- Optional: numbing cream, disposable gloves
Directions
1. Choose Your Treatment Area
Face, neck, chest, or all three.
2. Optional: Apply Numbing Cream
Apply lidocaine if you’re sensitive. This can often be skipped once you’re used to the sensation.
3. Clean Your Skin Thoroughly
- Wipe off any numbing cream
- Use 70% alcohol or hypochlorous acid spray
- Wash your hands — gloves are optional
4. Set Up Your Microneedling Pen
- Set depth to 0 before starting
- Attach a new needle cartridge
- 36-pin cartridges are ideal for cosmetic microneedling
5. Adjust Needle Depth
- 0.25 mm: forehead, nose, around eyes
- 0.50 mm: cheeks, lips, chin, jawline, neck
6. Apply Your Serum Booster
- Work in small sections
- Apply serum → needle → apply serum again
7. Begin Needling
- Set speed (4 is a good starting point)
- Adjust depth by area as needed
8. Repeat Across All Areas
Repeat the serum + needling process for each section of the face or body.
9. Monitor Your Endpoint
Aim for pink skin, not bleeding
- Light pinpoint bleeding is OK
- Heavy bleeding means you’re going too deep
10. Use the Full Vial
Reapply serum over treated areas as long as your skin continues to absorb it.
11. When Finished
- Dispose of the used needle cartridge
- Wipe down your device
- Let skin rest for 15–30 minutes
- Apply post-care serums (e.g., Calecim, HA, or soothing products)
Video Reference
YouTube playlist for microneedling:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfUWs1dRjGEicvmQac67VdGm10t6NBdO4&si=u8KHASNiMtvW2oF2