Microneedling
in NoMad, Manhattan

Not significantly. We apply a topical numbing cream 20-30 minutes before the treatment, which makes the procedure comfortable for the vast majority of clients. Most describe the sensation as a light scratching pressure. Areas closer to bone — forehead, nose bridge — can be slightly more sensitive. The treatment itself takes 20-40 minutes once numbed.

Your skin will look noticeably fresh and brighter about 7 days after treatment as initial cell turnover completes. Deeper structural improvements — firming, scar reduction, pore refinement — develop over 4-6 weeks as new collagen is synthesized. With a course of 3-5 sessions, clients typically notice cumulative improvement that builds with each treatment.

Dermapen, SkinPen, and similar names refer to specific medical-grade devices used to perform microneedling. They are all pen-style devices that do the same thing — create controlled micro-perforations. The quality of results depends far more on the practitioner's technique, needle depth selection, and the serum applied than on the specific brand of device. We use professional-grade medical devices with single-use sterile cartridges.

Yes — this is one of microneedling's significant advantages over laser treatments. Because microneedling uses mechanical action rather than heat or light energy, it does not selectively target melanin and is safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types (I-VI), including deeper skin tones. When working with darker skin, we use conservative depths and avoid aggressive passes over hyperpigmented areas to minimize any risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Yes — and both are completely normal, expected reactions that indicate your skin's healing process is working exactly as it should.

Redness: The vast majority of clients leave the studio with visibly pink or red skin — similar in appearance to a mild sunburn. This is a direct result of the controlled inflammatory response we've intentionally triggered. For most people, redness begins fading within a few hours and is largely gone by the following morning. In clients with more sensitive skin or who receive a deeper treatment, it can persist for up to 48 hours. It is not a cause for concern.

Flaking and peeling: Some clients (not all) notice light skin flaking or surface peeling on days 2-4 after treatment. This happens because microneedling dramatically accelerates cell turnover — old surface cells are being shed to make way for fresh, new skin. The flaking is typically subtle, not dramatic. The most important rule: do not pick, peel, or scrub — allow it to shed on its own. Moisturize gently with the recovery serum we provide and it will resolve within a day or two.

We recommend waiting at least 24-48 hours before applying makeup. The micro-channels in the skin remain open for several hours after treatment, and introducing bacteria or pigments from cosmetics into those channels can cause irritation or breakouts. Mineral makeup can typically be reintroduced on day 2 if redness is minimal. Avoid heavy or occlusive foundations for the first 72 hours.

Chemical peels work on the surface — they dissolve the outer layers of skin to trigger exfoliation and surface renewal. They're excellent for brightness, mild hyperpigmentation, and surface texture. Microneedling works deeper — it targets the dermis where collagen lives, making it more effective for structural concerns like scarring, laxity, and wrinkles. The two treatments are complementary and can be alternated as part of a comprehensive skincare plan.

Results from a course of microneedling can last 12-18 months depending on your skin's natural aging process, lifestyle factors (sun exposure, diet, stress), and whether you maintain a solid home skincare routine. Scar reduction results are typically permanent — once scar tissue is remodeled, it does not return. To maintain overall skin quality, we recommend a maintenance session every 3-4 months after your initial course.

Yes, but with careful timing. If you have had Botox or hyaluronic acid filler recently, we recommend waiting 2 weeks before microneedling in the same area. Conversely, after microneedling, wait at least 2 weeks before any injectable treatments. The two modalities work beautifully together as part of a comprehensive anti-aging plan — injectables address dynamic wrinkles and volume loss, while microneedling improves skin quality and texture.

Microneedling + Hyaluronic Acid focuses on hydration, plumping, and smoother texture. Microneedling + BioRepeel Cocktail is better suited for dullness, post-acne marks, uneven tone, and surface texture. Microneedling + Exosomes and Microneedling + Salmon DNA are advanced options for clients who need more regenerative support for visible texture, acne scarring, firmness, or signs of aging. Your esthetician will choose the protocol based on your skin condition and goals.