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Writer's picturePaty Cholewczynski

Microneedling 101: My Research-Based Approach for Comfortable, Effective Treatments


Dermapen4 Microneedling Device

Hello, and welcome!


If you’ve been wondering about microneedling—how it works, whether numbing cream is necessary, and what sets Shoreline Glow apart—you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll walk you through research-backed insights on microneedling, explain the rationale behind my numbing cream strategy, and give you a look at everything that’s included in my Regular Microneedling Treatment. You’ll also learn about the unique add-ons and packages I offer to maximize your results.


What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling (also known as collagen induction therapy) involves using tiny, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. According to studies published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, these micro-injuries kickstart the body’s natural healing process, boosting collagen and elastin production. These are two proteins essential for maintaining skin’s firmness, smoothness, and radiant glow.


The Science Behind Numbing Cream

While many clinics use numbing cream for every microneedling session, research in the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology journal indicates there can be benefits to minimizing or skipping anesthetics—especially for seasoned clients.


Here’s why:


  1. First-Time Clients & Anxiety

    • Studies show that anxiety can heighten pain perception. For brand-new clients, a mild topical anesthetic can help ease first-time jitters and ensure a more comfortable introduction to microneedling.

  2. Pinpoint Bleeding as a Depth Indicator

    • In subsequent sessions, I often skip the anesthetic so I can observe pinpoint bleeding—an important visual cue that the microneedles have reached the papillary dermis. This layer is the sweet spot for collagen induction.

    • Topical anesthetics containing vasoconstrictors (like epinephrine) can reduce or eliminate this bleeding, potentially leading to over-treatment if the practitioner goes deeper in search of the “right” response.

  3. Gradual Tolerance

    • Many studies confirm that once clients are familiar with microneedling, they tend to report lower perceived pain levels. This means you might not need numbing cream after your first session or two.


Regular Microneedling Treatment at Shoreline Glow

I’m passionate about providing a comprehensive experience for every microneedling client.


Here’s what’s included in the pricing of a single treatment:


  • Professional Microneedling Treatment Using the Dermapen4 device, I create micro-channels in your skin to trigger collagen and elastin production.

  • HylaActive Sheet Mask Immediately post-needling, I place a soothing, hydrating HylaActive mask on your skin to help calm redness and provide an intense moisture boost for about 10-15 minutes.

  • Post Procedure Skin Care Kit Proper aftercare is crucial to protect your skin and enhance your microneedling results. Your kit includes products carefully chosen to nourish, soothe, and support your freshly treated skin.

  • Post Procedure Express Facial This complimentary facial is a hallmark of Shoreline Glow. It must be booked 14–17 days after your microneedling session, which is the optimal window to calm lingering redness, deeply hydrate, and support collagen remodeling. Many dermatology studies show that around two weeks post-treatment, your skin is still in a heightened phase of renewal—perfect timing for an express facial to turbocharge your results.


Enhance Your Results with Add-Ons

For those looking to take their microneedling session to the next level, I offer optional add-ons that can be booked the day of your treatment or during your Post Procedure Express Facial appointment.


Day of Treatment Add-Ons

  • LED Light Therapy Backed by studies in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology, LED therapy can enhance collagen production and accelerate wound healing, making it a perfect complement to microneedling.

  • Meso-Glide A specialized serum containing collagen, vitamins, antioxidants, and other beneficial ingredients. These microchannels created by the Dermapen allow deep penetration of the Meso-Glide solution for maximal benefits.


Day of Post Procedure Express Facial Add-Ons

  • LED Light Therapy Help boost skin rejuvenation and reduce redness during your recovery phase.

  • Neo-Massage Treatment A targeted, gentle massage technique to stimulate lymphatic flow, reduce inflammation, and encourage a faster healing response.

  • Ultrasound Infusion Uses sound waves to push active ingredients deeper into the skin, further enhancing the absorption of nourishing serums.

  • Tripollar Radiofrequency A non-invasive skin-tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to firm and lift. Great for boosting collagen synthesis in tandem with your microneedling.


Why Meso-Glides Are a Game-Changer as an Add-On

After creating those tiny microchannels, your skin is primed to absorb active solutions at a far higher rate. By choosing a Meso-Glide add-on:


  • Enhanced Absorption: Collagen, antioxidants, and vitamins penetrate deeply to support the body’s healing process.

  • Faster Collagen Stimulation: The synergy between the microneedling’s controlled injury and the nourishing serum offers better overall results, including a smoother texture and firmer skin.


Single Dermapen Treatments & Personalized Approach

I primarily offer Single Dermapen Treatments—perfect for those who want to experience microneedling on a per-session basis without any long-term commitment. If you’re a seasoned Dermapen fan or looking for multiple sessions to achieve more transformative results, I’m happy to discuss a customized treatment plan that fits your individual goals and schedule. Rather than structured packages, I prefer a more flexible, case-by-case approach, ensuring you receive the right level of care and guidance for your unique skincare journey.


Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Does microneedling hurt without numbing cream? Mild discomfort is common, but many clients describe it as tolerable—a prickly sensation. Once you’ve experienced the first session (often with a numbing cream), you’ll likely find subsequent sessions more comfortable.

  2. How soon will I see results? Some clients notice improvements in skin texture and brightness within the first week. However, full collagen remodeling takes several weeks to months, which is why multiple treatments often yield the best outcomes.

  3. What is the downtime like? Expect mild redness and sensitivity for 24–48 hours. By the time your complimentary Post Procedure Express Facial comes around (day 14–17), your skin will be ready for extra TLC—and you’ll love the refreshed glow afterward.

  4. Is microneedling safe for all skin types? Most skin types respond well. If you have specific concerns, such as active acne or rosacea, I’ll evaluate your skin to ensure microneedling is appropriate and tailor a plan that suits you.

  5. How often should I schedule microneedling treatments for optimal results?

    Most experts recommend spacing microneedling sessions about 4–6 weeks apart when doing a series, which gives your skin ample time to heal and maximize collagen production between treatments. Depending on your unique skin concerns, you might benefit from 3–6 sessions initially to see significant improvements in texture, tone, and firmness. After completing a full series, I generally advise scheduling maintenance treatments in the Spring and Fall. This biannual approach helps keep your skin in top condition year-round, ensuring you continue to enjoy the benefits of microneedling.


Ready to Revitalize Your Skin?

Backed by solid research, my goal at Shoreline Glow is to deliver effective, comfortable, and fully customized microneedling treatments. From a mild numbing cream for first-timers to pinpoint bleeding for depth feedback, everything I do is designed to optimize your experience—and your results.


Book Your Consultation Today Have questions or want to schedule a session? Reach out, and let’s create a personalized treatment plan that leaves you glowing from the inside out.


Thank you for reading—I can’t wait to help you experience the incredible, scientifically proven benefits of microneedling combined with my unique post-care express facial (and more) for your most radiant skin yet!




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