Microneedling

As we age, our skin naturally changes. Cell turnover gradually slows, and the production of collagen and elastin, the proteins that help keep skin firm, smooth and supple declines. Over time, this can contribute to fine lines, wrinkles, reduced elasticity, changes in skin texture and a loss of firmness.Sun exposure also plays a major role in skin ageing. Years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage collagen and elastin, contribute to uneven pigmentation, and cause premature signs of ageing. Daily sun protection helps minimise this damage and protect the skin over time.Other factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, lifestyle and previous skin conditions, can also affect the appearance and health of our skin. These may contribute to concerns such as enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, dehydration, scarring and changes in skin texture. Conditions such as acne and rosacea can also affect the skin, although they have different causes and may require specific treatment approaches.Skincare products play an important role in maintaining healthy skin. Moisturisers help hydrate the outer skin layer, while certain active ingredients can support skin renewal and improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture and pigmentation. However, their effectiveness depends on the ingredients, formulation, molecular weight and how they act within the skin.As some skin concerns involve changes deeper within the skin, topical skincare alone may not address every concern. Treatments such as microneedling aim to stimulate the skin’s natural repair processes and support collagen production, improving the appearance of fine lines, skin texture, enlarged pores and certain types of scarring.Every person's skin is different. A consultation helps determine the cause of your concerns and whether microneedling is an appropriate option for your skin.​

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT), works by stimulating the skin’s natural repair processes. A specialist device with fine needles creates tiny, controlled punctures in the skin, triggering the skin's wound-healing response to stimulate collagen production and support skin renewal.The needle depth is adjusted according to the treatment area, skin concern and individual suitability. Shallower settings may be used for more superficial concerns, while deeper settings may be appropriate for certain types of scarring when clinically suitable.How Does Microneedling Stimulate Collagen?The controlled micro-injuries trigger the skin’s natural wound-healing response, involving the release of growth factors and the activation of cells called fibroblasts. These cells play an important role in producing collagen, including type I and type III collagen, which help support the skin’s structure and repair.As the skin heals and remodels over time, this process can improve skin firmness, elasticity and texture, as well as the appearance of fine lines, enlarged pores and some scarring. Results develop gradually and vary from person to person; a course of treatments is recommended.Is Microneedling Comfortable?Microneedling is very well tolerated and a popular treatment at Westfield Clinic. Comfort levels vary depending on the treatment area, needle depth and individual sensitivity. You may experience mild discomfort and a little redness during or after treatment.We do not recommend at-home microneedling or dermarollers, as incorrect use can increase the risk of skin irritation, infection and scarring.Why Do We Use Serums During Microneedling?Carefully selected products help the microneedling device glide smoothly over the skin while providing ingredients intended to support hydration, skin quality and rejuvenation. The product we recommend depends on your skin concerns, treatment goals and budget.We offer three product options for microneedling:1) FILLMED NCTF® 135HA (the page you are reading) contains 59 active ingredients, including vitamins, amino acids and hyaluronic acid. Its main benefits are improved skin hydration, radiance and elasticity, and a smoother-looking complexion with reduced visible fine lines.2) Vitaran® contains polynucleotides derived from fish DNA, to support skin regeneration and repair processes. Its main benefits include supporting skin quality and elasticity and improving the appearance of uneven texture and acne scarring.3) INNO-EXOMA® EXO-SKIN Exosomes for skin recovery and rejuvenation. Its intended benefits include supporting skin renewal and improving the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture and dullness.Each option uses a different product formulation with its own intended benefits. Read our microneedling comparison blog to learn more.Clinical EvidenceMicroneedling has been studied for a range of skin concerns, including acne scarring, wrinkles and sun-related skin changes. Research suggests it can improve the appearance of selected concerns. You can read a published review of the research on microneedling and its clinical applications.

More than microneedling — a skin-prepping and soothing facial is included too!Every treatment at Westfield Clinic is tailored to your skin concerns and chosen product. Your appointment includes:Consultation and skin assessment – We discuss your skin concerns, treatment goals and suitability before beginning.Double cleanse – Your skin is thoroughly cleansed to remove makeup, oil and impurities.Skin preparation – A suitable FILLMED gentle superficial chemical peel may be used to prepare the skin, where appropriate for your treatment.Skin sanitisation – The treatment area is prepared in accordance with our hygiene protocol.Your chosen treatment product – Depending on your booking, we use FILLMED NCTF® 135HA, Vitaran® Polynucleotides or INNO-EXOMA® EXO-SKINProfessional microneedling – The treatment is tailored to your skin concerns, with device settings selected according to the treatment area and clinical suitability.Cooling sheet mask – Enjoy a soothing mask selected from options featuring ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, collagen, peptides and ceramides.Cooling ice globes – Gentle cooling helps soothe and calm the skin.Moisturiser and SPF – Suitable hydrating and protective products are applied to finish your treatment.

No. There may be some very mild discomfort but the treatment is generally very well tolerated; most describe it as a little scratchy at times. Microneedling should not cause blood spots. It is not advised to use numbing cream pre-treatment, as numbing cream causes vasoconstriction of superficial vessels.

After microneedling, it is normal for your skin to appear a little pink, similar to mild sunburn. This usually settles within 24–48 hours, although can occasionally last up to three days or longer.You may also experience:Mild swelling or blotchiness, which generally settles within 24–48 hoursSkin sensitivity, tightness or warmth, particularly during the first 24–48 hours.Dryness or light flaking as the skin recovers.Minor bruising, although very rare, it's always a possibility, i.e., around the eyesPinpoint bleeding, although unusual, it depends on the depth and indication ie when treating scars.More significant complications, such as infection, prolonged inflammation, scarring or changes in pigmentation, are uncommon but possible.Planning an event? We recommend allowing at least 48–72 hours for initial redness and swelling to settle before an important event. Your recovery may take longer, particularly following a more intensive treatment.Follow the aftercare instructions you will be given carefully (also available on this page) and contact Westfield Clinic if you have concerns about your recovery. Seek prompt medical advice if you develop worsening pain, increasing redness or swelling, spreading warmth, pus, blistering or a fever.

Yes! Combining microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) is an option for clients looking to improve the appearance of acne scarring, uneven skin texture and skin laxity.Microneedling stimulates the skin’s natural repair processes and supports collagen production, while RF uses controlled heat to target deeper skin tissues and stimulate collagen remodelling. When appropriate for your skin and treatment goals, these treatments may complement each other to help improve the appearance of skin firmness, texture and overall rejuvenation.Save 50% on RF when combined with microneedling.We recommend a course of RF alongside microneedling to achieve the best possible results, with the number and spacing of sessions tailored to your needs and skin response.Find out more about our RF treatments:Heat-Wave FaceHeat-Wave Body

The number of microneedling treatments you need will depend on your skin concerns, treatment goals and how your skin responds.For general skin rejuvenation, a course of around 6+ treatments is usually recommended, typically spaced 4–6 weeks apart. More persistent concerns, such as acne scarring or pronounced skin texture changes, may require a longer course.Microneedling stimulates the skin’s natural repair processes and collagen remodelling, which develop gradually over time. You may notice improvements after your first few treatments, with further changes developing over the following weeks and months. Results are cumulative. We find that our clients love the effect of microneedling so much that this treatment has now replaced their monthly facial, as the benefits of regular treatments keep building collagen, strengthening, and thickening the skin.Results vary from person to person.Maintaining Your ResultsOnce you have completed your initial course, occasional maintenance treatments help to maintain improvements in skin texture and overall appearance. Depending on your skin and treatment goals, this may mean continuing every 6 weeks, or one or two treatments a year.Supporting Your Skin at HomeA suitable homecare routine can complement your treatment plan by helping to maintain hydration, support the skin barrier and protect against further sun damage.We offer a range of FILLMED skincare products to support your skincare routine. Clinic clients receive 10% off our homecare range when having treatments with us.During your consultation, we’ll discuss your concerns and recommend a treatment schedule and homecare routine suited to your skin.

At Westfield Clinic, your safety is our priority. Before treatment, you will complete a medical questionnaire so we can assess your suitability, identify any potential risks and determine whether microneedling is appropriate for you.We take infection prevention seriously. Your skin is carefully assessed, cleansed and prepared before treatment. We use a professional CE-marked microneedling device with sterile, single-use needle cartridges, which are disposed of after each treatment. Our equipment and hygiene procedures follow the relevant manufacturer instructions and clinical protocols.Microneedling is generally very well tolerated, but temporary mild redness, swelling, sensitivity or pinpoint bleeding can occur. As with any treatment that punctures the skin, there is also a risk of complications, including infection, scarring and changes in pigmentation. We will explain the potential risks, although minimal and the aftercare advice before proceeding with treatment.Although the needles are small and contained within the device cartridge, you may still feel some slight discomfort during treatment. If you have concerns about needles or sensitivity, please let us know during your consultation so we can discuss what to expect and put you at ease.We use a professional microneedling device and do not recommend the use of microneedling rollers. Microneedling is a popular treatment at Westfield Clinic, with many of you returning time and time again for the treatment.Treatment is always tailored to your skin concerns and individual suitability.

Microneedling may help improve the appearance of certain types of scars and stretch marks by stimulating the skin’s wound-healing response and promoting collagen remodelling. It may be suitable for concerns such as acne scarring, chickenpox scars and stretch marks, although results depend on the type, age, severity and characteristics of the treated area.How Does Microneedling Work?Scars and stretch marks involve structural changes within the dermis, the layer of skin beneath the outer epidermis. Stretch marks, also known as striae, develop when the skin is stretched and the structure of its collagen and elastin fibres is altered. This can occur during pregnancy, growth spurts or significant changes in body size.Microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, initiating a wound-healing response. This involves inflammatory signalling, the activation of fibroblasts and the production and reorganisation of extracellular matrix components, including collagen. Over time, this remodelling process may improve skin texture and reduce the visibility of certain scars and stretch marks.Needle depth is selected according to the treatment area, the type of scarring and individual suitability. The Three Phases of Skin HealingThe skin’s response to microneedling involves three overlapping phases:1. InflammationFollowing the controlled micro-injuries, the body initiates an inflammatory response. Immune cells and signalling molecules help coordinate tissue repair and activate the processes involved in healing.2. ProliferationFibroblasts contribute to the production of new extracellular matrix components, including collagen. New tissue forms, and blood vessel activity supports the repair process.3. RemodellingThe newly formed collagen is reorganised and remodelled over time. Changes in the structure and arrangement of collagen fibres may improve the appearance, texture and firmness of the treated skin.These processes occur gradually, which is why improvements may continue to develop for weeks or months after treatment.Can Radiofrequency Improve Results?Radiofrequency (RF) delivers controlled thermal energy to tissue, stimulating processes associated with collagen remodelling. RF can complement microneedling when addressing selected scars or concerns involving skin laxity.What Results Can I Expect?It is important to have realistic expectations when treating scars and stretch marks. Microneedling may improve their appearance by supporting collagen remodelling and changes in skin texture, but it cannot guarantee complete removal.Older, established stretch marks, particularly those that have become pale or silvery, can be more challenging to improve. A course of treatments is recommended.During your consultation, we will assess your skin, discuss your expectations and determine whether microneedling, radiofrequency or a combination of treatments may be suitable.​​

After microneedling, your skin needs time to recover before undergoing other aesthetic treatments. The recommended interval depends on the intensity of your microneedling treatment, your skin’s healing response and the procedure you wish to have next.The timings below are general guidance. Your practitioner may recommend a different interval depending on your individual circumstances. Your skin must be fully recovered, with no persistent redness, irritation or broken skin, before another treatment is performed.TreatmentSuggested minimum interval after microneedlingAnti-wrinkle injections (toxin)2 weeksHyaluronic acid dermal fillers2 weeksBio-stimulators such as Sculptra® and Radiesse®Confirm with your treating practitioner; a longer interval, such as 4 weeks, may be advisedDermabrasion8 weeksMicrodermabrasion1–2 weeksMedium chemical peels 3 weeksDeep chemical peels8 weeks+ brand dependingIPL (intense pulsed light)2–4 weeksLaser hair removal2 weeksAblative laser resurfacingAt least 8 weeks, subject to clinical assessmentGeneral facial, hydrafacial1–2 weeksTretinoin, retinol and other topical retinoidsRestart only when the skin barrier has recovered and irritation has settled; follow your prescriber’s advice. Likely 8 weeksElectrolysis1–2 weeksWaxing, tweezing or depilatory creams1–2 weeksSelf-tanning productsAround 1 week, once the skin has recoveredSkin Booster injections1–2 weeksImportant adviceDo not rely on timing alone. Your skin must have healed adequately before you undergo another treatment.Check before combining treatments. Some procedures require longer recovery periods, particularly deeper peels, dermabrasion and laser resurfacing.Follow your skincare advice. Avoid restarting active ingredients, such as retinoids and exfoliating acids, until your skin has recovered. If you use prescription tretinoin, ask your prescriber when to restart it and whether it should be paused before your next procedure.Other procedures may need to be delayed if the skin is still red, tender, peeling or irritated, even when the suggested interval has passed.Tell your practitioner about recent treatments. Always disclose when you last had microneedling and which product was used.If you are unsure whether it is safe to proceed with another treatment, contact your practitioner for individual advice.

Post-Treatment Advice  - Microneedling • Avoid touching the treated area with unwashed hands until the skin has settled. Do not pick, rub, or pull the skin. Redness typically subsides within 24–36 hours. • Cleanse gently on the evening of treatment using a mild, soap-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Do not rub, massage, or scrub the skin for at least 1 week. Pat dry only with a clean towel. • Apply a hydrating, barrier-supporting moisturiser for at least 1 week, as dryness or tightness is normal. Hyaluronic acid and aloe vera are recommended. • Avoid fragranced products for 3–5 days, as these may cause irritation. • Avoid all active skincare for at least 5 days, including AHAs (glycolic, lactic, malic acids), BHAs (salicylic acid), retinoids (retinol, retinal, tretinoin), benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, kojic or azelaic acid (high strength), and low pH vitamin C. • Do not apply makeup for 72 hours (eye makeup is fine). Ensure all brushes and sponges are thoroughly cleaned before use. • Avoid exercise, sweating, and strenuous activity for 24 hours to reduce infection risk. • Do not swim for at least 72 hours (ideally 1 week). Avoid chlorinated water for 2 weeks. • Avoid heat and UV exposure for 2 weeks, including sunbeds, saunas, steam rooms, and prolonged direct sunlight. • Apply SPF 30+ daily for at least 2 weeks, with regular reapplication, to reduce the risk of pigmentation. • Avoid waxing, bleaching, electrolysis, depilatory creams (1–2 weeks), and laser/IPL (2–4 weeks) on the treated area. • Keep items that touch the face clean, including mobile phones and glasses.  Expected ReactionsCommon reactions include redness, flushing, tightness, itching, tenderness, stinging, swelling, and occasionally mild pinpoint bleeding. These usually resolve within 24 hours, but may last up to 1–4 days in some cases. There is a small risk of more significant reactions, including pronounced redness, swelling, blistering, peeling, and later crusting or scabbing. In rare cases, infection or ulceration may occur, although this is unlikely due to the sterile, minimally invasive nature of the procedure. Mild bruising may occur, particularly around the eye area. This is temporary. The risk may be increased in clients taking medications or supplements that affect blood clotting or platelet function, and small petechiae (tiny red or purple spots) may also be seen. There is a small risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, although this is uncommon as the epidermis remains intact. Failure to follow SPF guidance increases this risk. As with any topical or medical-grade product, there is a small risk of sensitivity or allergic reaction.  If you had Polynucleotide Microneedling.Follow all advice, with additional:Polynucleotides are used to support skin regeneration and healing. As they are derived from fish sources, they are not suitable for individuals with fish allergies. Mild additional redness or swelling may occur compared to standard microneedling and can last slightly longer. Results develop gradually over several weeks as collagen and cellular repair processes occur, and a course of treatments may be required for optimal outcomes. Avoid combining with other aesthetic treatments unless advised by your practitioner. If you had Exosome Microneedling.Follow all advice, with additional:Exosomes are used to support skin regeneration and repair by enhancing cellular communication and recovery processes. They are generally well tolerated, however mild additional redness or sensitivity may occur compared to standard microneedling and can last slightly longer. Results develop gradually over several weeks as the skin responds to regenerative signalling, and a course of treatments may be required for optimal outcomes. Avoid combining with other aesthetic treatments unless advised by your practitioner. If you also had Radio-Frequency.Follow all advice, with additional:Immediately after treatment skin may feel warm, tight, or mildly sensitive for up to 24–48 hours and should settle within this time. Slight swelling or pinpoint redness may occur in some clientsIf redness, swelling, or sensitivity occurs apply a cool (not ice-cold) compress for short intervals as needed.Avoid rubbing, scrubbing, or massaging the treated area.Avoid strenuous exercise if skin is still red or hot.Drink plenty of water to support recovery.If any scabbing occurs, do not pick or scratch. Allow it to heal and fall away naturally to reduce the risk of scarring or pigmentation changes. If itchy, a cool compress or gentle moisturiser may be applied. When to contact the clinic / seek advice• Redness lasting longer than 72 hours or is spreading• Blistering, crusting, or broken skin• Increasing pain, swelling, or heat• Pus, or yellow discharge• Any unusual or worsening reactionGood quality skincare products applied after microneedling (such as serums) work best when applied within the first 24- 48 hours. After that, all the microchannels that were made are completely closed. When choosing skincare products to apply after microneedling, opt for products with a high purity of ingredients, low-irritants and hydrating ingredients (Hyaluronic Acid is amazing)​, and we highly recommend Fillmed Skincare for home use.

At Westfield Clinic, the microneedling procedure is tailored to your skin concerns, with three product options available. You can choose standard microneedling with FILLMED NCTF® 135HA, polynucleotide Microneedling with Vitaran®, or exosome microneedling with INNO-EXOMA® EXO-SKIN.Each product has a different formulation and intended purpose, so the most suitable option depends on your skin, treatment goals and budget.1. Regular Microneedling – Hydration and RadianceProduct: FILLMED NCTF® 135HAFILLMED NCTF® 135HA is a polyrevitalising solution containing 59 active ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, vitamins, amino acids and other components.How it works: Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture, while the formulation is designed to support skin quality and revitalisation.Ideal for: Dull or dehydrated skin, uneven texture, enlarged pores and the appearance of early fine lines.Speed and longevity: Improvements in hydration and radiance may be noticeable relatively soon, although results vary. Benefits are not permanent, and a course of treatments and maintenance may be recommended.Cost: Our standard, more budget-friendly option.Vegan suitability: Yes2. Polynucleotide Microneedling – Skin Repair and TextureProduct: Vitaran® PolynucleotidesPolynucleotides are purified DNA-derived molecules. Vitaran® polynucleotides are fish-derived and are used in aesthetic treatments intended to support skin repair and regeneration.How they work: Polynucleotides influence fibroblast activity and processes involved in tissue repair and extracellular matrix remodelling.Ideal for: Clients concerned about uneven skin texture, skin quality, elasticity and the appearance of certain types of acne scarring.Speed and longevity: Results develop gradually as the skin responds and remodels. Improvements may continue to develop over the weeks following treatment.. Results and their duration vary between individuals.Vegan suitability: Not suitable for vegans as the product contains fish-derived DNA.3. Exosome Microneedling – Skin Regeneration and RejuvenationProduct: INNO-EXOMA® EXO-SKINExosomes are extracellular vesicles found naturally in our skin involved in cell-to-cell communication. Exosome-based products are designed to support skin recovery and rejuvenation.How they work: Exosome-based products deliver signalling molecules that influence cellular responses associated with skin recovery and renewal, with powerful anti-inflammatory healing benefits.Ideal for: Clients seeking to address dullness, uneven texture and the visible signs of skin ageing.Speed and longevity: Initial effects may be subtle, with improvements developing over time. The duration of benefits depends on the individual response.Manufacturer's claims: INNO-EXOMA® describes its EXO-SKIN product as clinically proven to prevent and reverse all signs of skin ageing. Vegan suitability: Yes We get fantastic results when clients alternate between a course of 3 Polynucleotide Microneedling and a course of 3 Exosome Microneedling! As well as incorporating Skin Booster injections twice yearly (skin boosters deeply hydrate and give skin 'Glow').Not sure which option is right for you? Read our comprehensive comparison of FILLMED NCTF® 135HA, Vitaran® polynucleotides and exosome-based products, or book a consultation to discuss your skin concerns and treatment options.

To help prepare your skin and minimise the risk of irritation, please follow these guidelines before your appointment.Two weeks before: Avoid chemical peels, laser/IPL, injectable treatments and other beauty or aesthetic treatmentsAt least one week before:Avoid topical retinoids, including retinol, Retin-A (tretinoin) and other vitamin A-based skincare products, on the area to be treated.Avoid waxing, electrolysis and depilatory creams on the treatment area.Avoid exfoliating products, including AHAs, BHAs and other active skincare ingredients.24hrs before:Avoid alcohol as it can increase bruising and bleeding.Sun exposure and skin condition:Avoid sunbeds, sunbathing and prolonged, unprotected sun exposure before your appointment. Do not attend for treatment with sunburnt, recently irritated skin.Avoid treatment if the area has cuts, abrasions, an active infection, cold sores or significant irritation. Medication and medical history:Please inform us of any changes in health or medications. Do not stop or change prescribed medication without first consulting your GP or prescribing healthcare professional.On the day of treatment:Arrive with clean skin, free from makeup and skincare products on the area to be treated. If you are unsure whether a product or recent treatment could affect your appointment, please contact us beforehand.

Microneedling, skin boosters and injected polynucleotides can all help improve skin quality, but they work in different ways and are suited to different concerns.Microneedling – Collagen Support and Skin TextureMicroneedling uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating the body’s natural wound-healing response and supporting collagen remodelling. Improvements develop gradually over the following weeks and months, and a course of treatments may help maintain results.At Westfield Clinic, we offer three product options during microneedling, selected according to your skin concerns and treatment goals:FILLMED NCTF® 135HA – focuses on hydration, radiance and overall skin quality.Vitaran® Polynucleotides – intended to support skin repair and improve the appearance of skin texture.INNO-EXOMA® EXO-SKIN – an exosome-based product designed to support skin recovery and rejuvenation.Microneedling may be particularly suitable if your concerns include uneven texture, enlarged pores, early fine lines or certain types of acne scarring.Skin Boosters – Hydration and RadianceSkin boosters are injectable treatments that deliver hydrating ingredients, commonly hyaluronic acid, into the skin. They are often described as an injectable “skin moisturiser” because they help improve skin hydration, softness and radiance.Results may become noticeable over the first few days to weeks, depending on the product. A course of three treatments is often recommended. Some products may provide benefits for several months, with maintenance treatments often considered around six months.Skin boosters may be a good option if your main goals are improved hydration, a fresher-looking complexion and smoother-feeling skin.Injected Polynucleotides – Skin Quality and RepairInjected polynucleotides are treatments in which polynucleotide-based products, such as Vitaran®, are delivered directly into selected areas of the skin using injections. Polynucleotides are purified DNA-derived molecules that are used in aesthetic treatments intended to support skin repair and regeneration.Rather than primarily focusing on hydration, injected polynucleotides are intended to support skin quality, elasticity and tissue remodelling. They may be considered for concerns such as crepey skin, fine lines, uneven texture and the appearance of certain types of scarring.Results generally develop gradually over several weeks as the skin responds to treatment. A course of sessions may be recommended, with the number and spacing determined by the product, treatment area and individual needs. Results vary and are not guaranteed.How are injected polynucleotides different from polynucleotide microneedling?Choose microneedling if your primary targets are surface-level scars, large pores, or rough skin textureChoose Vitaran injections for a more controlled dose directly into the mid-dermis, if you want to repair fragile, thin, or aging skin (especially under the eyes) and improve deep hydration and bio-stimulation. Which Treatment Is Right for You?The main differences are:Microneedling: stimulates the skin’s natural repair response and supports collagen remodelling.Skin boosters: primarily target hydration, softness and radiance.Injected polynucleotides: are intended to support skin repair, elasticity and overall skin quality.They complement each other, and often clients choose to have a course of three Skin Boosters/Polynucleotides and then regular microneedling every 4-6 weeks, and then repeat the Skin Boosters/Polynucleotides six months later.During your consultation, we’ll assess your skin and discuss which treatment, or combination of treatments is best suited to your concerns, goals and budget.​

Before your treatment, you will complete a medical questionnaire and have a consultation so we can assess your skin, medical history and suitability for microneedling.Microneedling may not be suitable, or may need to be postponed, if you have any of the following:Pregnancy or breastfeeding.Allergies or sensitivities to ingredients in the treatment products, metals in the device or topical anaesthetics, where used.Bleeding disorders, including haemophilia, or medication that affects blood clotting, such as anticoagulants. These require clinical assessment; do not stop prescribed medication without advice from your prescribing clinician.A history of keloid or abnormal scarring, or a tendency to heal poorly.An active skin infection, including bacterial, fungal or viral infections, cold sores or warts in the treatment area.Active inflammatory acne, particularly deep, painful or infected lesions in the treatment area.Sunburn, broken skin, open wounds or significant skin irritation in the area to be treated.Active eczema, psoriasis or significant rosacea inflammation in the treatment area.Uncontrolled diabetes, immune suppression or another medical condition that may impair healing.Skin cancer or suspicious skin lesions in the treatment area. These require appropriate medical assessment before treatment.Current or recent isotretinoin (Roaccutane) treatment. Tell your practitioner if you take or have taken this medication within the past six months.Chemotherapy, radiotherapy or radiation treatment within last 6 months affecting the proposed treatment area. Specialist medical advice and an appropriate recovery period may be necessary.Raised moles, warts or other unexplained skin lesions in the treatment area must be assessed and should not be needled.What If I've Had Other Cosmetic Treatments?If you have recently had anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, skin boosters, chemical peels, laser treatments, surgery or another aesthetic procedure, please tell us before booking microneedling.The appropriate interval depends on the procedure, the area treated and how well your skin has recovered. For example, we generally advise allowing at least two weeks after anti-wrinkle injections or hyaluronic acid fillers, but your practitioner may recommend a longer interval depending on your treatment plan. See our separate question for guidance on other treatments.What About Sensitive Skin or Darker Skin Tones?Microneedling can be performed on a range of skin tones, but the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks after inflammation) varies between individuals. We will assess your skin type, pigmentation history and tendency to develop dark marks before recommending treatment. Additional precautions or an alternative treatment may be appropriate.Your safety comes first. Completing a medical questionnaire does not automatically mean you are suitable for treatment. Your practitioner will assess your individual circumstances, explain the potential risks and discuss suitable alternatives if microneedling is not appropriate.

At Westfield Clinic, we use the award-winning imedpen® X, a professional CE-Marked microneedling device designed to support precise, tailored treatments.The device features adjustable needle depth and speed settings, allowing your practitioner to adapt the treatment to your skin concerns and the area being treated. It uses sterile, single-use needle cartridges to support safe and hygienic treatment practices.Microneedling with the imedpen® X can help improve the appearance of uneven skin texture, enlarged pores, fine lines and certain types of scarring by stimulating the skin’s natural repair response and supporting collagen remodelling.Your treatment is tailored to your individual skin needs, with settings selected according to your concerns and clinical suitability.

Microneedling can be suitable for darker skin tones, including Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI. However, these skin types may have a greater risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), where inflammation triggers areas of darker pigmentation.To help minimise this risk:Pre-treatment skincare: A tyrosinase inhibitor, which helps reduce melanin production, may be applied for 1–2 weeks before treatment. The product and duration will depend on your skin and its suitability for the ingredients used.Test patch: We recommend a test patch for clients with Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI where clinically appropriate. This costs £20 and is redeemable against the cost of a full treatment. A test patch can help assess your skin's response, although it cannot eliminate the risk of pigmentation changes.Sun protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 daily throughout your treatment course. SPF 50+ may be preferable if you are prone to pigmentation. Avoid excessive sun exposure and follow your practitioner’s aftercare advice.Your practitioner will assess whether microneedling is suitable for you and may recommend an alternative approach if the risk of pigmentation or other complications is considered too high.

Yes, Fillmed products are vegan-friendly, it contains no animal derivatives.