Journal September 25, 2026 4 min read

Common Misconceptions About Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production. This article examines common misconceptions and reviews the clinical eviden

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Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy or percutaneous collagen induction, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This mechanical disruption triggers the body's natural wound healing cascade, leading to the release of growth factors and the subsequent production of collagen and elastin. The procedure is distinct from dermabrasion and chemical peels in that it preserves the epidermis while creating micro-channels that can enhance the delivery of topical compounds.

The work in this area centres on the wound healing pathway and the modulation of growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), which are implicated in tissue remodelling and scar formation [6].

Research Studies

Microneedling and Topical Tranexamic Acid in Striae Rubra

A clinical trial is evaluating the effectiveness and safety of microneedling with topical tranexamic acid compared to microneedling with a placebo (normal saline) in the treatment of striae rubra [1]. In this study, one side of the affected area receives topical tranexamic acid at a concentration of 100 mg/mL, followed by a microneedling session. The contralateral side receives 0.9% normal saline followed by microneedling performed in the same manner. Treatment sessions are conducted every three weeks, up to a maximum of five sessions [1].

Microneedling-Assisted Metformin, Tranexamic Acid, and Modified Kligman's Formula for Melasma

A randomized, parallel-group clinical trial is comparing the efficacy and safety of microneedling-assisted topical metformin, topical tranexamic acid, and modified Kligman's formula with microneedling-assisted saline in adult women with melasma [2]. Eighty participants will be randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups. The primary outcome is the change in Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score from baseline to the end of follow-up [2].

Microneedling and Topical Multivitamin Serum for Skin Health

Skin boosters are injectable and topical treatments designed to improve dermal quality and restore skin health. These products typically include hyaluronic acid formulations, biostimulatory agents, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), growth factors, and polynucleotides [3]. One category of interest includes polynucleotide-based therapies, most notably Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN). Derived from the DNA of salmon or trout, PDRN exhibits dual regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. Mechanistically, it promotes tissue repair by supplying nucleotides essential for DNA synthesis [3].

Microneedling and Glutathione Gel for Gingival Depigmentation

A split-mouth clinical trial is comparing gingival depigmentation using microneedling alone versus microneedling with glutathione gel [4]. The colour of gingiva is an important determinant of smile esthetics, and gingival depigmentation has gained popularity among periodontal plastic surgical procedures [4].

Microneedling Alone vs Microneedling with Hyaluronic Acid in Thin Gingival Phenotype

A study is evaluating microneedling alone versus microneedling along with hyaluronic acid in thin gingival phenotype [5]. The periodontal phenotype is defined as the combination of gingival phenotype and buccal bone plate thickness. Gingival recession is usually observed in the presence of trauma and inflammation in individuals with thin phenotypes, whereas pocket formation has been reported in individuals with thick phenotypes [5]. Various soft tissue augmentation procedures include sub-epithelial connective tissue graft, free gingival graft, modified roll technique, and use of acellular dermal matrix. The drawbacks of these techniques include a second surgical site [5].

Fractional Microneedling RF vs Intralesional Steroid in Hypertrophic Scars

A study is comparing the effect of fractional microneedling radiofrequency versus intralesional steroid injection with and without microneedling on tissue levels of PDGF and CTGF in hypertrophic scars [6].

Ex Vivo Evaluation of Skin Permeability Enhancement

An ex vivo study evaluated skin permeability enhancement using a cooling-assisted delivery device (TargetCool) in human-derived skin tissue models. The stratum corneum presents a significant barrier to transdermal delivery. The device was developed to enhance skin penetration, with potential synergistic effects when combined with microneedling systems such as the Turtle pin (0.5 mm) and MTS (1.5 mm) [9].

Practical Therapeutic Strategies for Acne-Induced Hyperpigmentation

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory erythema are common sequelae of acne, particularly affecting individuals with skin of color. Up to 85% of patients with Fitzpatrick phototypes IV-VI develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following inflammatory acne lesions [8].

Temporally Optimized Antioxidant Serums for Daytime Defense and Nighttime Repair

Sensitive skin affects up to 70% of the global population, linked to oxidative stress, barrier dysfunction, and disrupted skin biorhythms. The skin's daytime defense and nighttime repair cycles provide rationale for temporally optimized formulations. A multicenter clinical investigation evaluated complementary day and night serums [7].

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