Microneedling and Its Modern Cousins: Which One’s Right for You?

Article 4

In the first part of our Beneath the Surface series, we explored the truth behind fat dissolving injections — what they can (and can’t) do, how they compare to liposuction, and what patients can expect before, during and after treatment.

Now, in Part 2 of the series, Dr Adam turns the spotlight to microneedling — a category of treatments with growing popularity for improving skin texture, tone, and firmness, as well as supporting hair growth. As with many aesthetic treatments, there’s no one-size-fits-all. From traditional rollers to advanced RF devices, microneedling has evolved — and with it, so has its impact.

Let’s explore the main types: Dermaroller, Dermapen, and RF microneedling — what sets them apart, and how to decide which might be the right choice for your skin or scalp concerns.

The Basics: What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling uses ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers the body’s natural healing response, stimulating collagen, elastin, and cell turnover. Depending on the method, microneedling can also enhance the delivery of regenerative agents such as PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), exosomes, or skin-boosting serums — all of which will be explored more in Part 3 of this series.

Dermaroller: The First Generation

The Dermaroller is a cylindrical, handheld device with microneedles arranged in rows. Rolled over the skin, it causes superficial injury to stimulate collagen formation. While still used in some clinics, it offers less control over needle depth and more drag across the skin, which can increase discomfort and downtime.

For these reasons, Dermarollers are being phased out in favour of more precise and customisable technologies.

Dermapen: Precision and Versatility

(Soon available at Dr Alluris Aesthetics)

Dermapen is a motorised microneedling device that vertically stamps the skin with adjustable-speed needles. This vertical action allows for precise control of needle depth, treatment intensity, and targeted delivery of active ingredients.

Dr Adam will soon offer Dermapen microneedling as part of his expanding treatment portfolio at Dr Alluris Aesthetics. Why Dermapen?

• Greater precision for both superficial and deeper concerns
• Minimal trauma, faster healing, and excellent safety profile
• Ideal platform for combination treatments, including PRP and exosomes
• No contraindications with metal implants
• Well tolerated across diverse skin tones and textures

The ability to combine Dermapen with regenerative agents makes it an exceptional choice for patients looking for natural collagen stimulation, skin rejuvenation, and enhanced healing — all supported by medical-grade evidence.

These biologically active combinations will be discussed in detail in Part 3 of this series, where Dr Adam explores the power of PRP, exosomes, and their integration into injectable and skin-based treatments.

RF Microneedling: Advanced Energy-Based Collagen Boosting

(Available via Dr Adam’s collaboration with Skintouch)

RF Microneedling merges mechanical microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy, delivered through insulated needles into the dermis. This approach enhances collagen remodelling, tightens skin, and is particularly effective for mild laxity, acne scarring, and textural irregularities.

RF microneedling is available at Skintouch, where Dr Adam works closely with a trusted team of aesthetic professionals. It represents an excellent option for patients seeking an energy-based approach to skin tightening.

Unlike Dermapen, RF is not typically used with PRP or exosomes, as the thermal energy may compromise growth factor activity. For patients with contraindications to PRP — such as thrombocytopenia, autoimmune issues, or personal preference — RF microneedling provides a clinically effective alternative.

Some patients may also be better suited to RF depending on their skin’s needs — and Dr Adam will always guide each client accordingly, using a collaborative, individualised approach.

For those prioritising combination therapies or biologically active treatments, Dermapen remains the more versatile and integration-friendly platform.

Microneedling for Hair Loss: Precision Delivery to the Scalp

Microneedling isn’t limited to the face — it’s increasingly used to support hair regrowth, particularly in androgenetic alopecia and diffuse hair thinning.

Dr Adam will soon be offering Dermapen microneedling for the scalp, which can:

• Stimulate blood flow and follicle activity
• Increase absorption of minoxidil and other topical agents
• Enhance response to PRP and exosome therapy
• Improve density, thickness, and hair vitality

By creating micro-channels in the scalp, Dermapen allows for deep delivery of active ingredients and the activation of dormant follicles — with minimal risk and excellent tolerability.

This is a promising field in aesthetic medicine, and Dr Adam will be sharing more on this in future posts, including results from patient experiences.

What’s Next?

In the next article, we’ll compare microneedling and laser resurfacing, two popular choices for skin rejuvenation — examining downtime, cost, safety, and suitability across different skin tones.

Later in the series, we’ll explore:

• PRP and Exosomes: Biological agents that can transform both skin and hair treatments (Part 3)
• Endolift: A high-precision laser sculpting treatment for facial contouring and skin rejuvenation and tightening (Part 4)

Dr Adam is committed to helping patients understand what lies beneath the surface of every treatment — offering honest guidance, scientific insight, and aesthetic artistry at every step.

‍Ready to learn more or discuss your options?
You can always contact Dr Adam at Dr Alluris Aesthetics for advice tailored to your unique skin needs.

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_{Declaration: 
Featured image contains parts of Dr Pen microneedling pen. Not sponsored.
Link to original image: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dr-pen.co.uk%2Fproduct%2Fdr-pen-a6s%2F&psig=AOvVaw17R3uau07QzeEBBKo3YJAK&ust=1749830319993000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCMDQ246g7I0DFQAAAAAdAAAAABBT}