Horizontal forehead lines and the vertical "11" lines between the brows are some of the most noticeable expression lines. They're caused by years of raising your eyebrows, frowning and squinting. Microneedling can help these lines look softer over time. Here's how to work on this area well.
The short answer: use a 12-pin cartridge at 0.6mm for horizontal forehead lines and a 9-pin for the lines between the brows. Keep the skin taut, glide lightly because skin here sits close to bone, and repeat every four weeks. Fine lines respond best; deep, set-in lines may look softer but won't disappear.
Why these lines form
- Expression: raising your eyebrows creates horizontal lines; frowning and concentrating create vertical lines between the brows.
- Collagen loss with age means creases don't bounce back as easily.
- Sun exposure and squinting make lines deeper.
- Dryness makes lines more visible.
Choosing your cartridge
| Area | Cartridge | Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal forehead lines | 12-pin | 0.6mm |
| Lines between the brows | 9-pin | 0.6mm |
| Brow bone and temples | Nano or 12-pin | Lowest setting or 0.6mm |
Technique for the forehead
- Pull your hair back and cleanse the forehead. Disinfect your skin, hands and pen.
- Attach a new, sealed cartridge and set 0.6mm and a low speed.
- Apply hyaluronic acid across the forehead.
- Relax your face, don't raise your eyebrows, and use your free hand to gently stretch the skin.
- Glide lightly across the forehead in small, overlapping strokes, working across the lines, then along them, then diagonally.
- Go especially lightly over the bony centre of the forehead.
Technique between the brows
- Switch to a 9-pin cartridge.
- Stretch the skin gently between two fingers.
- Glide in short strokes across the vertical lines, then along them.
- Keep passes to a minimum; this area is small and sensitive.
Finish with hyaluronic acid and a fragrance-free moisturiser. Repeat about every four weeks, for 3 to 6 sessions.
Realistic expectations
- Fine lines often look noticeably softer after several sessions.
- Deeper lines may look a little softer, but won't disappear.
- Lines caused by movement will keep forming as long as the muscles move, so consistent maintenance helps.
Habits that help
- Wear sunglasses to reduce squinting.
- Apply SPF across the forehead daily, right up to the hairline.
- Keep skin hydrated.
- Notice and relax frowning when you're concentrating.
If you've had injectables
If you've had anti-wrinkle injections in the area, ask your practitioner how long to wait before microneedling.
Smoother-looking lines with Olapen
Olapen lets you switch between a 12-pin for the wider forehead and a 9-pin for the smaller area between the brows in seconds. See how to microneedle your whole face for the full routine.
Frequently asked questions
Can microneedling help forehead lines?
Yes, especially fine lines, over a course of sessions.
Does microneedling help 11 lines?
It can help them look softer. Use a 9-pin at 0.6mm.
Why does the forehead feel more sensitive?
The skin sits close to bone, so glide lightly.
Can I microneedle after Botox?
Ask your practitioner how long to wait.
How long until I see results?
Usually after 3 to 6 sessions.
The bottom line
Microneedling can help forehead and frown lines look softer. Use a 12-pin for the forehead and a 9-pin between the brows, keep your touch light over bone, relax your face, and keep it consistent.
Microneedling and nanoneedling are cosmetic procedures. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition. If you have a skin condition or any concerns, speak to a healthcare professional.