Good results from microneedling depend as much on technique as on the pen. Small habits, like pressing too hard or holding the pen at an angle, can make sessions less comfortable and results less even. Here are the most common technique mistakes and how to fix them.
The short answer: hold the pen at 90 degrees, switch it on before it touches your skin, glide without pressing, keep the skin taut, use plenty of glide, and stick to a few overlapping passes per section at the right depth. Most technique problems come from doing too much.
10 technique mistakes and how to fix them
1. Pressing down
Pressing pushes the needles deeper than your setting and can cause bruising and bleeding. Fix: let the pen rest lightly on the skin and glide.
2. Holding the pen at an angle
An angled pen can scratch or drag. Fix: keep the pen at 90 degrees to the skin, adjusting as you move around curves.
3. Touching the skin before switching on
Starting the pen on the skin can feel sharp and uneven. Fix: switch it on first, then bring it to the skin.
4. Not using enough glide
A dry surface makes the pen drag and scratch. Fix: apply hyaluronic acid section by section and add more if the pen starts to catch.
5. Loose skin
Slack skin bunches up under the pen, so channels are uneven. Fix: stretch the skin gently with your free hand.
6. Too many passes
Going over the same area repeatedly increases redness and irritation without improving results. Fix: a few overlapping passes, horizontally, vertically and diagonally, then move on.
7. Going too deep
Deeper isn't better at home. Fix: 0.6mm on the face, and use our depth chart for other areas.
8. Moving too fast or too slowly
Moving too fast leaves gaps; lingering in one spot overworks it. Fix: a steady, smooth glide with a moderate speed setting.
9. Working over spots, moles or broken skin
This can spread bacteria or irritate the area. Fix: always work around them.
10. Uneven coverage
Jumping around the face means some areas get more attention than others. Fix: work in the same order every time. See our full-face map.
Signs your technique needs adjusting
| What you notice | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Scratch marks or lines | Pen at an angle, dragging or not enough glide |
| More than pinpoint bleeding | Pressing too hard or going too deep |
| Bruising | Pressing over bony or thin areas |
| Patchy redness | Uneven passes |
| Redness lasting over 3 days | Too many passes or too deep |
Our troubleshooting guide covers more.
A good technique checklist
- Fresh, sterile cartridge
- Correct depth for the area
- Low to moderate speed
- Pen on before touching skin
- 90-degree angle
- Taut skin
- Plenty of glide
- Light pressure
- A few passes per section
- Same order every time
Better technique with Olapen
Olapen's lightweight, cordless, ergonomic design makes it easier to hold the pen steady at 90 degrees, and five speeds let you find a comfortable, controlled pace. See depth and technique by area.
Frequently asked questions
Should I press down when microneedling?
No. Let the pen glide with light contact.
What angle should I hold the pen?
90 degrees to the skin.
How many passes should I do?
A few overlapping passes in each direction per section.
Why does the pen scratch my skin?
Usually not enough glide, an angled pen or a damaged cartridge.
What speed should I use?
A low to moderate speed while you're learning.
The bottom line
Great results come from simple, careful technique. Hold the pen upright, keep the skin taut, glide lightly with plenty of serum, and do just enough passes. Less really is more.
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.