Clinical Studies
Microneedling has been studied by dermatologists and plastic surgeons for well over a decade. Here's a plain-English summary of some of the key published research, with links to the original sources so you can read them yourself.
Please note: these studies were carried out by clinicians, mostly in clinics, using professional devices and settings. Some combined microneedling with other treatments. None of them tested Olapen, and results from home use may differ. We share them to explain how microneedling works and what research has found, not as a promise of specific results.
Overviews of the research
Microneedling: a review and practical guide
Alster TS, Graham PM. Dermatologic Surgery, 2018; 44(3): 397–404.
The authors reviewed the published medical literature on microneedling for scarring and skin rejuvenation. They concluded that it can produce meaningful improvement in the appearance of scars, stretch marks and wrinkles, with a quick recovery and limited side effects, and described it as a less invasive alternative to treatments such as laser resurfacing and deep chemical peels.
Safety profile for microneedling: a systematic review
Dermatologic Surgery, 2021; 47(9): 1249–1254.
This review looked at 85 published studies reporting side effects after microneedling. The most common were temporary, expected effects such as redness, swelling and discomfort, lasting up to about a week. Less common but longer-lasting effects included dark patches, marks from the needles and lumps under the skin. Active infections, darker skin types and metal allergies were linked to a higher risk. Overall, the authors considered microneedling a relatively safe treatment.
Scars and stretch marks
Microneedling of scars: a large prospective study with long-term follow-up
Alster TS, Li MKY. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2020; 145(2): 358–364.
120 patients across all skin types, with facial and body scars from acne, injury or surgery, received between one and six monthly treatments with a mechanical microneedling device in clinic. Assessors who didn't know the treatment details rated the scars at intervals up to 12 months. All scars were rated as at least 50% improved after an average of 2.5 treatments, and facial and body scars responded similarly.
Microneedling in the treatment of atrophic scars: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials
This review brought together nine randomised controlled trials of microneedling for indented acne scars, used either on its own or alongside other treatments, published over a 20-year period. It summarises how microneedling compared with other approaches in controlled conditions.
Percutaneous collagen induction therapy for scars, wrinkles and skin laxity
Aust MC et al. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2008; 121(4): 1421–1429.
One of the early large studies of medical needling, this retrospective study reviewed 480 patients treated for scars, stretch marks, wrinkles and loose skin. The authors reported improvements on standard scar and skin assessments, and tissue samples showed new collagen forming in a normal pattern.
Thinning hair
Microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: a pilot study
Dhurat R et al. International Journal of Trichology, 2013; 5(1): 6–11.
100 men with mild to moderate pattern hair loss were split into two groups for 12 weeks. One group used 5% minoxidil lotion alone; the other used the same lotion plus weekly microneedling of the scalp in clinic. The group that also had microneedling showed a greater average increase in hair count. Minoxidil is a medicine, and this study tested microneedling alongside it, not on its own. Other small studies have shown mixed results, so more research is needed.
What this means for you
- Research supports microneedling as a way to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, fine lines and skin texture, with most side effects mild and temporary.
- Results build gradually over a course of sessions spaced weeks apart.
- Clinical studies often use deeper settings than are suitable at home. At home, stay within our recommended depths, and see a qualified professional for deeper treatment.
- Results vary from person to person.
Before you start, read our safety guide.
Microneedling and nanoneedling are cosmetic procedures. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition.
