Mechanical skin needling creating microchannels. Studied for collagen induction, acne scars, and skin rejuvenation.
◆Moderate evidence
The Idea
Microneedling is an in-clinic procedure that uses mechanical skin needling to create microchannels in the skin, inducing collagen production and promoting skin rejuvenation. This device is studied for its potential to improve the appearance of acne scars and fine lines. The proposed mechanism of action involves the stimulation of collagen synthesis and tissue repair.
What the Evidence Shows
Research suggests that microneedling can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and acne scars. Studies indicate that collagen production is increased following microneedling treatments, with some studies showing significant improvements in skin elasticity and firmness. However, evidence is limited by the small sample sizes and variability in treatment protocols used across studies. More high-quality, randomized controlled trials are needed to fully understand the efficacy of microneedling for skin rejuvenation.
Verdict
The current state of clinical use suggests that microneedling is a promising treatment option for skin rejuvenation, but its effectiveness can vary depending on individual factors and treatment protocols. While some studies indicate positive outcomes, more research is needed to fully establish the benefits and limitations of this procedure.
Understanding evidence levels▼
In VitroCell or tissue culture experiments — no human or animal data.
Ex VivoSkin model or tissue experiments — not in living humans.
Animal StudyResults in animals only — may or may not translate to humans.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study — preliminary results.
Controlled TrialControlled human study (often randomized) — stronger evidence.
Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.
Meta-AnalysisStatistical pooling of results from multiple studies.
GuidelineProfessional guidance or consensus statement from a dermatology society.
Ex VivoSkin model or tissue experiments. Not in living humans.Skin Barrier DamagePublished: August 9, 2026
Microneedling may help deliver skincare ingredients deeper into skin
Researchers studied how a microneedling pen called Dermapen can create tiny channels in skin to help deliver skincare ingredients. They found that this method can improve delivery of certain ingredients, including liposomes and particles, into the skin. However, the effectiveness of this method may depend on the type of ingredient and how it is applied.
Why it matters: This study may help us understand how to improve the delivery of skincare ingredients and potentially lead to more effective skincare treatments.
This study was conducted in excised human skin, which may not perfectly replicate real skin conditions. The study also only looked at a small number of ingredients and did not examine the long-term effects of microneedling on skin.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.WrinklesPublished: August 7, 2026
Laser and Light-Based Energy Devices for Skincare
Researchers studied the use of laser and light-based energy devices for various skincare treatments, including skin resurfacing, removing vascular and pigmented lesions, and improving scars. They found that these devices can be effective with reduced downtime and improved safety. However, careful patient selection and parameter optimization are crucial to minimize potential complications.
Why it matters: This research may help skincare professionals understand the potential benefits and risks of using laser and light-based energy devices for various treatments.
The review synthesizes current evidence, but specific studies may have varying levels of quality and sample sizes.
Researchers Develop New Skin Delivery System for Resveratrol
A new delivery system for the antioxidant resveratrol was studied for its ability to penetrate deep into the skin. Researchers found that this system, called PEG-liposomes, may help improve skin appearance by promoting collagen remodeling and reducing oxidative stress. The system was tested in combination with micro-needling, a technique that uses small needles to create micro-injuries in the skin.
Why it matters: This study may help improve our understanding of how to deliver antioxidants deep into the skin, which could lead to new treatments for skin aging.
This study was conducted in a lab setting using ex-vivo samples, and its findings have not been tested in human subjects. The study's results may not be directly applicable to real-world skin conditions.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.AcnePublished: July 17, 2026
Non-Light-Based Energy Devices for Skin Aesthetics
Researchers studied various energy devices for skin treatments, including radiofrequency, ultrasound, and microwave energy. These devices may help improve skin laxity, reduce wrinkles, and treat acne and vascular lesions. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: Understanding the effectiveness of non-light-based energy devices may help individuals make informed decisions about their skincare treatments.
The review included articles from a targeted PubMed search, supplemented by citation tracking and authors' clinical expertise, but the specific studies and their sample sizes are not detailed in the abstract.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Hyaluronic AcidWrinklesPublished: July 15, 2026
Microneedle Therapy May Help Improve Enlarged Pores and Fine Wrinkles
A small study in Korea looked at using a microneedle therapy system combined with a topical glucose solution to improve skin texture, pore size, and fine wrinkles. Researchers found that many patients reported improvements in their skin, but more research is needed to confirm these results. The study had a small sample size and did not include a control group.
Why it matters: This study may help skincare professionals understand new treatment options for improving skin appearance.
This study had a small sample size of 40 patients and did not include a control group, which limits its findings. The study also had a short duration of 12-16 weeks, and more research is needed to confirm the long-term effects of this treatment.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.Glycolic AcidAcnePublished: July 10, 2026
Combination Therapies May Help Improve Atrophic Acne Scars
Researchers studied various treatments for moderate-to-severe atrophic acne scars, including laser, microneedling, and combination therapies. They found that some combination treatments may be more effective than others in improving appearance. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: Understanding the most effective treatments for atrophic acne scars may help individuals make informed decisions about their skincare.
This study included 56 randomized controlled trials with 1488 patients, but the evidence for some treatments was limited due to small sample sizes or high risk of bias. Further validation is needed for combination therapies like CO laser + topical insulin and MFR + bFGF.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Redness / Facial RednessPublished: July 7, 2026
Radiofrequency Microneedling Complications Studied in FDA Database
Researchers analyzed reports of complications from radiofrequency microneedling, a skin-tightening treatment. They found 145 reported side effects, including fat loss, scarring, and redness. The study suggests that patient safety may be improved with better device settings and feedback.
Why it matters: This study highlights potential risks associated with radiofrequency microneedling, a treatment that may be considered for skin rejuvenation.
This study analyzed reports from the FDA database, which may not be comprehensive, and the sample size is not specified.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Published: July 7, 2026
Managing the Buccal Fat Pad During Deep-Plane Facelift: A Study of 68 Patients
Researchers studied a surgical technique for managing the buccal fat pad during deep-plane facelifts. They found that this approach improved lower facial and jowl contour in 68 patients. However, the study's results are based on a small number of patients and more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This study may help improve our understanding of how to refine mid and lower face contours during facial aesthetic surgery.
This study included a small number of patients (68) and was conducted by a single surgeon, which may limit the generalizability of the results.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Published: July 3, 2026
Plant-Derived Extracellular Vesicles May Help with Hair Loss
Researchers studied a treatment for androgenetic alopecia (hair loss) using plant-derived extracellular vesicles delivered through a microneedling device. A small group of patients reported improvement in their hair loss after six sessions. The results suggest that this treatment may be feasible and tolerable, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Why it matters: This study may contribute to our understanding of potential new treatments for hair loss, a common condition affecting many people.
This was a small retrospective case series with a limited number of patients (n=20), and the results may not be generalizable to other populations. The study did not have a control group, and the efficacy of the treatment was assessed subjectively by the patients and investigators.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.HyperpigmentationPublished: June 29, 2026
Topical Recombinant Collagen May Help Reduce Skin Redness After Nonsurgical Facelift
Researchers studied the use of topical recombinant collagen after a nonsurgical facelift procedure called fractional radio frequency microneedling. They found that applying this collagen to the skin may help reduce redness and inflammation within a few hours. This was observed in two female patients, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This study may help skincare professionals understand how to improve recovery after nonsurgical facelift procedures.
This case report involved only two patients, so the findings may not be representative of all individuals. Further research is needed to confirm these results.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Skin Barrier DamagePublished: June 27, 2026
Radiofrequency Microneedling May Enhance Topical Corticosteroid Delivery
Researchers studied how radiofrequency microneedling affects the delivery of a topical corticosteroid called triamcinolone acetonide. They found that microneedling may help increase the amount of the corticosteroid absorbed into the skin. However, the optimal settings for microneedling to achieve this effect are still being explored.
Why it matters: This study may help us better understand how to enhance the delivery of topical corticosteroids, which are used to treat various skin conditions.
This study involved only five healthy volunteers and was conducted on a small area of the forearm. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore their potential applications in treating skin conditions.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.AcnePublished: June 23, 2026
Comparing Laser and Needling Treatments for Acne Scars
Researchers compared the effectiveness of fractional CO₂ laser and needling procedures in treating facial acne scars. They found that both treatments may help reduce the appearance of scars, but with varying levels of success and risk of complications. More research is needed to understand the best treatment options for individual patients.
Why it matters: This study may help skincare professionals and patients understand the pros and cons of different treatments for acne scars.
This study is based on a systematic review of 17 studies, which may have included small sample sizes or varying treatment protocols.