Microneedling in Kingston upon Thames
Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, uses controlled micro-injuries to trigger the skin's own repair process. It is one of the most effective treatments available for acne scarring, uneven texture and dull, tired-looking skin, with far less downtime than lasers or deep peels.
From £150
1. How microneedling works
A medical-grade device creates thousands of tiny controlled channels in the skin at a precisely set depth. Each one is small enough to heal quickly but significant enough to be registered by the body as an injury.
That triggers a healing cascade: inflammation, proliferation, and then remodelling. Over the following weeks the skin lays down new collagen and elastin in the treated area. The visible improvement comes from that remodelling, not from the treatment itself — which is why results build over months rather than appearing immediately.
The depth setting is the variable that matters most. Superficial settings improve glow and product absorption; deeper settings are needed to reach the fibrous tissue of acne scars. Setting the depth correctly for the concern and the facial area is a clinical judgement, and it is the main reason medical microneedling produces different results from a salon facial with the same name.
2. What microneedling treats
Acne scarring
Rolling and boxcar scars respond well. Microneedling breaks up the fibrous tethers that pull the scar base downwards and stimulates collagen to fill from beneath. Ice-pick scars respond less well and may need a combined approach.
Skin texture and enlarged pores
Roughness, congestion and visible pores improve as the dermis thickens and the skin surface becomes more even.
Fine lines
Fine lines caused by loss of skin quality — as distinct from lines caused by muscle movement — soften as collagen density increases.
Pigmentation and tone
Post-inflammatory pigmentation and general unevenness improve gradually. Melasma requires caution and a modified approach, and is assessed individually.
Stretch marks and scarring elsewhere
The same mechanism works on body areas, though more sessions are usually needed.
3. Microneedling with Purasomes and PDRN
Because microneedling opens temporary channels in the skin, active ingredients applied during treatment penetrate far more effectively than they would otherwise.
Purasomes
An exosome-based preparation applied during treatment to support the healing response and improve skin quality outcomes. Used where the priority is overall skin brightness and recovery.
PDRN
Polydeoxyribonucleotide, a regenerative compound that supports tissue repair and is particularly useful in scarring and in skin showing early signs of ageing.
Which, if either, is appropriate is decided at consultation based on your skin and what you are trying to achieve. Neither is necessary for a good result from standard microneedling.
4. Why medical microneedling is different
Microneedling is widely offered in salons in Kingston, and the treatment is not the same.
Depth
Non-medical settings are typically limited to superficial depths that will not reach acne scarring.
Assessment
Skin type, medication history, active acne, cold sore history and pigmentation risk all change how treatment should be delivered. This is a clinical assessment.
Device and sterility
Medical-grade devices with single-use sterile cartridges, used under clinical hygiene standards.
Contraindications
Isotretinoin use, active infection, keloid tendency and certain skin conditions make treatment inappropriate. A doctor screens for these.
Home dermarollers do not achieve any of the above and can cause scarring, infection and pigmentation.
5. What to expect
Before
Stop retinoids five days beforehand. Avoid sun exposure and self-tan. Tell Dr Ashi if you have a history of cold sores, as antiviral cover may be prescribed.
During
Topical numbing cream is applied for twenty to thirty minutes. Treatment itself takes twenty to thirty minutes and feels like a light vibrating scratch. Total appointment time is around an hour.
After
The skin looks and feels like mild sunburn — pink, warm and tight — for twenty-four to forty-eight hours. Mild flaking may follow on days three to five. Use only gentle cleanser and moisturiser for forty-eight hours, and daily SPF 50 for at least two weeks.
Downtime
Most patients are comfortable in public the following day and back to normal skincare and make-up after forty-eight hours.
Results
An initial glow appears within a week. Genuine structural improvement builds from four weeks and continues for three to six months as collagen remodels. A course is almost always needed for scarring.
6. How many sessions are needed
General skin quality: three sessions four to six weeks apart, then maintenance every six to twelve months.
Acne scarring: four to six sessions four to six weeks apart. Scarring is a structural problem and does not resolve in one treatment; anyone promising otherwise is overselling.
Pigmentation and tone: three sessions, reviewed after the third.
7. Prices
| Microneedling, single session | from £150 |
| Microneedling, course of three | from £400 |
| Microneedling with Purasomes, single session | from £300 |
| Microneedling with Purasomes, course of three | from £800 |
| Microneedling with PDRN | from £280 |
| Consultation | £40 |
Consultation fee is redeemable against treatment.
8. Microneedling near Kingston
The clinic is in Kingston upon Thames, KT2, a short drive from Kingston town centre and close to Norbiton station. Patients attend from:
- Surbiton
- New Malden
- Coombe
- Richmond
- Teddington
- Wimbledon
Appointments are available Monday to Saturday. Clinic address and opening hours.
9. Frequently asked questions
Does microneedling hurt?
With topical numbing, most patients describe it as uncomfortable rather than painful. Bonier areas such as the forehead and jawline are felt more than the cheeks.
How long is the downtime?
Redness for twenty-four to forty-eight hours, occasionally with light flaking on days three to five. Make-up can usually be worn after forty-eight hours.
Is microneedling safe for darker skin tones?
Yes. Microneedling is generally safer than laser for higher Fitzpatrick skin types because it does not rely on heat or pigment targeting. Depth and aftercare are still adjusted to reduce the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Can microneedling be combined with other treatments?
Yes, though not on the same day as injectables. Sequencing is planned at consultation.
How is this different from a dermaroller at home?
Home rollers cannot reach effective depths, cannot be properly sterilised, and tear rather than puncture the skin. They carry a genuine risk of scarring and infection.
When will I see results?
An early glow within a week; structural change from four weeks onwards, continuing for three to six months.