How it works
The cartridge creates many small channels in a selected area. The intended response and recovery depend on needle depth, speed, technique, treatment area and the device instructions.
All technology categories
Technology category · 2 devices
Automated skin-needling devices
Automated needling devices move fine needles into the skin at controlled depths. They are mechanical devices; radiofrequency microneedling is a separate category because it also delivers energy through or around the needles.
Always follow the directions for use.
Potential benefits discussed
- Adjustable treatment depth
- A mechanical rather than light-based approach
- Single-use sterile cartridges are available for recognised systems
Common use cases
- Skin-texture discussions
- Appearance of some scars
- Fine-line discussions
Limits that matter
- Needling does not diagnose the cause of a skin change.
- Topical products are not automatically suitable for application into freshly needled skin.
- Device authenticity, cartridge sterility and infection control matter.
Risks and cautions
- Bleeding, redness, swelling, infection, pigment change and scarring are possible.
- Active infection, some skin conditions and medicines may alter suitability.
- Improper reuse or handling of cartridges creates infection risk.
Devices in this category
These are all active device terms in the internal directory taxonomy for this category as reviewed on 12 August 2026. Inclusion is not approval, endorsement or proof that every clinic listing is current.
Automated microneedling pen
Dermapen 4
A powered pen system using a replaceable needle cartridge at adjustable depth and speed.
Read the device explainerAutomated microneedling pen
SkinPen microneedling
A powered microneedling device with single-use cartridges and adjustable needle depth.
Read the device explainerQuestions worth asking
- What exact device and handpiece will be used, and what is it intended to do?
- Who will perform the treatment, and what training and experience do they have with this device?
- What results are realistic for me, how many sessions may be discussed, and when would change be assessed?
- What are the important risks, alternatives, costs and aftercare requirements?
How to read the evidence
Evidence varies by indication, depth, schedule and comparison treatment. RF microneedling results should not be attributed to needling-only devices.