Expert questions scientific evidence for microneedling anti-ageing claims
While the mechanism of controlled skin damage is plausible, Dr Gideon Meyerowitz-Katz says consumers should wait for better data before undergoing the treatment.
Dr Gideon Meyerowitz-Katz, an epidemiologist and senior research fellow at the University of Wollongong, has published an opinion piece in The Guardian questioning the scientific evidence for microneedling as an anti-ageing treatment. The article argues that while the mechanism of controlled skin damage is plausible, the quality of research supporting microneedling for general rejuvenation is poor, with studies often being small, lacking statistical significance, or having inadequate follow-up.
Dermatologist Dr Deshan Sebaratnam from the Skin Hospital notes that microneedling may offer modest benefits for specific conditions like acne scarring when performed by professionals, but consumer-grade home devices are likely less effective due to shallower needle penetration. The author advises waiting for better data before undergoing the procedure, citing a lack of clear information on optimal dosage, frequency, and needle length.
Microneedling is described as a popular wellness trend aimed at achieving 'eternal youth' or looking younger, often promoted by wellness entrepreneurs on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The practice involves using tiny needles to cause controlled damage to the skin, theoretically triggering a healing response that remodels tissue. Similar mechanisms are used in chemical peels, which have reasonably good evidence for improving certain skin problems.
The specific critique of existing literature includes a 2010 study involving only 20 participants (with five dropouts), which found no statistically significant difference in scarring between treated and untreated sides of the face. Dr Sebaratnam highlights the distinction between professional services and at-home devices, noting that consumer devices generally do not penetrate as deeply, reducing both side effects and potential benefits.
The article identifies a gap in knowledge regarding the necessary 'dose' of microneedling (frequency and needle length) required for efficacy. The piece is part of 'Antiviral', a fortnightly column by Dr Meyerowitz-Katz that interrogates health headlines and factchecks wellness claims.