Nano Needling: The Professional Secret to Radiant Skin

What is Nano Needling?
Nano needling is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that delivers a range of benefits, including improved tone and texture, reduced pore visibility, softened fine lines, and diminished pigmentation.
Performed using a microneedling device, nano needling differs from traditional microneedling because it uses a specialized nano cartridge instead of standard needles.
Nano cartridges are equipped with silicone-tipped cones that penetrate only 0.25 mm into the epidermis. Unlike microneedling, which targets the dermis for collagen induction, nano needling focuses on gentle exfoliation, enhanced cell turnover, and improved topical absorption.
When applied to the skin, these silicone cones create thousands of nanochannels that significantly enhance the penetration of serums and active ingredients. The channels close naturally within 15 minutes, making the procedure safe, gentle, and highly effective.
What’s the Difference Between Microneedling and Nano Needling?
Both microneedling and nano needling stimulate the skin’s natural repair response and can address similar concerns. However, their depth of penetration is the key difference.
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Microneedling: penetrates 0.5–3.0 mm into the dermis to induce controlled trauma, triggering collagen and elastin production.
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Nano Needling: penetrates only the epidermis (0.25 mm) using silicone tips, making it gentler and more superficial.
Because of this, nano needling is ideal for clients seeking mild rejuvenation, maintenance treatments, or an adjunct to facials, peels, and microdermabrasion procedures.
What are the Benefits of Nano Needling?
Despite its shallow penetration, nano needling offers significant skin benefits:
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Enhanced product absorption (serums and actives penetrate more effectively).
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Softer appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
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Firmer, more hydrated skin with improved microcirculation.
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Reduction in visible pores.
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Gentle treatment for delicate areas such as around the eyes and lips.
After treatment, clients often experience smoother, plumper, and more radiant skin.
What Serums Should Be Used with Nano Needling?
The effectiveness of nano needling is optimized with the right serum selection:
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Hyaluronic Acid (HA): Hydrates and plumps by retaining up to 1,000x its weight in water. Recommended for dry, dull, or dehydrated skin.
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Vitamin C: Provides antioxidant protection, brightens complexion, and reduces pigmentation. Use with caution on sensitive skin; patch testing is advised.
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Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF): Promotes cellular regeneration, collagen synthesis, and elastin production.
Does Nano Needling Hurt?
Nano needling is painless and does not require numbing cream. It is safe for all skin types and tones and carries no risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation because melanocytes remain unaffected.
Nano needling can be used on all areas of the face, neck and body - even on the delicate skin around the eyes and lips.
There is no downtime, making it suitable even for clients with busy schedules.
How often should nano needling be performed?
Because it is gentler than microneedling, nano needling can be performed every 1–2 weeks.
Microneedling, by contrast, should be spaced every 4–6 weeks to align with the skin’s natural cell turnover. Nano needling is also an excellent treatment to perform between microneedling sessions to maintain hydration and prolong results.
Can you wear makeup after nano needling?
Yes, makeup can be applied post-treatment, though mineral-based formulations are preferred to avoid irritation. However, many clients choose to skip makeup after seeing the natural glow nano needling provides.
Can you resume normal skincare after nano needling?
Yes. Because nano needling does not disrupt deeper layers of the skin, clients may resume their regular skincare regimen. However, to minimize irritation, avoid high-strength actives such as retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs for 3–4 days before and after treatment.
What can you expect after nano needling?
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Within days: skin appears more hydrated, smooth, and radiant.
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With repeated treatments: reduction in pore size, fine lines, and mild pigmentation.
Contraindications for Nano Needling
Like all medical and aesthetic/cosmetic procedures, there are certain contraindications that apply. Nano needling is not recommended for the following circumstances:
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Individuals with scleroderma.
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Those with undiagnosed lesions, infections, or rashes.
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Clients with recent herpes outbreaks.
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Diabetes or autoimmune conditions.
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Individuals undergoing cancer treatments.
How to Perform Nano Needling:
The nano needling process is much the same as the micro needling process - just using a silicone tipped cartridge head. The microscopic silicon tips are cone shaped and separate the cells within the epidermis, allowing products to be pushed into the skin.
It’s easy - just switch out the cartridge from a microneedling cartridge to a nano needling cartridge. For practitioners, nano cartridges are available for Dr. Pen Canada microneedling devices. Shop Nano Needling Cartridges.
To find out more on microneedling instruction guide click here.
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