Skin needling — also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) — is one of the most effective non-surgical skin treatments available for improving texture, tone, and overall skin quality. As a Registered Nurse practicing in Gordon Park, Brisbane, I've performed hundreds of skin needling treatments and I want to give you the real, clinical picture of what it involves, who it's suitable for, and what to expect.
What is skin needling?
Skin needling uses a medical-grade device fitted with fine, sterile needles to create thousands of microscopic channels in the skin. This controlled process triggers your skin's natural healing response, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin. The result over a course of treatments is a gradual but meaningful improvement in skin texture, firmness, and clarity.
What skin concerns does it address?
Skin needling is clinically effective for a wide range of concerns including fine lines and early wrinkles, acne scarring, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and general skin dullness. It's suitable for most skin types and tones, which makes it one of the most versatile treatments we offer at The Glow Co. Aesthetics.
What does a session involve?
Your first session begins with a thorough skin assessment and a discussion of your goals. A topical numbing cream is applied approximately 30 minutes before treatment to ensure your comfort. The needling device is then moved across the treatment area in a systematic pattern. Most clients describe the sensation as mild pressure with some warmth. A full face treatment takes approximately 45–60 minutes from start to finish.
After treatment, your skin will appear red and feel tight — similar to mild sunburn. This typically resolves within 24–48 hours. A medical-grade post-treatment protocol is applied in clinic, and you'll leave with specific aftercare instructions.
How many sessions will I need?
Most clients benefit from a course of 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Results are cumulative — each session builds on the last as your skin continues to produce new collagen in the weeks following treatment. Maintenance sessions every 3–6 months are recommended to preserve results long-term.
What should I use on my skin afterwards?
Post-treatment skin is sensitised and needs gentle, protective products. I recommend avoiding all active ingredients (retinols, acids, vitamin C) for at least 5 days post-treatment. The non-negotiable is SPF — and specifically a mineral SPF. My personal recommendation is Airyday Pretty in Zinc SPF50+, which is a pure zinc oxide formula that won't irritate reactive skin. For makeup, Guiya Minerals Z-Cote BB Cream is the only makeup I recommend immediately post-treatment — it's mineral-based, skin-nourishing, and won't clog the microchannels.
How much does skin needling cost in Brisbane?
At The Glow Co. Aesthetics, skin needling starts from $250 per session. We offer a tiered treatment menu with options ranging from the Essential Glow through to our Regeneration Luxe treatment. All sessions are performed by me personally — Registered Nurse Lisa, AHPRA NMW0001471748.
Is skin needling safe?
When performed by a qualified clinician using a medical-grade device, skin needling is a safe and well-tolerated procedure. It's important to have your treatment performed by a Registered Nurse or other qualified health professional. Always confirm your practitioner's AHPRA registration before proceeding with any aesthetic treatment in Queensland.
The best skin results I see in clinic consistently come from clients who commit to a full course of needling combined with a clinical skincare routine at home. The in-clinic treatment is the trigger — the homecare is what sustains it.
If you'd like to find out whether skin needling is right for your skin, I'd love to see you in clinic for a consultation. Bookings are available online 24/7.