A puncture depth of 2mm is utilized specifically to target the reticular layer of the dermis, which is the anatomical location where severe atrophic acne scars are rooted.
Unlike superficial treatments, a 2mm depth ensures the microneedles penetrate through the epidermis to reach the deep dermal layers. This depth is necessary to physically break down the old fibrotic strands that anchor the scar tissue downwards and to stimulate the deep-layer collagen regeneration required for significant skin remodeling.
Core Takeaway Severe atrophic scars are structural defects located deep within the skin, not just surface imperfections. A 2mm depth is required to mechanically sever the fibrous tethers pulling the skin down and to initiate structural repair in the reticular dermis, effectively filling the scar from the inside out.
Targeting the Source of the Scar
Reaching the Pathological Foundation
The pathology of deep atrophic scars lies within the deeper levels of the skin structure. Treating these scars requires bypassing the surface layers to address the damage where it originates.
A depth of 2mm allows the device to reach the reticular dermis. This is the thick, bottom layer of the dermis where collagen fibers are dense and where the structural "collapse" of an atrophic scar occurs.
Breaking Down Fibrotic Strands
Severe acne scars are often held in a depressed state by old, hardened scar tissue that acts like an anchor.
At a 2mm depth, the physical stimulation of the needles effectively breaks down these fibrotic strands. By mechanically severing the tissue that pulls the skin inward, the skin is released, allowing the depression to eventually rise and smooth out.
The Mechanism of Structural Remodeling
Triggering the Healing Cascade
The process relies on creating controlled micro-injuries or micro-channels deep in the tissue.
This mechanical stimulation triggers the body's natural wound-healing mechanism. Unlike ablative lasers that remove tissue, this process preserves the epidermal integrity while provoking a healing response deep below the surface.
Inducing Collagen Regeneration
Once the micro-trauma occurs in the reticular dermis, a biological cascade begins.
The body activates fibroblasts to produce new collagen and elastin fibers. Because the injury is located deep within the skin (1.5mm to 2mm), this new collagen matrix forms at the base of the scar, effectively "filling in" the depression with fresh, healthy tissue.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Intensity and Recovery
While 2mm is effective for deep scars, it represents a more aggressive treatment than cosmetic microneedling (often <0.5mm).
At this depth, pinpoint bleeding and micro-bruising are expected and necessary endpoints. The recovery time is longer compared to shallow treatments, as the deeper layers of the skin must heal.
Precision is Critical
Deeper is not always better; accuracy is the goal.
Going significantly deeper than necessary can risk damage to subcutaneous tissue, while going too shallow will fail to reach the fibrotic anchor points. The 1.5mm to 2.5mm range is the clinical "sweet spot" for atrophic scarring, balancing efficacy with safety.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
To achieve the best results, you must align the needle depth with the specific skin condition you are treating.
- If your primary focus is Severe Atrophic Scars: You must utilize a depth of 1.5mm to 2mm to reach the reticular dermis and break fibrous tethers.
- If your primary focus is Surface Texture or Pigmentation: A depth of 2mm is likely unnecessary; shallower depths are sufficient to renew the epidermis without deep trauma.
Success in treating severe scarring comes from stimulating the skin at the exact level where the structural damage exists.
Summary Table:
| Feature | 0.5mm - 1.0mm Depth | 1.5mm - 2.5mm Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Target Layer | Epidermis & Papillary Dermis | Reticular Dermis |
| Primary Goal | Texture, Pigment & Fine Lines | Deep Atrophic Scars & Fibrotic Strands |
| Mechanism | Surface Renewal | Deep Structural Remodeling |
| Recovery | 1-2 Days (Mild Redness) | 3-7 Days (Pinpoint Bleeding) |
| Best For | Mild skin rejuvenation | Severe acne scarring & deep defects |
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References
- Agata Pakla-Misiur, Igor Bednarski. Double-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing theuse of microneedling alone vs chemical peeling alone vsa combination of microneedling and chemical peeling inthe treatment of atrophic post-acne scars. An assessmentof clinical effectiveness and patients’ quality-of-life. DOI: 10.5114/ada.2021.108913
This article is also based on technical information from Belislaser Knowledge Base .
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