Microneedling and Cold Argon Plasma Southampton
Derma stamp, derma rolling and cold atmospheric argon plasma skin rejuvenation
Looking for a treatment that targets skin texture, fine lines, enlarged pores, acne scarring and overall skin quality without aggressive laser resurfacing? We combine professional microneedling using derma stamp and derma roller techniques with advanced cold atmospheric plasma using argon gas. Microneedling creates thousands of controlled microscopic channels, stimulating your body’s natural repair response. Cold argon plasma is then incorporated as a non-thermal stage where appropriate.
- Professional microneedling
- Derma stamp techniques
- Derma roller techniques
- Cold atmospheric plasma
- Argon gas technology
- Individual needle-depth selection
- Face and body
- Acne-scar programmes
- Over 15 years’ experience
- Clients aged 18+ only
From £69 per session
Full consultation and skin assessment included
- Over 15 years’ advanced aesthetic experience
- Professional skin assessment
- Individual needle-depth selection
- Skin-of-colour treatment planning
- Professional infection-control procedures
- Clear referral boundaries
Microneedling intentionally creates temporary microscopic channels in the skin. That makes professional skin preparation, sterile needles, single-use components and correct aftercare extremely important. Microneedling should never be treated like an ordinary facial.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy. It uses multiple very fine sterile needles to create controlled microscopic channels within the skin.
These tiny controlled injuries stimulate the skin’s natural wound-healing response. As the skin repairs itself, processes associated with collagen, elastin and skin remodelling are stimulated. Microneedling does not simply exfoliate the surface; it is designed to create controlled stimulation within the skin itself.
Over time it can help improve the appearance of
What is cold atmospheric argon plasma?
Cold atmospheric plasma, often shortened to CAP, is an ionised gas generated at temperatures suitable for controlled application to biological tissue. Our treatment uses argon gas to generate it.
Argon is an inert noble gas that can act as the carrier gas for cold plasma generation. When energy is applied to argon within a suitable device, the gas becomes partially ionised, producing a controlled cold-plasma field containing reactive species. Cold atmospheric argon plasma has been investigated scientifically for several potential biological effects, including its interaction with microorganisms and healing tissue.
Despite the word plasma, this is not the same as hot plasma or fibroblast treatments. Cold plasma is non-ablative. It does not intentionally burn or carbonise the skin, and it does not create the visible thermal dots or the longer healing period associated with hot plasma.
Microneedling
Creates controlled microchannels and stimulates the skin’s natural wound-remodelling response.
Cold atmospheric argon plasma
Provides a non-thermal plasma stage that interacts with the skin surface and the immediate post-treatment environment.
Combining them lets us address controlled collagen induction and post-treatment cold-plasma skin care within one appointment. The exact sequence and suitability depend on your individual skin.
Derma stamp and derma roller are not the same thing
We use both, chosen according to the skin concern and the treatment area. We do not believe every part of the skin should automatically be treated using exactly the same technique.
Derma stamp
A cluster of fine needles in a smaller treatment head, applied in a controlled stamping motion rather than rolling continuously.
- Individual acne scars
- Smaller areas
- Uneven scar depth
- Localised textural concerns
- Areas needing more precision
- Harder-to-reach facial contours
Derma roller
A cylindrical roller containing multiple fine needles. Different rolling directions create an even treatment pattern across the area.
- Larger facial areas
- Neck
- Décolletage
- Body areas
- Stretch marks
- Widespread texture concerns
Many clients receive rolling across the wider area with targeted stamping over individual points of concern. Your technique is selected according to your skin rather than a generic routine.
Microneedling and cold argon plasma prices
Every treatment includes professional microneedling, derma stamp or derma roller as appropriate, cold atmospheric argon plasma and post-treatment skin care.
| Treatment area | Single session | Course of 3 | Course of 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full face | £69 | £179 | £329 |
| Face and neck | £89 | £239 | £429 |
| Face, neck and décolletage | £109 | £289 | £529 |
| Acne scarring, full face | From £79 | From £210 | From £399 |
| Small localised scar area | From £49 | – | – |
| Body and stretch marks | From £89 | – | – |
The acne scarring programme includes targeted derma stamp treatment where appropriate. Body and stretch mark pricing depends on the size of the treatment area and a quotation is provided at consultation.
What microneedling and cold plasma can treat
Acne scarring
Widely used for suitable atrophic acne scars, particularly rolling scars, shallow boxcar scars and general acne-related textural irregularity. Very deep ice-pick scars may need a different or combination approach.
Enlarged pores
Pores cannot literally be permanently closed, but improving the surrounding skin quality can make them appear less noticeable.
Fine lines
Collagen induction may soften the appearance of suitable fine lines across the forehead, cheeks, around the mouth, jawline, neck and décolletage.
Skin texture
Useful where skin feels rough, uneven, crepey or texturally irregular. The aim is gradual remodelling rather than temporary surface smoothness.
Dull and tired skin
Improved turnover and remodelling can contribute to fresher-looking skin, better texture and a brighter complexion.
Stretch marks
Stretch marks are a form of dermal scarring. Suitable ones can be treated on the stomach, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms and, where appropriate, the breasts. A course is required rather than one appointment.
Not every acne scar should be treated the same way
During consultation we assess whether your scarring appears predominantly rolling, boxcar, ice-pick, mixed, pigment-related or redness-related. This matters because different scar types respond differently.
Microneedling can be particularly useful for suitable rolling and shallower textural scarring. Deeper scars may require another treatment or a combination approach. For selected scars we can use a targeted derma stamp technique, concentrating treatment over specific areas rather than repeatedly treating completely normal surrounding skin at the same intensity, then combine that with broader rolling where appropriate.
Can microneedling treat active acne?
Microneedling is used for acne scarring and skin remodelling, not for needling through significant active inflammatory acne. We avoid directly needling inflamed pustules, active infected lesions, significant cystic acne and open acne lesions, because needling through active lesions may increase irritation and potentially spread inflammatory material across the treatment area.
If active acne is your main concern, we may recommend our IPL acne treatment or another acne-management pathway first. Once breakouts are better controlled, microneedling can then be considered for the residual scarring.
Microneedling and melanin-rich skin
Microneedling can be an excellent option for many clients with melanin-rich skin, because it does not rely on targeting melanin the way some light-based treatments do.
However, darker skin can still develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, irritation or an uneven pigment response if treatment is performed too aggressively. Microneedling itself causes controlled inflammation, so clients susceptible to PIH require careful planning.
Before recommending treatment we assess
Treatment depth and technique are individually selected according to the client’s skin rather than ethnicity alone. We welcome Black, Asian, Middle Eastern, mixed-heritage clients and clients across the full spectrum of skin tones, following assessment.
How many treatments, and how often
General rejuvenation
Approximately 3 treatments may be enough for clients wanting general improvement in skin texture and appearance.
Acne scarring
Approximately 3 to 6 treatments. More significant scarring may need additional treatment or a combination approach.
Stretch marks
Approximately 4 to 6 or more, depending on the age of the marks, their depth, the treatment area and how your skin responds.
Sessions are generally performed approximately every four to six weeks, varying with needle depth, treatment area, skin response, scar severity and healing. Deeper treatments need more recovery time than very superficial ones, and your skin must be fully recovered before another session.
Much of the benefit happens after the appointment, while the skin repairs and remodels. Collagen-related processes continue for weeks. Performing another aggressive treatment too early does not produce faster results. Allowing recovery time is part of the treatment.
What happens during your treatment
Consultation and skin assessment
We discuss your skin concerns, acne history, scarring, pigmentation, previous treatments, medication, medical history, current skincare and treatment goals.
Skin preparation
The area is thoroughly cleansed and prepared, and strict infection-control procedures are followed.
Needle depth selection
Depth is chosen according to treatment area, skin thickness, scar depth, treatment goal, individual tolerance and practitioner assessment. We do not use one depth across the whole face for convenience.
Derma rolling
Where appropriate, the roller is passed systematically over the area using a controlled pattern for even coverage.
Targeted stamping
Areas needing more focused work, such as individual scars or localised texture irregularities, may be treated with the stamp.
Cold argon plasma and aftercare
Where appropriate, the skin is treated with cold atmospheric argon plasma, then assessed, and suitable post-treatment skincare applied with detailed aftercare instructions.
How it feels, and what happens afterwards
How it feels
Most clients describe scratching, tingling, vibrating or mild prickling. The forehead, hairline, upper lip and jawline can feel more sensitive. Intensity depends on the depth required.
Will I bleed?
It depends on depth. Superficial rejuvenation may cause pinkness or mild redness. Deeper scar-remodelling work may produce pinpoint bleeding and more significant redness.
A more dramatic visual endpoint does not automatically mean a better treatment. The aim is controlled treatment appropriate to your skin.
Downtime
First 24 hours: redness, warmth and tightness. Twenty-four to seventy-two hours: mild redness, dryness, tightness and slight flaking. After that the skin gradually settles. Deeper treatments take longer, and your expected recovery is explained before treatment.
When will I see results?
Some clients notice fresher-looking skin, improved glow and smoother texture early in recovery. But collagen remodelling develops gradually, and improvements in scars, fine lines, texture and stretch marks may continue over several weeks to months.
The treatment creates the stimulus. Your skin performs the repair work. That is why it is called collagen induction therapy, and why remodelling continues long after the redness has gone.
How it compares with other treatments
Versus fractional CO2 laser
Microneedling is controlled mechanical micro-injury with less intensive downtime, suitable across a broad range of concerns and skin types, producing gradual remodelling. Fractional CO2 is ablative resurfacing: more intensive, more downtime, more significant resurfacing, and may suit deeper textural damage in appropriately selected clients.
Versus IPL
IPL primarily targets colour: pigmentation, redness, vascular concerns and active acne protocols. Microneedling primarily targets texture, scarring, collagen induction, fine lines and stretch marks. Some clients eventually have both as part of a wider programme, scheduled appropriately rather than combined indiscriminately.
Versus cold plasma alone
They are not substitutes for each other. Microneedling creates controlled microscopic channels and a wound-remodelling response. Cold plasma is non-thermal and interacts with the skin surface without deliberately creating channels. Here they are used together where appropriate.
Does microneedling remove acne scars completely?
No. No responsible clinic should promise complete removal. Microneedling aims to improve their appearance, and results depend on scar type, depth, age, skin type, individual collagen response and the number of treatments. Some scars respond substantially better than others.
When we will not treat
Microneedling may not be appropriate if you have:
Your full medical history is reviewed before treatment. Treatments are available to clients aged 18 and over only, in accordance with our insurance requirements.
Why infection control matters
Because the treatment intentionally creates temporary microscopic channels in the skin, professional skin preparation, sterile needles, single-use treatment components, hand hygiene, environmental hygiene and correct post-treatment care are not optional extras. They are the treatment.
Preparing, and caring for your skin afterwards
Before your treatment
- Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and sunbeds
- Do not use fake tan on the area
- Tell us about medication changes
- Tell us about prescription skincare
- Follow instructions regarding retinoids and exfoliating acids
- Avoid deliberately irritating the skin
- Tell us about active cold sores
Do not stop prescribed medication without advice from your prescribing clinician.
After your treatment
- Keep your skin clean and avoid touching it unnecessarily
- Avoid picking or scratching
- Avoid strong actives, retinoids and exfoliating acids until advised
- Avoid saunas, steam rooms and excessive sweating initially
- Avoid swimming until advised
- Protect your skin from UV and use SPF once advised
Your skin barrier is temporarily more vulnerable, so aftercare is extremely important.
Makeup. We generally recommend avoiding it immediately after treatment, because the skin contains temporary microchannels and should be kept as clean as possible during initial recovery. Your practitioner will tell you when it can safely be reapplied.
More than standard microneedling
Microneedling is widely available. There is a significant difference between rolling needles over the skin and performing a properly assessed professional collagen-induction treatment.
Professional derma rolling for controlled wider-area treatment, targeted derma stamping where greater precision is needed, and cold atmospheric argon plasma as an additional non-thermal stage where appropriate. That combination lets us build a personalised treatment rather than using the same technique on every client.
Frequently asked questions
What is microneedling?
Fine sterile needles create controlled microscopic channels within the skin, stimulating natural repair and collagen-remodelling processes.
What is a derma roller?
A cylindrical device containing multiple fine needles, rolled systematically across the skin.
What is a derma stamp?
A smaller cluster of needles used in a controlled stamping technique, particularly useful for individual scars and localised areas.
Do you use both?
Yes. Depending on your plan we may roll for general coverage and stamp for specific areas needing more targeted treatment.
What is cold argon plasma?
A non-thermal plasma technology generated using argon gas. It is different from hot plasma and fibroblast treatments.
Is cold plasma hot?
It is designed to operate without intentionally producing the ablative heat associated with hot plasma treatments.
Why combine the two?
They work differently. Microneedling provides controlled collagen-induction stimulation; cold plasma provides an additional non-thermal stage.
Does cold plasma kill bacteria?
Research using specific cold atmospheric argon plasma systems has demonstrated reductions in bacterial load. However, outcomes depend on the device and protocol, and we do not market cold plasma as a replacement for medical treatment of infection.
Can microneedling treat acne scars?
Suitable acne scars can respond well, particularly rolling and shallower boxcar scars.
Can it remove them completely?
No. The aim is improvement rather than guaranteed complete removal.
Can I have it with active acne?
Significant active inflammatory or infected acne is not directly needled. We may recommend bringing active acne under control first.
Does it help wrinkles?
It may improve the appearance of suitable fine lines through gradual remodelling.
Does it help pores?
It can improve overall texture and make enlarged pores appear less noticeable.
Can it help stretch marks?
Yes, suitable stretch marks can be treated. Multiple sessions are usually required.
How many sessions will I need?
General rejuvenation approximately 3. Acne scarring approximately 3 to 6. Stretch marks approximately 4 to 6 or more.
How often can I have it?
Generally approximately every four to six weeks, depending on depth, skin response and treatment area.
Does it hurt?
Most clients describe scratching, tingling or prickling. Intensity depends on the area and needle depth.
Is there downtime?
Redness, warmth, dryness and sensitivity are common temporarily. Deeper treatments involve more downtime.
Is it suitable for darker skin?
It can be suitable for many darker skin types following assessment. All skin types can develop complications including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so treatment must be individualised.
Is this the same as a home derma roller?
No. Professional microneedling involves controlled depth, professional assessment, sterile components and proper infection-control protocols.
What age do I need to be?
You must be 18 or older. We cannot treat under-18s due to our insurance requirements.
Book your microneedling and cold plasma consultation
If you are concerned about acne scars, fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven texture, stretch marks or overall skin quality, our combination treatment may suit you.
We will assess your skin and determine which areas should be rolled, which would benefit from targeted stamping, the appropriate treatment depth, and whether cold atmospheric argon plasma should be incorporated into your protocol.
Every client’s skin is different. Your microneedling treatment should be too.
SkinTastic Aesthetics Southampton
26 The Avenue
Southampton
SO17 1XL
Telephone: 02381 946394
