Dr. Pen Microneedling Depth Guide
| Skin Area | Depth | Safety Notes & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Forehead | 0.25 - 0.5mm | Thin skin near bone; avoid deep settings to limit discomfort. |
| Eyes Area | 0.25mm | Highly delicate; use the lowest setting or Nano-needles only. |
| Nose | 0.25 - 0.5mm | Dense tissue; use small circular motions to shrink pores. |
| Cheek Bone | 0.5mm | Bony area; use shallower depth than the fleshy cheek part. |
| Cheeks | 0.5 - 1.0mm | Fleshy area; ideal for stimulating collagen production. |
| Lips Area | 0.25 - 0.5mm | Sensitive; effective for treating fine "smoker’s lines". |
| Neck | 0.25 - 0.5mm | Thin skin; avoid thyroid area, focus on horizontal lines. |
| Scars | 1.0 - 1.5mm | Dermis depth; numbing cream is strongly advised. |
| Body | 1.5 - 2.0mm | Body skin is thicker; deeper penetration needed for marks. |
How Microneedling Works
From superficial hydration to deep dermis renewal—explore our primary benefits chart to find the perfect needle depth for your unique skincare goals.

Frequently Asked Questions
I'm nervous about going too deep. What’s the best way to start?
I'm nervous about going too deep. What’s the best way to start?
It’s completely normal to feel a bit hesitant! We always recommend the "Start Shallow" approach. Begin your first session at 0.25mm across your entire face. This allows you to get used to the sensation and see how your skin reacts. You can always gradually increase the depth in future sessions as your confidence and skin tolerance grow.
Does a deeper needle setting always lead to better results?
Does a deeper needle setting always lead to better results?
Not necessarily. More depth isn't always "better"—it's about reaching the right layer of skin for your specific goal. For example, glowing skin only requires a shallow 0.25mm, while acne scars might need 1.0mm. Going deeper than necessary won't speed up results; it only increases downtime and irritation. Follow our guide to find the "sweet spot" for your needs.
Why do some areas, like the forehead, feel more sensitive than others?
Why do some areas, like the forehead, feel more sensitive than others?
Great question! Areas where the skin sits directly over bone (like the forehead, bridge of the nose, and cheekbones) tend to feel more vibration and sensitivity. On these "bony" areas, we suggest keeping the depth shallower (0.25mm - 0.5mm) to ensure a more comfortable experience without sacrificing results.
Can I change the depth setting in the middle of my session?
Can I change the depth setting in the middle of my session?
Yes, and you actually should! Your face isn't one uniform thickness. As you move from your fleshy cheeks (0.75mm) to your delicate under-eye area (0.25mm), you should adjust the dial on your Dr. Pen. This "zonal" approach ensures every part of your face gets exactly what it needs safely.
When should I consider using a numbing cream?
When should I consider using a numbing cream?
For shallow treatments (0.25mm - 0.5mm), most users find the sensation quite manageable without numbing. However, if you are targeting deep scars or stretch marks at 1.0mm or deeper, a topical numbing cream can make the process significantly more comfortable. Your comfort is key to a consistent routine!