Rafique Aesthetics

Injectable Treatments

Microneedling

Fine, controlled micro-injuries created across the skin using a microneedling device, used here alongside Dermafocus's Purasomes exosome serum to support the skin's own repair process.

Authored by Kelly Rafique, published 13 August 2026.

Clinically reviewed by Kelly Rafique, last reviewed 29 August 2026.

Appointment length: Around 60 minutes
The SKINrePEN microneedling device and handpiece used at Rafique Aesthetics

Microneedling is a skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a sterile, medical-grade device to create controlled micro-channels in the skin. This triggers the skin's natural repair response and can help improve texture, fine lines, enlarged pores, mild acne scarring and overall radiance. It's a good option for clients who want a gradual, natural-looking improvement in skin quality with minimal downtime, and it can be used on areas such as the face, neck and décolletage (and sometimes the body) depending on your concerns. Microneedling isn't suitable if you have an active skin infection (including cold sores), significant inflammatory acne in the area, a tendency to keloid scarring, or certain medical conditions/medications that affect healing—these will be assessed at consultation. A typical appointment takes around 60 minutes, including consultation, consent, preparation and aftercare advice. For best results, a course of treatments is often recommended.

We use Dermafocus's Purasomes range as part of this treatment — an exosome-based product applied to the skin alongside microneedling. Dermafocus is a UK regenerative aesthetics company; Purasomes is their exosome range, sourced from ethically-obtained bovine colostrum.

Microneedling with exosomes combines standard microneedling with the application of an exosome-containing topical serum immediately after treatment. The micro-channels created by microneedling can help enhance contact between the skin and the serum, and this combination is often chosen by clients who want an extra focus on skin recovery, hydration, glow and overall skin quality. It may be particularly appealing if your skin is prone to post-treatment redness, feels sensitised, or you're looking for a more "boosted" finish alongside your microneedling course. At consultation we'll explain the specific product we use, what it is designed to do, and what you can realistically expect. Microneedling with exosomes is still primarily a skin-quality treatment — results are gradual, individual and cannot be guaranteed.

Concerns Addressed

  • Texture
  • Pores
  • Acne Scarring

Products We Use

  • Dermafocus

Who It May Suit

  • Those looking to improve overall skin texture, tone or the appearance of fine lines and scarring

Who It May Not Suit

  • Active acne breakouts, eczema, psoriasis or infection in the treatment area
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Recent use of certain skin medications such as isotretinoin — to be discussed at consultation
  • A history of keloid scarring
  • A history of significant skin reactivity or sensitivity to topical products
  • Active inflammatory skin disease in the treatment area
picture of kelly

Performed by

Kelly Rafique

Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner

Why Choose a Registered Nurse Prescriber?

Because your safety means everything to me.

  • Over 17 years of NHS experience
  • A degree in adult nursing
  • A Master's in Advanced Clinical Practice
  • Registered as a non-medical prescriber with a V300 qualification
  • Level 7 qualification in History Taking and Physical Examination for Advancing Practice

What Happens During Treatment

We start with a consultation to confirm your goals, review your medical history and check your skin. With your consent, we will take standardised photographs for your confidential record. Your skin is thoroughly cleansed and disinfected prior to the procedure. We then perform microneedling in a controlled, systematic way across the treatment area. You may feel warmth, a scratching sensation, or a prickly vibration across the skin. A soothing serum will be applied afterwards, and we'll finish with aftercare products and SPF. Before you leave, we'll explain what your skin may look and feel like over the next few days, outline what to avoid, and book your next session if you're having a course.

Expected Results

Your skin often looks brighter and feels smoother within a few days, with more noticeable changes developing gradually over 4–8 weeks as the skin remodels. Results are not instant and vary by individual and concern.

How long results may last: Many clients choose a course spaced around 4–6 weeks apart, with ongoing maintenance treatments as needed.

Downtime & Recovery

Expect redness and a "sunburn-like" feeling for 24–48 hours. Mild swelling, tightness, dryness and light flaking can occur for a few days. Small pinpoint marks may be visible immediately after treatment, and occasional bruising can happen in delicate areas. Most clients return to normal activities the next day.

Side Effects, Risks & Contraindications

Possible side effects

  • Redness and a "sunburn-like" feeling for 24–48 hours
  • Mild swelling, tightness, dryness and light flaking for a few days
  • Small pinpoint marks immediately after treatment
  • Occasional bruising in delicate areas

Risks

  • Prolonged redness or irritation
  • Post-inflammatory pigmentation — more likely with deeper treatments or in higher Fitzpatrick skin types
  • Infection if aftercare isn't followed
  • Flare-ups of conditions such as acne, eczema or rosacea
  • Reactivation of herpes simplex (cold sores) when treating around the mouth
  • Rarely, scarring — especially in those prone to keloids

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy
  • Active infection, including cold sores
  • Active inflammatory acne in the treatment area
  • A known tendency to keloid scarring, or impaired wound healing
  • Use of certain medications such as oral isotretinoin — timing must be assessed

Aftercare

For the first 24 hours, keep the skin clean and avoid touching the area with unwashed hands. Avoid makeup for 24 hours (or as advised). Use a gentle cleanser and bland moisturiser only; avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids, benzoyl peroxide and vitamin C for 3–7 days (until any sensitivity has settled). Avoid strenuous exercise, swimming, saunas/steam rooms and very hot showers for 24–48 hours. Do not pick or scrub any flaking skin. Use a broad-spectrum SPF daily and avoid direct sun exposure for at least 1 week. Contact us promptly if you develop increasing pain, spreading redness/heat, pustules, discharge, or blistering.

Pricing

Single Treatment — EGF Glow/Tight£80
Course of 3 — EGF Glow/Tight£230
Course of 4 — EGF Glow/Tight£300
2nd, 3rd or 4th Treatment — EGF Glow/Tight (Course Only)£0
Single Treatment — Exomes (Purasomes)£180
Course of 3 — Exomes (Purasomes)£510
Course of 4 — Exomes (Purasomes)£640
2nd, 3rd or 4th Treatment — Exomes (Course Only)£0

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an appointment for Microneedling take?

Around 60 minutes

Is there any downtime after Microneedling?

Expect redness and a "sunburn-like" feeling for 24–48 hours. Mild swelling, tightness, dryness and light flaking can occur for a few days. Small pinpoint marks may be visible immediately after treatment, and occasional bruising can happen in delicate areas. Most clients return to normal activities the next day.

What results can I expect from Microneedling?

Your skin often looks brighter and feels smoother within a few days, with more noticeable changes developing gradually over 4–8 weeks as the skin remodels. Results are not instant and vary by individual and concern.

How long do the results of Microneedling last?

Many clients choose a course spaced around 4–6 weeks apart, with ongoing maintenance treatments as needed.

Results vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed. All treatments are carried out only after a full consultation to confirm suitability, discuss risks, and obtain informed consent. Prescription-only treatments are prescribed solely following an individual clinical assessment by a qualified prescriber. The information on this website is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice — please contact us with any questions about a specific treatment.

Interested in Microneedling?