Everything You Need to Know About Liquid Microneedling Products

If you’re as skincare-obsessed as we are, it’s safe to say you’ve heard of microneedling. Maybe you’ve had a microneedling treatment, or even have your own at-home derma-roller device. (If you’re not familiar with microneedling, the TLDR is that the treatment uses tiny needles to create micro-punctures in the skin, which triggers the body’s natural healing process of building more collagen, resulting in smoother, healthier-looking skin.) But what about those of us who prefer a needle-free approach but still want the same texture, tone, and youth-boosting benefits that traditional microneedling offers? Enter liquid microneedling.

Spoiler alert: Liquid microneedling doesn’t involve needles, but rather uses microscopic particles or “spicules” in liquid formulations to create similar holes or channels in the skin, prompting the healing process and also allowing other skincare ingredients to penetrate further into the dermis for better results. For more on the science behind the innovative product category, we tapped dermatologists Dendy Engelman, MD, and Alexandra Bowles, DO, and esthetician Monika Dragaj. Below, they share everything you need to know about liquid microneedling, including the products that mimic a professional treatment.

What Is Liquid Microneedling?

“Liquid microneedling is a needle-free topical skin treatment in which ‘spicules,’ or microscopic needles (often derived from sea sponges), are combined with a topical formula (serum or gel), then applied to the skin,” explains Dr. Engelman. The idea is that these spicules “create micro-injuries in the dermis, thus stimulating collagen and elastin production while allowing topical ingredients to penetrate more deeply and therefore work more effectively.” The treatment is considered non-invasive, but, as Dr. Bowles points out, it’s still able to “create a mild, temporary sensation that triggers the skin’s natural repair process.”

Dragaj, who offers a liquid microneedling treatment at her studio, shares that the formula she uses contains 50,000 microspears along with other key ingredients such as “a blend of amino acids for repair, a calming complex with high antioxidants to soothe the skin, niacinamide to brighten, and other soothing botanicals.” But, depending on what someone’s skin needs, the treatment can be tailored to their concerns, using ingredients that are best-suited for them.

How Does It Work?

“When massaged into the skin, the ‘spicules’ (microscopic needles) in the liquid microneedling treatment create controlled, gentle injuries in the skin barrier, which trigger the skin’s natural repair processes and allow topical actives to penetrate and work more effectively,” explains Dr. Engelman.

In comparison to a traditional microneedling treatment, liquid microneedling is way less aggressive. “There is no numbing required, no bleeding, and less downtime,” says Dragaj. She adds that it’s less invasive and is basically pain-free; “the most you feel is a bit of prickly sensation,” and there’s minimal downtime.

However, because liquid microneedling products are less invasive, results won’t be as drastic. “Professional microneedling uses precise, medical-grade needles to penetrate deeper into the dermis, triggering more significant collagen production and long-term skin remodeling,” says Dr. Engelman. “Liquid microneedling products work on a more superficial level, so results tend to be subtler and require consistent use.”

Who Is It For?

“Liquid microneedling can be a good choice for people who want to brighten a dull complexion, smooth rough patches, or boost radiance without visiting a clinic,” says Dr. Bowles. “In addition to promoting collagen and elastin production, liquid microneedling helps improve skin texture and tone and enhances hydration and skin vitality,” adds Dr. Engelman.

Liquid microneedling products are also going to be less costly than an in-office procedure, so it’s helpful for someone who’s looking for subtle skin improvements on a budget. But consistency is also key, so these products will have to be used regularly to see the benefits.

Although liquid microneedling is a great option for many, as it’s less invasive, it’s not for everyone. “It is not suitable for those with very sensitive skin, eczema, rosacea, active acne, or open wounds, as it can cause irritation,” says Dr. Bowles.

Dragaj also flags that for someone with deeper acne scars or deep wrinkles, a traditional microneedling treatment would be a better fit, as deeper penetration of the skin is necessary.

Key Ingredients

Unsurprisingly, the main ingredient in liquid microneedling products is the spicules themselves, which are responsible for creating the tiny tears in the skin. They are “microscopic needle-like structures often derived from freshwater sponges or marine plants,” explains Dr. Bowles. And “they act as both a mechanical exfoliant and a delivery system for active ingredients.” Paired with the spicules, you’ll often find “hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to plump the skin; peptides and growth factors to support collagen and repair; antioxidants such as vitamin C or green tea to help protect and brighten; and niacinamide to calm and strengthen the skin barrier,” furthers Dr. Engelman. “These ingredients help ensure that the micro-stimulation not only boosts absorption but also delivers targeted results for smoother, more radiant skin.”

You may also find soothing botanicals like aloe or centella asiatica to help balance stimulation with skin-calming benefits, adds. Dr. Bowles.

Expert-Approved Products

There are multiple liquid microneedling products on the market. If you aren’t sure exactly where to start, below are the top five choices according to our experts.

Medicube Zero Exosome Shot

Dr. Engelman recommends Medicube Exosome Shot, which uses patented exosome-coated spicules. But the real standout with this product is that it comes in two strengths: 2,000 ppm for beginners, and 7,500 ppm for experienced users. Because of these options, “it’s a great option no matter your comfort level,” she says.

Mediheal Collagen Spicule 1000ppm Intensive Serum

Often, masks or hydrating serums will be recommended after a professional microneedling treatment when the channels are open in the skin. The Mediheal Collagen Spicule Intensive Serum incorporates this idea with a two-step system. The first is an ampule that contains the spicules and the second is a collagen-infused gel sheet mask meant to refine the appearance of pores.

Rael Miracle Clear Microcrystal Activated PM Serum 5000

This formula is part of the brand’s Clear line, which is formulated for treating breakouts and fading post-acne marks. Its spicules are coated with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial azaleic acid to bust blemishes.

SUNGBOON EDITOR Deep Collagen Retinol Power Boosting Capsule Cream

This Sungboon Editor cream is an example of a liquid microneedling formula that’s meant to firm and smooth. The super-satisfying collagen-wrapped capsules, which house the skin-puncturing spicules, burst upon contact and drive retinol and collagen deep into the skin.

Mixsoon Peptide Cica Hyal-Shot Hyaluronic Acid Serum

As Dr. Bowles mentioned, this mixsoon serum includes centella asiatica or cica, which is known for having a soothing, anti-redness effect on the skin. Paired with peptides and hyaluronic acid, this formula is hydrating and pore-tightening.

The Final Takeaway

In terms of technology, liquid microneedling products are an impressive advancement, offering results somewhat similar to a traditional microneedling treatment. Because these products are needle-free, they’re not going to be able to offer the same types of results as the in-office version, but they’re showing great promise in benefits beyond your typical skincare formulations.

Liquid microneedling products come in a variety of formulas and utilize different types of spicules, some being coated in active ingredients to yield even better benefits, thanks to the ability to drive potent actives deeper into the skin. These formulas are meant to be used regularly and will not be as effective if used only occasionally. Certain people, such as those with sensitive skin, active breakouts, or rosacea flares, should avoid liquid microneedling products as they could worsen their condition.