The 12-pin delivers concentrated, focused penetration into the dermis — where fibroblasts live. Fibroblasts are the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. Creating controlled micro-injuries at this depth triggers the wound-healing cascade: growth factors release, fibroblasts activate, and new organized collagen begins to form.

Why PDRN, exosomes, or GF11?

Now that needles are reaching the dermis, the serum has a different job. PDRN supports cellular repair and activates fibroblasts to enhance collagen synthesis. Exosomes amplify the skin's repair response. GF11 signals fibroblasts to produce new collagen and elastin. These aren't generic serums — they're precision tools matched to what's happening in the skin.

Why 0.25–1.0 mm?

This range targets the papillary dermis without going deep enough to cause unnecessary trauma. Different face zones require different depths — delicate areas like the eyes and nose stay at 0.25 mm, while thicker areas like the cheeks handle 0.75–1.0 mm. Depth is mapped to anatomy, not applied uniformly.

Why every 4–6 weeks?

After a Level 2 session, your fibroblasts spend the next 4–6 weeks producing and organizing new collagen. The collagen cycle doesn't peak immediately — it continues long after the visible redness is gone. Treating again before that cycle finishes doesn't accelerate results. It interrupts them.

Every decision in this protocol has a specific biological reason. Here's why Level 2 is built the way it is.

Cartridge: 12-Pin

Depth: 0.25 – 1.0 mm

Forehead: 0.5 mm
Around Eyes: 0.25 mm
Nose: 0.25 mm
Cheeks: 0.75 – 1.0 mm
Around Lips: 0.25 mm
Chin: 0.75 – 1.0mm
Neck: 0.5 mm

Speed: 4

3 controlled passes per area

- vertical, horizontal, diagonal or circular

Stop if skin becomes overly red or irritated

Every 4–6 weeks

*Fitzpatrick IV-VI users should consider more conservative depths due to increased PIH risk.

Before Treatment

Wash hands thoroughly
Cleanse skin
Disinfect treatment area
Use sterile cartridge
Tie hair back
Apply numbing cream if desired
Remove numbing completely
Disinfect skin with 70% rubbing alcohol
Dry skin
Allow alcohol to fully evaporate before beginning treatment

LEVEL 2 • STIMULATE - Protocol

During Treatment - Active First → Slip Second → Needle → Reapply Active

Apply Active Serum
Apply Slip - Stayve HA
Work in sections:
- 1. Vertical passes
- 2. Horizontal passes
- 3. Diagonal or Circular passes
Keep skin taut.
Do NOT drag the pen
Lift pen between sections
Add additional HA whenever glide decreases
Pat remaining Active Serum onto skin afterward

Endpoint

You want:

Pinkness/redness
Mild erythema

NOT

Excessive bleeding
Scratching torn skin

Speed Settings

Lower speeds:

More control
Better for beginners
Better for delicate areas

Higher speeds:

Faster treatment
More aggressive
Better for thicker skin/scarring

💧 Glide Requirement (All Levels):

Always use a hydrating slip serum to minimize friction and protect the skin barrier during microneedling. Hyaluronic acid-based formulas are ideal—options like Stayve Hyaluronic Acid and Hyaron provide excellent glide and hydration support.

🚫 Avoid during microneedling:

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)
Retinoids
Acids (AHA/BHA/PHA)
Fragrance
Essential oils

LEVEL 2 • STIMULATE - Monthly Schedule

LEVEL 2: STIMULATE → 8-WEEK SCHEDULE

DOWNLOAD SCHEDULE

If following the 8-Week Microneedling Schedule, it is recommended to pause

Vitamin C and Tretinoin during the treatment and recovery period.

THE SKIN DEEP METHOD™

The Recovery System

Your skin doesn't improve during the treatment — it improves during the healing phase. What you do in the 7 days after your session determines how much of your result you actually keep.

LEVEL 2 • STIMULATE - Aftercare

PHASE 1

Hydrate

DAY 0

Treatment day — flood skin with hydration immediately after. HA serums only. No actives.

PHASE 2

Repair

DAY 1

Barrier repair begins — gentle cleanse with Cetaphil, layer hydrating serums, no exfoliants.

PHASE 3

Heal

DAY 2-4