What does recovery actually look like after a deeper facial microneedling session? This article follows Kim’s five-day experience after using the Dr. Pen M9 at up to 1.6 mm with Dermaheal HSR—from immediate redness and tightness through flaking and the return to a smoother-looking surface.
The Treatment: Dr. Pen M9, 18-Pin Cartridge, and Dermaheal HSR
Kim documented portions of her July 29 live treatment using a Dr. Pen M9, a sterile single-use 18-pin cartridge, and Dermaheal HSR.
The 18-pin cartridge offered more targeted control around facial contours and smaller areas. Dermaheal HSR is marketed as a cosmetic skin-rejuvenating solution containing hyaluronic acid, peptides, and other ingredients. This article records what Kim used; it does not establish that a specific product caused the visible result.
Discount codes documented for this treatment: Dr. Pen code KIMPRATT; Beauty From Korea code KAOS25.
Day 1: Redness, Tightness, and Rough Texture
At the 24-hour mark, Kim still had pronounced redness and uneven red areas. The discomfort had eased compared with immediately after treatment, and the initial tight feeling had begun to settle. Her skin felt rough as the recovery process moved toward visible flaking.
Her aftercare in the video included Rejuran Hydration PDRN, Prequel Solar Shade SPF 46, and a six-minute session with the Maysama Aura LED Face Mask (code NKAOS10).
Day 2: Dryness and Visible Flaking
By day two, dry skin was beginning to separate visibly, especially around the chin. Kim described this as part of the downtime she expects after deeper microneedling—not the finish she would seek from a shallow “glow” or cosmetic facial before an event.
Day 3: Less Redness, Continued Shedding
On day three, Kim’s forehead remained dry and flaky, but the overall redness had reduced. She continued with her hydrating serum and sunscreen. She also showed that makeup could provide coverage while she continued filming, although the underlying skin was still recovering.
Day 4: The Final Stage of Exfoliation
Flaking was still visible on day four. Kim again documented her personal exfoliation routine and showed the appearance of her skin after showering. The key point was not that everyone should follow the same routine, but that deeper microneedling can involve several days of conspicuous redness, dryness, and shedding.
Day 5: Redness and Flaking Had Subsided
By the fifth morning, Kim reported that the visible redness had diminished, there was no bruising, and the exfoliating skin had released. She finished with the same PDRN product and sunscreen and showed how makeup had applied during the later recovery period.
What This Five-Day Recovery Shows
- Deeper microneedling can create meaningful visible downtime.
- Redness may remain pronounced at 24 hours.
- Dryness and flaking can continue for several days.
- Recovery is individual; one person’s timeline does not predict another’s.
- Sun protection and conservative, appropriate aftercare remain important.
Products Mentioned in the Video
- Dr. Pen M9 — code KIMPRATT
- Dermaheal HSR — code KAOS25
- Rejuran Hydration PDRN
- Prequel Solar Shade SPF 46
- Maysama Aura LED Face Mask — code NKAOS10
- The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution — documented personal use; see caution above
Some links are affiliate links. Natural Kaos may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Codes and tracked links are shown only where they have been documented.
Frequently Asked Questions
What depth did Kim use for this facial microneedling session?
She documented 1.6 mm on selected facial areas, 1.0 mm on her forehead, and 0.6 mm around her eyelids.
Which microneedling pen and cartridge did she use?
Kim used the Dr. Pen M9 with a sterile single-use 18-pin cartridge.
How long did the visible recovery take?
In this personal diary, pronounced redness was visible at 24 hours, flaking continued over the next several days, and by day five the visible redness and shedding had subsided. Recovery varies by person and treatment.
Is 1.6 mm microneedling appropriate for beginners?
This article does not recommend a depth. A 1.6 mm treatment is advanced and carries risks. Device instructions and appropriately qualified professional guidance should determine whether microneedling—or a particular depth—is suitable for an individual.
Can strong acids be used during microneedling recovery?
The video documents Kim’s personal use of a strong exfoliating solution. That is not general aftercare guidance. Recently treated skin may be more vulnerable to irritation and injury, so follow product instructions and seek qualified professional advice before combining procedures.
Medical Disclaimer
This article reflects personal experience and is provided for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Microneedling can cause irritation, infection, scarring, prolonged inflammation, and pigment changes when performed improperly or on unsuitable skin. Follow device and product instructions, maintain appropriate sanitation, and consult a licensed professional about your individual circumstances.
Continue Exploring
Read how Kim prepares and numbs before deeper microneedling, review the Dermaheal HSR treatment article, or browse the advanced skincare video library.
Continue inside Natural Kaos
Explore complete treatment journeys, weekly Lives, searchable discussions, product sourcing, and the follow-up details that short-form platforms leave out.