How Microneedling Boosts Collagen: The Science Behind It: Featuring NCTF® 135HA as a Topical Glide Agent

Collagen is often referred to as the “scaffolding” of the skin. It gives our faces strength, firmness, and bounce. Yet by our late 20s, natural collagen production starts to decline—leading to loss of volume, fine lines, and changes in skin texture.

Microneedling has emerged as a highly effective, non-surgical way to stimulate collagen production and improve overall skin quality. But like many treatments in aesthetics, its true power lies not just in the technique—but in what you pair it with. One standout example? NCTF® 135HA, a scientifically formulated blend of hyaluronic acid and revitalising ingredients that can be used as a glide agent to enhance treatment outcomes.

This article dives into the science behind microneedling, the importance of the right glide medium, and why NCTF® 135HA is gaining increasing popularity among patients and practitioners alike.

The Science of Microneedling: What Happens Beneath the Surface

Microneedling—also known as collagen induction therapy—involves creating thousands of tiny punctures in the upper layers of the skin using sterile microneedles. While these micro-injuries are too small to cause scarring, they’re just enough to trigger your body’s natural healing mechanisms.

Three Key Phases of the Microneedling Response

1. Inflammation – Within minutes, immune cells are activated. Platelets release growth factors (e.g. TGF‑β, PDGF, VEGF), which signal fibroblasts to migrate to the area and begin regeneration.

2. Proliferation – Fibroblasts begin producing type I and III collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronic acid. This stage also promotes the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), improving skin tone and texture.

3. Remodelling – Over the following weeks and months, newly formed collagen matures and reorganises, leading to firmer, plumper, and more youthful-looking skin.

   
   

What It Can Treat

Microneedling is effective in addressing:

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Enlarged pores

• Acne scarring

• Pigmentation irregularities

• Mild skin laxity

• Dull or rough skin texture

Its minimal downtime and versatility across skin types make it a go-to option for both early rejuvenation and long-term maintenance.

Why the Glide Agent Matters

During microneedling, a topical serum—called a glide agent—is applied to help the needles move smoothly across the skin. This might seem like a purely mechanical step, but it’s actually a critical part of the treatment.

A high-quality glide agent can:

• Reduce friction and trauma on the skin’s surface

• Improve comfort for the patient

• Prevent drag, helping the device move smoothly

• Deliver bioactive ingredients deep into the epidermis and dermis via micro-channels

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This makes the choice of glide agent a key clinical decision. Rather than using a basic hyaluronic acid gel or saline, many practitioners now opt for solutions with added therapeutic value.

NCTF® 135HA: Not Just a Serum, a Bioactive Powerhouse

NCTF® 135HA is a sterile, CE-marked polyrevitalising solution from Fillmed Laboratories. Originally developed for injectable mesotherapy, it’s also used topically in microneedling treatments—particularly at superficial depths (e.g. 0.5–0.6 mm), which allow dermal absorption without the need for injection.

What’s in It?

• Non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid (5 mg/mL) – for immediate hydration and dermal support

• Vitamins – including A, B5, C, and E, to support collagen synthesis and antioxidant protection

• Amino acids & coenzymes – the building blocks for skin regeneration

• Minerals & nucleic acids – to support metabolic activity and cellular repair

This multi-ingredient blend is designed to provide global rejuvenation—targeting hydration, texture, radiance, and firmness all at once.

What Does the Research Say?

A 2024 split-face study evaluated the topical use of NCTF® 135HA during microneedling with a 0.6 mm Micro-Needle device (Nanosoft™). This approach ensured that the serum was absorbed into the dermis without the need for conventional injection [1].

Results at a Glance:

• Wrinkle reduction: Significant improvements in the periorbital region and nasolabial folds compared to the control side

• Hydration: Noticeable increase in skin hydration on the NCTF-treated side by Day 42 (p = 0.04)

• Radiance: Enhanced skin glow by Day 75 and Day 120

• Comfort: Patients reported less pain and redness compared to microneedling with saline or plain hyaluronic acid

These findings suggest that NCTF® 135HA enhances both the experience and the results of microneedling—especially when used as a glide agent at appropriate needle depths.

What Patients Can Expect

Microneedling with NCTF® 135HA is:

• Suitable for all skin types (Fitzpatrick I–VI)

• Minimally invasive with low downtime—typically mild redness for 24–48 hours

• Comfortable, especially when using precision micro-needle delivery systems

• Visibly effective—most patients notice improved skin glow, texture, and hydration within 1–2 weeks

For optimal results, a course of 3–4 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart is often recommended, followed by maintenance every 3–6 months.

Final Thoughts

Microneedling is more than just a device—it’s a technique that can be fine-tuned and enhanced through careful product selection. By using NCTF® 135HA as a topical glide, we can offer a treatment that not only stimulates collagen but also floods the skin with nourishing, clinically validated ingredients—without needing to resort to injections.

If you're looking for a treatment that combines comfort, efficacy, and science-led care, this pairing might just be your perfect match.

References

1. Boca A, et al. (2024). Evaluation of the performance and safety of a new micro-needle technology compared with the classic needle on the anti-aging effects of a biorevitalizing solution. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.16318

2. Lima EVA, et al. (2022). Microneedling: Role in skin rejuvenation and use in aesthetic dermatology. Cosmetics, 9(2):51. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics9020051

3. Aust MC, et al. (2008). Percutaneous collagen induction therapy: An alternative treatment for scars, wrinkles, and skin laxity. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 121(4):1421–1429.

4. Fabbrocini G, et al. (2014). Skin needling to enhance transdermal delivery of cosmetic actives. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 39(4):486–488.

5. Fillmed Laboratories. NCTF® 135HA Product Information and Safety Data Sheet. (Accessed 2025)