Guide:
- How Does Microneedling Transform Skin?
- Microneedling for Acne Scars
- Microneedling for Acne
- Microneedling for Pitted Scars
- When Will I See My Results & How Long Do They Last?
How Does Microneedling Transform Skin?
The impact acne has on an individual’s self-esteem can decrease their quality of life. Some people are left with blemish-free skin once it clears up but for others, they have to wear the scars of their biggest insecurity on their faces for the rest of their lives when left untreated.
Microneedling for acne scars is one of the most popular medical spa treatments for patients of all ages and stages of life.
Before we get into the details of how microneedling can reduce the appearance of acne and acne scars, what is microneedling?
Using tiny needles, microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, carefully and precisely punctures the skin to stimulate the body’s natural healing response which kickstarts collagen production for healthier, clearer, younger-looking skin.
At HerSpace MedSpa, we often use the Lutronic Genius® radiofrequency (RF) microneedling device to get the best results possible. By adding the heat and power of radiofrequency energy to traditional microneedling, RF microneedling takes the collagen induction treatment to the next level. Radiofrequency energy speeds up your body’s ability to produce collagen and elastin, helping you achieve better results faster.
While RF microneedling can promote similar results to a laser treatment, it sets itself apart from lasers because it is safe for all skin types and warrants less downtime and side effects.
Microneedling is used to treat a variety of skin concerns. We’re typically using it to improve:
- Acne scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sunspots and other pigmentation issues
- Rosacea
- Enlarged pores
- Melasma
- Trauma or surgery scars
- Uneven skin texture and tone
- Loose, lax skin
- Stretch marks
Microneedling for Acne Scars
According to a study in the National Library of Medicine, patients saw serious improvements in atrophic acne scars after a few microneedling treatments. They also found a boost in collagen types I, III, and VII, and fresh collagen production.
The bottom line with microneedling for acne scars is that a few sessions can be a game-changer, much like hitting the reset button for your skin without any major risks or downtime like some other skin rejuvenation treatments may entail.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, microneedling may be your go-to if you have depressed acne scars (those that dip into your skin). The collagen boost it promotes makes it specifically helpful for depressed scars rather than raised scars as they already have excess collagen in the area.
We often recommend our patients add platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to each treatment of their microneedling for acne scars for speedy healing and better results.
Microneedling for acne scars is the safest skin corrective treatment for all skin types, from the lightest to the darkest tones because it is super gentle and precise, leaving no unnecessary damage to your outer layer of skin. Whether your skin is thin, thick, sensitive, or somewhere in between, microneedling has your back for those pesky acne scars.
Microneedling for Acne
While microneedling can be an effective, life-changing option for acne scars, it isn’t the superhero solution for active acne. Acne has bacteria within it, so using microneedling on acne-prone skin that is currently breaking out can spread that bacteria around.
Our typical rule of thumb is to clear up acne before beginning microneedling for any stubborn scars left behind. Medical-grade skin care products are a good start, but if your acne seems too severe for any cleansers or creams, oral medications like isotretinoin might be the best bet to fight it off.
Microneedling for Pitted Scars
Microneedling works wonders for certain types of scars, especially those that dip or pit into your skin, as mentioned above.
Microneedling particularly shines as a treatment for the following types of scars:
- Atrophic scars – Often referred to as pitted scars, these appear depressed or sunken and are caused by the lack of collagen production during healing. By promoting collagen production, microneedling can help build up lost tissue and reduce the appearance of these scars.
- Hypertrophic scars – which appear thick, raised, and are usually red. They occur when there is too much tension around a wound during its healing process.
- Rolling scars – appear as indents or waves in the skin and typically occur in individuals who have experienced long-term inflammatory acne. These become more noticeable as skin loses collagen and fullness, so microneedling’s collagen boost can be a huge help!
- Boxcar scars – appear wide and box-like with defined edges, often causing deep shadows in low light.
When Will I See My Results & How Long Do They Last?
You might feel slightly uncomfortable after your microneedling treatment. If you’re fair-skinned, you may have some redness. If you have a darker skin tone, you may appear slightly darker. Experience a feeling of being sunburnt, but any minor side effects such as burning, discomfort, or swelling usually fade within a few days to a week.
Your skin’s glow-up won’t happen overnight. After both traditional and RF microneedling for acne scars, it takes time for your body to kickstart that collagen production. Although you may start seeing some changes within a few weeks, it could take a few months for the full effect to be visible. Most patients with acne-related skin issues need several treatments for best results. Also, results don’t last forever. Most patients return yearly for maintenance treatments.
Check out this “wow”-worthy microneedling before and after photo of a patient who stayed consistent with skincare, microneedling, laser treatments, and facials:
After microneedling for acne scars, we send our patients home with detailed aftercare instructions. Some of the key tips for healing as quickly, safely and effectively as possible include:
- Protect your skin from the sun. Keep reapplying that SPF even if you’re not in direct sunlight and avoid sun exposure as much as possible while your skin is still healing.
- Don’t smoke.
- After your initial series of treatments, keep up with your yearly maintenance sessions to maintain results.
- Be sure to use any antibiotic creams we prescribe to avoid infections.
- You should not apply makeup to the treated areas for the first 24 hours.
- Avoid any activity that can cause excessive sweating. This means no running, gym sessions, swimming, or visiting a sauna for the first 72 hours post-treatment.
Ready to say goodbye to those pesky acne scars and hello to healthy, clear, radiant skin? Request a consultation with the skin professionals at HerSpace MedSpa to determine if microneedling for acne scars is right for you and develop a personalized treatment plan.