What You Need to Know About Microneedling for Acne

Acne can harm one’s self-esteem and leave deep scarring in the skin that can be permanent. Luckily, a procedure called microneedling can help by boosting the skin’s natural healing process and breaking up deep acne scar tissue. Microneedling can improve skin texture and appearance, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the appearance of acne scarring. Because it utilizes the body’s natural healing process, it is considered a safe and effective procedure. For more information, here is everything you need to know about microneedling for acne: 

How Does Microneedling for Acne and Acne Scars Work?

During a microneedling procedure, a handheld tool with many small needles is used to cause micro-injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries kickstart the body’s healing process, which encourages new collagen and elastin production. Collagen is responsible for skin elasticity and plumpness, while elastin helps prevent wrinkles and sagging. After microneedling stimulates increased production of these proteins in the treatment areas, they work together to reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks, uneven skin tone, and more. Microneedling utilizes the body’s own natural healing abilities to repair skin damage.   

Does Microneedling Hurt?

Before the procedure, a topical anesthetic or numbing cream is applied to the skin, so minimal pain is felt during microneedling. However, discomfort is common and your skin may feel tight, similar to the sensation of a mild sunburn. Drinking plenty of water before and after the procedure can help reduce inflammation and swelling.

Benefits of Microneedling for Acne and Acne Scars

Microneedling provides a host of benefits for the skin, but it is especially effective for treating acne and acne scars. The collagen produced following this procedure helps plump and “fill in” depressed acne scars to make them less noticeable. The microneedle punctures actually help break up the scar tissue to make it easier for the collagen to work. Additionally, the micro-channels created by the needle allow acne medications to penetrate the skin more deeply to improve results. The procedure also minimizes large pores and blackheads.

Microneedling Recovery Time

Depending on the severity of skin damage or trauma, it can take three to eight sessions to maximize your results. Acne scar tissue typically requires six to eight sessions to improve considerably. However, you may notice more vibrancy and radiancy in your skin as soon as the next day after treatment. 

For 72 hours after microneedling for acne, you should avoid swimming, excessive sun exposure, and other skin irritants. Peeling or flaking may occur three to five days after treatment due to increased skin cell turnover. For one to three days, your skin may have a warmness, tightness, and redness similar to that of a mild sunburn. Usually, swelling and redness fades significantly within the first day.

Want to Learn More?

If you are interested in getting microneedling for acne, then contacting the experts at The Institute of Natural Health can help. Microneedling can target problem areas on the face, neck, and chest and has a very fast recovery time. In addition to microneedling, our team also provides medspa services such as Dermaplane, peels, and HydraFacial procedures. Please reach out for more information today!