Why You Should Consider Microneedling: Benefits, Myths, and What to Anticipate
In the ever-evolving domain of skincare, microneedling has come up as one of the most productive, non-invasive treatments to rejuvenate the skin and treat signs of aging. If you are looking for a way to improve your skin complexion, smooth out acne scars, and restore that youthful appearance without going under the knife, microneedling treatment may be exactly what you need.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is an advanced cosmetic procedure. Trained healthcare professionals prick the skin with tiny, sterilized needles. This technique encourages the production of collagen and elastin, which heals the skin and helps a person look younger. Microneedling can also remove the appearance of wrinkles, acne, and scars. This procedure is also referred to as collagen induction therapy.
Reasons You Should Choose Microneedling
Removes Hyperpigmentation and Acne Scars
If you struggle with uneven pigmentation, sun spots, or acne scars, microneedling for hyperpigmentation can help remove discoloration and stimulate clearer, healthier skin. It is particularly useful for the treatment of atrophic (depressed) scars and
post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Microneedling for Acne Scars
2. Reduces Wrinkles and Fine Lines
By boosting the production of collagen, microneedling plumps the skin from within in a natural way. This helps reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles, crow’s feet, and fine lines, hence making microneedling for stretch marks an effective anti-aging treatment.
3. Improves Skin Texture and Tone
Whether you are suffering from enlarged pores, dullness, or rough patches, microneedling skin tightening can refine skin surface and improve its tone. This process stimulates fresh skin cell turnover, leaving the skin looking smoother and radiant.
4. Increases Product Absorption
The micro-channels produced during the treatment allow the skincare products to penetrate deep into the skin. This makes your favorite moisturizers and serums more effective post-treatment.
5. Least Invasive with Minimal Downtime
When compared with intensive cosmetic procedures, such as chemical peels or laser resurfacing, microneedling for scars or any other cosmetic problem offers productive results with little to no downtime. You may experience slight sensitivity and mild redness for 24 to 48 hours, but you will quickly return to your normal activities.
Overcoming Common Microneedling Misconceptions
Misconception 1: It is Painful
Truth: Though the thought of needles may sound scary, most people experience minimum discomfort. Usually, a topical numbing cream is applied before the procedure.
Misconception 2: It’s Only Done for the Face
Truth: Microneedling can be used on many areas of the human body, such as hands, chest, neck, and scalp.
Microneedling for Face
Misconception 3: It’s not Recommended for Dark Skin
Truth: Microneedling is a useful option for everyone, as it's safe for all skin tones. Unlike lasers, which can risk hyperpigmentation in darker skin, microneedling offers an effective alternative.
Misconception 4: Results are Immediate
Truth: While you may notice an instant glow post-treatment, remember that the real result—the collagen production—takes a bit of time to shine through. Most people experience productive results after the completion of 3 to 5 sessions spaced about four to five weeks apart.
What to Expect During and After Microneedling Procedure
Before
Arrive with makeup-free, clean skin
Avoid strong retinoids, exfoliants or sun exposure for 24 to 48 hours
During
The whole procedure usually lasts 30-60 minutes
The microneedling device is moved gently across the treatment area.
Numbing cream is applied during the procedure to reduce discomfort
After
Avoid direct sun exposure, heavy exercise, and facial makeup for 24-48 hours.
You might experience mild swelling, tightness, and redness for a day or two.
Follow a gentle skincare regimen and hydrating products.
Professional Microneedling vs At-Home Microneedling
Depth of Treatment
Professional:
The lengths of the needles range from 0.5mm to 2.5mm
Uses medical-grade devices, such as SkinPen or Dermapen
It can penetrate deep into the dermis to target stretch marks, wrinkles, and scars
At-Home:
Best for improving skin texture and product absorption, not for treating wrinkles or deep scars
Remains in the superficial layers of the skin
Uses manual dermarollers or pens with needles 0.25mm to 0.5mm
2. Results and Effectiveness
Professional:
Suitable, long-lasting results
Often combined with other treatments (serums, growth factors, PRP)
Can handle complex skin concerns: deeper lines, hyperpigmentation, acne scars
At-Home:
It provides mild improvements in skin texture and tone
Not productive for deep skin problems
Results are gradual and need long-term, consistent use
Microneedling with PRP
3. Safety and Sanitation
Professional:
Low risk of scarring, infection, or improper technique
The equipment is medical-grade and properly sanitized
Executed by licensed and trained professionals in a clean and hygienic environment
At-Home:
Improper use, such as using dull needles or applying too much pressure, can lead to infection, pigmentation issues or skin damage
There is a high risk of contamination if not sanitized properly
4. Pain and Downtime
Professional:
Short recovery time with visible improvement after a few sessions
Mild swelling and redness for 24-48 hours
Topical anesthetic applied to decrease discomfort
At-Home:
Usually, no numbing cream is used
No real downtime
Moderate redness or tingling after the treatment
