Does microneedling remove acne scars?

Yes, microneedling helps smooth skin and reduce the appearance of acne . Why does it work? Here's what you need to know, in complete transparency!

If you've ever looked for a way to get rid of your acne scars, you 've probably heard of microneedling. But is it really effective against acne scars? What types of scars can it treat? What are the before/after results? And if you still have active acne, is it a good idea to get it done? We'll answer them point by point.

First, what is microneedling and how does it work?

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a treatment that involves creating tiny micro-punctures in the first layers of the skin using a device equipped with fine needles.

This can be a dermaroller , a small roller covered with micro-needles that is rolled over the surface of the skin (most often used at home), or a dermapen , a virbiferous pen that pricks the skin in a very controlled manner (used in beauty institutes and clinics).

How does microneedling work?

By creating these tiny wounds on the skin, the body triggers a natural healing response, helping the epidermis repair itself. This triggers the production of new, healthier skin cells, as well as collagen and elastin.

A microneedling session can last approximately 30 minutes.

In which cases is microneedling recommended?

• Acne scars, traumatic and post-operative scars.

• Wrinkles and fine lines, sagging skin.

• Enlarged pores and pigment spots.

Is microneedling effective for acne scars?

Yes, microneedling can reduce acne scars by 50 to 70% in just a few sessions . It stimulates the production of new skin cells, as well as the synthesis of collagen and elastin by creating micro-perforations, which helps to rebuild areas marked by acne scars , especially atrophic (depressed) scars, to unify and smooth the texture of the skin.

Microneedling improves not only recent scars, but also old acne scars (over 5 years old).

What types of acne scars can microneedling treat?

Here are the types of acne scars that microneedling best treats:

• Ice pick scars : These are very deep, narrow, V-shaped pitted scars, often caused by severe cystic acne. Their treatment requires multiple microneedling sessions, often combined with other techniques such as PRP or radiofrequency.

• Boxcar acne scars : These are wide, shallow, dented scars on the skin, often caused by inflammatory acne (red, inflamed, poorly treated or manipulated papules and pustules). Microneedling helps to reduce these after about 3 to 4 sessions.

• Rolled acne scars : These are wide, shallow, indented scars that give the skin an uneven, wavy appearance. They are often caused by chronic, inflammatory acne, often hormonal, and are common in the lower areas of the face. Microneedling works very well, especially when combined with PRP.

• Post-inflammatory spots : These appear as visible red, brown, or purplish marks after a pimple has disappeared, especially if it is scratched or poorly treated. They are very common in people with olive to dark skin. In this case, microneedling offers results from the second session. It evens out skin tone and fades pigmentation.

Microneedling is ineffective on hypertrophic or keloid scars.

To summarize :

Microneedling is effective on atrophic (hollow) scars characterized by loss of skin tissue, particularly ice pick and boxcar scars, but also on pigmented or post-inflammatory scars .

Its ability to naturally stimulate skin regeneration and collagen production helps to gradually fill in hollows and fade spots caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

How many sessions does it take to see an improvement?

The average number of microneedling sessions required is 2 to 6 sessions . It all depends on the type of scar (ice pick, boxcar, rolling, pigmented spots), the depth of the scars, the type of acne that caused them (cystic, hormonal, inflammatory), as well as your skin's reaction to the induced regeneration.

For example :

• For ice pick scars: more than 4 sessions are recommended.

• For boxcar scars: it is recommended to have 4 to 6 sessions with visible results from the 4th session.

• For rolling scars: 3 to 5 sessions are recommended.

• For post-inflammatory scars: 2 to 3 sessions are recommended, as results are generally rapid.

Before/after results of microneedling on acne scars

Here is a clear idea of ​​the transformations observed before/after microneedling:

At the level of the scars

• Before: marked and deep scars.
  

• After: scars less visible even in natural light.
  
  

At the level of skin texture

• Before: Rough skin, thickened by scars.

• After: smoother skin, refined texture and more comfortable to the touch.

At the level of the complexion

• Before: dull complexion, brown or red spots after acne.
  

• After: more even complexion, faded marks thanks to cell renewal.

Before and After Tips for Microneedling for Acne Scars

For best results and to limit side effects, it is essential to prepare well before the session and to follow a suitable routine afterwards.

Before your microneedling treatment: 1 week before the session

• Stop using irritating skincare products 3 to 5 days before the session, including retinoids, AHA/BHA, high concentration vitamin C.

• Moisturize the skin with a moisturizer rich in ceramides or hyaluronic acid to prepare the skin for micro-perforation and accelerate healing.

• Avoid exposure to the sun or artificial UV rays one week before the session to limit the risk of hyperpigmentation.

After your microneedling treatment: 24 to 72 hours after the session

• Intensely moisturize with a hyaluronic acid serum to heal quickly.

• Avoid sun exposure for at least 7 to 10 days and apply sunscreen (SPF 50).

• Do not use exfoliants or acids for 5 to 7 days following the session.

• Sleep on a clean pillowcase and avoid touching your face to limit the risk of infection.

• Use peptide serums to boost collagen.

Book a free consultation at sssKin!

Our microneedling experts welcome you to Geneva for a free consultation. We'll assess your skin and answer all your questions!

You don't have to live with your acne scars.

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FAQ - Microneedling and Acne Scars

Do the scars disappear completely?

Microneedling can reduce the appearance of acne scars by up to 70% depending on their type, depth, and frequency of treatment.

What products should I use after microneedling to boost results on scars?

Here are the most effective post-microneedling ingredients: Hyaluronic acid to hydrate and soothe, Centella asiatica to boost skin regeneration, Peptides to stimulate collagen and improve the appearance of scars, Vitamin C to even out skin tone and reduce pigmented scars.

Does microneedling hurt?

Aside from some discomfort and slight tingling, microneedling is not painful. Before the session, a numbing cream is usually applied to reduce any discomfort. After the session, the skin may feel warm and tight for 24 to 48 hours.

How much does a session cost?

A microneedling session at ssskin starts at CHF 280.

Can you do microneedling if you still have active acne?

No. Active acne should be treated early, as microneedling can worsen inflammatory lesions, spread bacteria, and cause additional scarring. Therefore, once active acne has been stabilized with appropriate treatment, you can consider microneedling.

How long between two sessions?

It is recommended to wait 4 to 6 weeks between each session, to give the skin time to regenerate. A typical protocol therefore lasts 3 to 6 months, sometimes longer for deep scars.

Is it suitable for dark skin?

Yes, microneedling is one of the few safe treatments for dark to medium skin tones, with no risk of depigmentation.