Acne scars often remain long after blemishes heal, causing uneven skin texture, pitting, or discoloration. The good news is that microneedling, a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure is an effective treatment used to treat acne scars. Microneedling uses the skin’s natural healing process to promote collagen and elastin production, and smooth scarred areas to help with overall skin texture. This guide covers everything you need to know about microneedling for acne scars and how the treatment works.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, uses a specialized device equipped with very fine, sterile needles that create thousands of tiny, controlled micro-injuries in the top layer of the skin. While it may seem counterintuitive to create tiny injuries to improve your skin’s texture, this is actually what is key to making microneedling so successful for treating acne scars.

How Does Microneedling Help With Acne Scars?

Acne scars form because the skin's healing process is disrupted after a breakout. This inflammation can damage the collagen fibers in the dermis causing scarring. Microneedling helps with acne scars to rebuild your skin’s support structure by:

• Breaking Down Scar Tissue⎯By creating micro-injuries, the fine needles break down scar tissue that pulls down the skin so it can regenerate healthier tissue.
• Stimulating New Collagen⎯These micro-injuries signal to your body that it needs to create fresh collagen and elastin. As new collagen develops, it helps fill in depressions and to remodel scarred skin.
• Improving Texture and Tone⎯As the new skin cells are generated and collagen levels increase, the overall texture of your skin becomes smoother. This process also helps to even out skin tone and reduce any post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation often related to acne.

What to Expect During the Microneedling Treatment

1. Consultation

At NM Aesthetics, we’ll assess your skin and discuss your goals for microneedling.

2. Cleansing and Numbing

On the day of the treatment, a topical numbing cream will be applied for about 20-30 minutes to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible during the treatment. After the numbing cream is removed, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed and prepped for treatment. 

3. The Microneedling Treatment

 The treatment itself is typically very quick! Skinpen takes about 15-20 minutes, whereas RF takes 20-30. Some areas may be sensitive during treatment but the overall discomfort is incredibly minimal due to your skin being numb.

4. Post-Treatment Care

After the treatment is complete, we’ll apply a calming sheet mask to the skin for about 5-10 minutes and send you home with aftercare instructions to follow.

What is the Aftercare for Microneedling?

Taking good care of your skin after treatment is crucial for healing and getting the best results.

• For the first 48 hours you will only use a gentle cleanser, hyaluronic acid (or provided aftercare), and sunscreen. 
• Stay Out Of The Sun⎯Your skin will be highly sensitive to the sun after treatment. Avoid direct sun exposure and wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. You should wear sunscreen everyday to prevent sun damage and hyperpigmentation. Shop our full line of SPFs.
• Avoid Makeup and Sweating⎯Don’t wear makeup for at least 48 hours after your microneedling treatment. Also, avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, and swimming pools that could cause sweating and introduce bacteria to your skin.
• Stay Hydrated⎯Drink plenty of water and use hydrating serums like hyaluronic acid to support your skin's healing process.

Microneedling Treatment at NM Aesthetics in the DMV Area

Our providers are here to help you achieve your skincare goals. If you’re ready to book a microneedling consultation or have any questions, fill out our form online or call us at (571) 310-3223.

Microneedling FAQs

Who should avoid microneedling treatment?

If you have skin infections, open sores, a history of keloid scarring, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis in the treatment area, you should contact us to discuss your skin concerns.

Does microneedling hurt?

Most people describe it as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. A numbing cream helps ease discomfort.

How many sessions will I need?

How many sessions you need depends on your skin. A common treatment plan is a series of 3–6 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart.

Is there downtime?

You may experience redness, mild swelling, or sensitivity for 24–72 hours. Most people return to normal activities within a day or two.

When will I see results?

You may notice smoother skin within a couple of weeks, but full results usually appear after several months, with continued improvement after each session.

Will microneedling make scars completely disappear?

Microneedling can significantly improve the appearance of scars and skin texture, but results vary. Most people notice softening and smoothing rather than complete scar removal.