Have you tried serums, treatments, creams, and DIY facemasks to no avail? Have you searched the internet for options? You are not alone. If you have done any research, you have probably seen some example pictures of before-and-after. You have seen the dramatic differences between the two sets of pictures. “Too good to be true”, you may think. But we are here to tell you that it is TRUE. Microneedling can help reduce deep pockmarks and acne scars.
Can Microneedling Help Acne Scars?
The short answer is YES. The longer answer is it will most likely take several treatments. Apart from acne scars, it is also effective for age spots, wrinkles, and stretch marks.
How Are Acne Scars Treated By Microneedling?
A medical professional will use a special microneedling instrument made up of a series of tiny stainless steel needles that gently create small microscopic punctures on the outer layers of the skin. This signals to your skin that there is a ‘wound’ and it goes into “healing mode’. It starts producing elastin and collagen in the affected area to repair the damage.
Scars, wrinkles, and fine lines will be smoothed over as a result of the additional collagen production.
What Can I Expect From Microneedling?
First and foremost, smoother, healthier-looking skin. Normally patients who have pockmarks or deep scars see a drastic difference in only 3 treatments. The new collagen production results in brighter, firmer, and smoother skin. Patients who do not have significant scarring will also see amazing results from microneedling.
How Many Microneedling Treatments Will I Need?
To achieve optimal results, it is recommended a patient have three to four treatments spaced out anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. Then a follow-up treatment every year after that.
What are the Side Effects of Microneedling?
The side effects of microneedling are minimal compared to other treatments that reduce or diminish scars. A numbing cream will be applied to your skin before your treatment but you may experience very slight discomfort during the process.
Most people will have slight or no side effects but some may experience redness, slight bruising, or inflammation after microneedling. It is recommended that you drink a lot of water and avoid excess sun exposure immediately after microneedling treatments to lessen any side effects.
What About At-Home Microneedling?
In recent years, there have been a few “dermarolling” options marketed to the public. They have been reviewed by bloggers and influencers who have probably spoken highly of them and perhaps these individuals did see some results with their ‘at-home” dermaroller.
However, the results of a professional microneedle treatment performed by a skilled medical specialist will be far superior to any “at-home” solution. One reason for this is because the professional treatment is not only getting the top layer of skin but the top layers. Thus the reason for the numbing cream.
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Also, there are a few things to be concerned about if you are thinking of attempting this yourself. Are you sure you are going to perform the procedure correctly? You may do more damage than good to your skin. How are you ensuring your tool is sanitary and sterilized so that you are not introducing bacteria into your skin?
It is always imperative to speak with your doctor to determine if a treatment is a good fit for you. If you easily scar, have eczema, rosacea, or are pregnant, microneedling may not be the best option for you. Please, do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you have about Microneedling. We are here for you.
Angelina Postoev, MD, FACS, a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon, and Christopher Ibikunle, MD, FACS, offer microneedling to men and women in Lawrenceville, Suwanee, Johns Creek, Buckhead, and other surrounding areas of Atlanta, Georgia.
