As if acne isn’t frustrating enough, sometimes you might have to deal with scars that pimples can leave behind. Acne scars can develop from cystic acne or from picking at your skin. Like other types of scars, those from acne can last for several months or even years. If you’ve tried over-the-counter products to no avail, you might consider microneedling to get rid of your acne scars. Also called skin needling or dermarolling, this procedure is done by a dermatologist or skin care specialist to treat a variety of skin care concerns, including scars and wrinkles. It may also help with acne scars and clinical studies have shown overall positive results.
Curious about microneedling for acne scars? Read on to learn more about the procedure and how to discuss the effectiveness and potential side effects with a dermatologist.
Effectiveness of microneedling for acne scars
As the name suggests, microneedling uses fine needles that prick your skin. During the skin-pricking process, your skin produces more collagen in an effort to heal the small wounds from the needles.
The theory is that new collagen that’s formed will help smooth out your skin’s appearance, helping to fill in fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. To that end, skin needling may be used for:
- burn scars
- acne scars
- surgical scars
- melasma
- sun damage
- stretch marks
- sagging skin
- large pores
- hair loss
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, microneedling works best for depressed — not raised — acne scars. This has to do with the collagen-inducing effects. If you have raised acne scars, you already have excess collagen in the area.
Some studies have also noted that the effects of skin needling on acne scars are even better when the treatments are combined with vitamin C or PRP.
Unlike other minimally invasive skin corrective treatments, such as laser therapy, microneedling is considered safe for darker skin tones. This is because it doesn’t damage or remove the outer layer of skin. Microneedling is also considered safe for thin and sensitive skin as well.
Side effects of microneedling for acne scars
Initially, minor side effects are to be expected from this procedure. These include redness, bruising, and inflammation. However, these should clear up within a few days.
During the first few days after your microneedling procedure, you’ll want to avoid direct sun exposure and rigorous exercise. Exfoliants and alcohol-based skin products can also make side effects worse, so you should avoid these.
It’s also possible to experience acne breakouts after skin needling. However, these should be mild and clear up on their own. Avoid picking at your skin, as this can lead to further scarring.
The severity of microneedling side effects also depends on how you prepare for the procedure. Tanning or direct sun exposure can irritate your skin, making inflammation worse. Drinking plenty of water the day before and during the hours leading up your treatment can also reduce the chances of bruising and inflammation. You’ll also want to come to your appointment without any makeup on.
Unlike more invasive skin therapies, microneedling is considered quick. Many people choose to go back to work the day after their treatment, depending on their side effects. You can apply a lightweight powder if you want to camouflage any bruises or redness.
Your dermatologist may not recommend microneedling for your acne scars if you’re currently experiencing an acne breakout. It’s also not recommended if you have rosacea or eczema, as the procedure can worsen your symptoms.
You’ll want to talk to a doctor if you scar easily, as microneedling could potentially create more scars on top of the ones caused by acne. Finally, you shouldn’t get this treatment if you’re pregnant or have recently had skin radiation therapies.
Cost of microneedling for acne scars
Despite the fact that dermatologists perform microneedling, this procedure isn’t usually covered by insurance. This is because it’s considered an aesthetic treatment, and not medically necessary.
The exact amount you’ll pay for microneedling depends on your provider and your location. Dermapen estimates that the average microneedling session is about $300. If you need multiple treatments, you can expect to pay around this amount each time. At-home dermaroller kits can cost about $100, but you won’t see the same results.
According to DermNet NZ, moderate acne scars require three to four treatments. You might need an additional procedure or two for more severe scarring. Also, most people need to wait six weeks between treatments in order to allow new collagen to fully form.
The out-of-pocket costs of microneedling can get expensive pretty quickly, so it’s important to ask your provider about ways you can save money. Some offices offer membership discounts where you pay a certain amount of money per month and save over the course of a year. You might also ask about payment plans and financing. Be on the lookout for possible manufacturer rebates — these work similar to coupons.
Even though microneedling is an aesthetic procedure not covered by medical insurance, the overall costs are far less than surgery.
Before and after
A dermatologist can show you a portfolio of their microneedling work. It may take up to one year to see full results.
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Takeaway
Acne scars can improve on their own over time. However, they’re still permanent unless treatment measures are taken. Some anti-aging serums and creams can go a long way in improving scars on your face, but they may not get rid of them completely. Plus, the effects wear off once you stop using the products.
A dermatologist can determine whether microneedling should be your next step. Before settling on microneedling, weigh all your options to determine the safest and most affordable approach while also getting the results you’re looking for.
Microneedling is a type of cosmetic treatment that addresses various effects of aging. It’s also nicknamed skin needling because of its effects on increasing collagen production in the skin.
It involves the use of a skin roller with small needles that cause minor skin injuries.
While used as an anti-aging skin treatment, microneedling may also be a method of treatment for hair loss. There’s even evidence that it can help hereditary hair loss, also known as alopecia.
The same process of creating wounds in the skin is also thought to regenerate the health of the hair follicles. It’s thought that this can result in new hair growth, or perhaps thicken thinning hair.
Microneedling for hair loss benefits
Microneedling first gained its reputation as a scar treatment during the 1990s. Since then, it’s been studied as a potential alternative for thinning hair and hereditary hair loss.
Aside from collagen production in the skin, it’s thought that microneedling can also help induce stem cellsTrusted Source in the scalp that lead to hair growth.
Microneedling may also promote the absorption of hair growth products, such as minoxidil (Rogaine). Another studyTrusted Source explored the potential benefits of microneedling when used with corticosteroids to reduce hair follicle inflammation from alopecia areata.
How it works
During microneedling, your doctor uses several needles, ranging between 0.25 and 3 millimeters long. They’re all contained in a handheld device. Also called a roller, the device is rolled along the treatment area, creating small injuries.
Unlike other treatments that target your skin’s surface, the needles used in the rollers extend to the middle layer of skin. As these microinjuries heal, your skin produces more collagen and fibers. It also helps to strengthen the hair follicles.
A doctor will apply a topical anesthetic to your scalp about 45 minutes prior to treatment. This helps to reduce any pain you may feel.
The actual procedure time can vary based on treatment area, but may take as little as 30 minutes. After the scalp microneedling is completed, the doctor may apply a soothing balm or serum to the area to alleviate inflammation and discomfort.
Side effects of microneedling on the head
Microneedling itself can cause bruises, oozing from the wounds, and skin irritation. There’s also a risk that the wounds caused by the needles may scar.
The area may be red and inflamed for a few days following the procedure. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), most side effects diminish within five days after your treatment.
Speak with your doctor before you consider this treatment if you:
- have a history of acne, eczema, or open wounds
- have a condition that slows healing, such as diabetes
- are on blood thinners or other medications
Microneedling also isn’t recommended for people who are pregnant.
Using microneedling before minoxidil can increase the absorption of the treatment. However, this can also increase the risk of side effects from the minoxidil, such as:
- burning
- itching
- inflammation
Your scalp may be more sensitive to the sun after treatment. Wearing sunscreen every day is recommended. A hat can also help protect your scalp when outdoors.
Another risk of microneedling on your head is the possibility of infection. While the needles are small, they’re still inflicting wounds.
You’ll need to follow your aftercare instructions carefully to prevent infection. This often involves keeping the area clean for a few days, as well as using antiseptics to ward off bacteria.
You may be at an increased risk for infection if you’re in poor overall health, or if you have a history of frequent infections.
Dermaroller at-home treatment
To offset costs and time commitments, some people choose to purchase dermarollers to self-administer microneedling treatments at home.
According to one company, Dermapen, at-home sessions can cost as little as a third of getting microneedling done from a professional.
There are certainly some downsides to at-home dermaroller treatments though. These include:
- not knowing the right size needles to use to get the most out of your treatment
- it’s hard to see certain parts of your own scalp, such as the back of your head
- not being able to target the desired areas as well as a professionalt
These factors can make your treatment less effective compared with seeing a practitioner.
A licensed microneedling practitioner will also know how to help you minimize side effects from treatment. It can be difficult to assess risks and treat any complications on your own — you could end up seeing a doctor anyway if you do develop any side effects.
While it’s tempting to buy your own dermaroller, it’s much safer to leave these devices in the hands of a licensed and experienced professional for your hair loss treatment.
Microneedling for hair loss cost
Out-of-pocket costs for microneedling can range between an estimated $200 and $700 per session. The bigger the treatment area, the more expensive each session will be.
You could end up spending over $4,000 since up to six sessions may be needed. The AAD says that these sessions are usually spaced two to six weeks between treatments.
Microneedling generally isn’t covered by medical insurance because it’s considered a cosmetic treatment. However, your insurance might cover some of the costs if you’re getting the procedure done for medical purposes.
Choosing a practitioner
Microneedling procedures are performed by licensed professionals who specialize in skin care. These may include dermatologists, aestheticians, and cosmetic surgeons.
Microneedling isn’t a surgical procedure, so there generally aren’t as many risks involved. However, you’ll still want to find an experienced and trained professional to reduce possible complications, such as scarring.
Once you’ve found a few prospective providers, request a consultation with each one. You can then get a better sense of their experience, as well as the projected costs of treatment.
A reputable microneedling provider will show you a portfolio of their work.
Takeaway
It can take up to nine months for microneedling to reveal its effects on the skin. Some studiesTrusted Source have noted minor changes within three months of treatment, and more full effects after six months.
The exact timeline will vary, but you should see gradual changes in hair growth.
Microneedling may be a promising hair loss treatment. Talk with your doctor about all your hair growth options.
FAQ
Yes, microneedling really helps acne scars. The process promotes the growth of new collagen in your skin, encouraging your skin to heal itself, reducing the appearance of ice pick, boxcar, and rolling acne scars.
Therefore, we need to use an average of 0.75-1.5mm needle length to reach the epidermis and achieve a positive response to the treatment. However, if we are treating acne scarring or thicker, oily-prone skin, we may need to use a needle depth of 1.5mm and sometimes even 2mm to achieve optimum results (Figure 1).
Injections of corticosteroids may help with the treatment of raised acne scar tissue if a person has either hypertrophic or keloid scars. The treatment typically consists of a series of injections. A dermatologist can do these injections in their office once every few weeks, monitoring the results.
