Skin Resurfacing · Microneedling

Microneedling: Using Controlled Micro-Injury to Trigger Your Skin's Own Repair

Microneedling doesn't add anything to your skin — it convinces your skin to rebuild itself. Here's how that actually works, and what it can realistically improve.

Reviewed by Dr. Sam Abaza. Diplomate, American Board of Physician Specialties

5 min read · 6 scientific references

1.5 million

Microneedling procedures performed in the U.S. in a recent year. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

400%

Increase in collagen and elastin production reported in clinical studies following a series of microneedling treatments. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery.

4–6

Typical number of sessions recommended for meaningful improvement in scarring or texture. American Academy of Dermatology.

24–48

Hours of visible redness after a standard treatment, similar to a mild sunburn. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling uses a device with fine, sterile needles to create hundreds of controlled micro-injuries in the skin's surface. Those tiny injuries trigger the body's natural wound-healing response, which includes ramped-up production of collagen and elastin — the proteins responsible for skin's structure and firmness. Unlike treatments that resurface skin by removing layers, microneedling works by stimulating the skin to rebuild itself from within, which is why results continue to improve for weeks after treatment as new collagen forms, rather than appearing all at once.

What Can a Chemical Peel Actually Treat?

Microneedling is commonly used for acne scarring, particularly rolling and boxcar-type scars, fine lines and early skin laxity, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and stretch marks. It's often combined with other treatments — platelet-rich plasma (PRP) applied during the procedure, sometimes called a "vampire facial," or topical serums applied immediately after treatment, since the micro-channels created temporarily improve product absorption. Results build cumulatively with a series of treatments rather than a single session, since collagen remodeling is a gradual biological process that continues over several weeks after each treatment.

Microneedling Approaches at a Glance

Are You a Good Candidate for Microneedling

Acne Scarring, Especially Rolling or Boxcar Type

Microneedling is among the most evidence-supported treatments for improving the appearance of these common acne scar types.

Enlarged Pores or Uneven Texture

Collagen remodeling from microneedling can meaningfully improve overall skin texture over a series of treatments.

Early Signs of Skin Laxity

Microneedling, particularly combined with radiofrequency, can support firmer-feeling skin as an early intervention.

Willing to Commit to a Series of Treatments

Good candidates understand that results build gradually over 4 to 6 sessions rather than appearing after one visit.

No Active Acne Breakout or Skin Infection

Active breakouts should clear before treatment, since microneedling over active acne can spread bacteria and worsen inflammation.

Not Currently on Certain Acne Medications

Patients on isotretinoin are typically advised to wait, since it affects skin healing; your provider will review your medication history.

What to Expect From Consultation to Results

Consultation to assess skin concerns and determine needle depth, technique, and whether PRP or radiofrequency should be added.
Topical numbing is applied before treatment, which typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the areas covered.
Redness and mild swelling, similar to a sunburn, are normal for 24 to 48 hours after standard treatment.
Sun protection is essential during healing, since skin is temporarily more sensitive to UV exposure.
Initial improvement in texture and glow is often visible within a week, with continued improvement over the following weeks as collagen rebuilds.
A series of 4 to 6 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, is typically recommended for meaningful, lasting results.

Safety and Aftercare

Microneedling is safe for most skin types, including darker skin tones, since it doesn't rely on heat or light-based energy the way some resurfacing lasers do, which meaningfully lowers the risk of pigment complications. That said, sterile technique and appropriate needle depth matter, since improper technique can increase risk of infection or scarring rather than reduce it. Aftercare includes avoiding sun exposure, harsh skincare actives, and makeup for at least 24 hours, along with gentle, fragrance-free skincare while the skin's surface heals. Patients with active skin infections, certain autoimmune conditions, or a history of keloid scarring should discuss candidacy carefully during consultation.

Common Questions About Microneedling

Does microneedling hurt? Topical numbing cream is applied before treatment, so most patients describe mild discomfort or pressure rather than significant pain during the procedure itself.

How many microneedling sessions do I need? Most treatment plans involve 4 to 6 sessions spaced about 4 weeks apart, since collagen remodeling is a gradual process that benefits from repeated stimulation over time.

Is microneedling safe for darker skin tones? Yes. Because microneedling doesn't rely on heat or light energy, it carries a lower risk of pigment-related complications than many laser treatments, making it a good option across skin tones.

What's the difference between microneedling and a chemical peel? Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production from within, while chemical peels chemically remove damaged outer skin layers. They address overlapping but distinct concerns and are sometimes combined.

Can microneedling help with acne scars specifically? Yes, microneedling is among the more evidence-supported treatments for rolling and boxcar-type acne scars, typically requiring a series of treatments for meaningful improvement.

What is microneedling with PRP? PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is derived from a small sample of your own blood and applied during microneedling to potentially enhance the skin's regenerative response, sometimes referred to informally as a "vampire facial."

Sources cited on this page

American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Microneedling procedure statistics.
Singh A, Yadav S. Microneedling: advances and widening horizons. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery.
American Academy of Dermatology. Microneedling: what to expect and treatment planning.
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Microneedling recovery and downtime.
American Academy of Dermatology. Microneedling safety across skin types.
Mayo Clinic. Microneedling: what you can expect.

This page is for general educational purposes and does not replace an in-person medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations depend on an in-person consultation and your specific skin type and goals. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Abaza to discuss your specific case.

BOTTOM LINE

Your Skin Doing the Rebuilding, Not Just a Product Sitting on Top

Microneedling works with your body's own repair process rather than masking a concern temporarily. Dr. Abaza offers microneedling, including PRP and radiofrequency options, at both our Diamond Bar and Harbor locations.