Microneedling for Treating Scars: Everything You Need To Know About Microneedling

Published August 26, 2023

Scars are a normal part of the body’s healing process. They manifest when the skin repairs itself from a wound. These scrapes and marks form as a result of different circumstances. They also differ significantly in their appearance. You can get scars from skin conditions such as acne. You can also acquire some from surgery, accident, and injury. 

While scars are natural and normal, some people find them unattractive. They can impact one’s confidence and self-esteem. Thankfully, microneedling is an excellent procedure for healing and improving the appearance of scars. 

It’s always valid to want to improve our skin insecurities. This article discusses everything you need to know about microneedling on scars. What is it, how it’s beneficial for scars, how it works, aftercare, and more? Let’s waste no more time and begin. 

What Is Microneedling? 

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin care procedure. It is used to treat skin dilemmas by stimulating collagen production. It is known as collagen induction therapy. This treatment creates micro-puncture in the skin using tiny, sterilized needles. 

The American Academy of Dermatology Association supports microneedling. According to the organization, it is excellent in lessening the appearance of scars and dark spots. It is also great for improving skin elasticity. 

A 2021 review also suggests microneedling may promote hair growth. It is in people with alopecia. Still, more research is needed. 

Most people get microneedling on their faces. But you can also get it on your legs, back and neck, and other areas where you notice damaged or aging skin.

Microneedling on Scars

Micro Needling works wonders on any type of scar. Whether you have acne scarring, post-surgery scars, or scars from an accident. This treatment could dramatically reduce their appearance. Microneedling for scars is a safe, fast, effective, and efficient way to improve their looks. It renders impressive results in most cases. It can also deliver skin progress in a short time. 

Microneedling contains a micro pen that features adjustable needles. These penetrate the dermis at a controlled depth. As the flexible needles penetrate the dermis, microchannels start to form. The formation of microchannels causes the activation of growth factor release. Afterward, stimulation of collagen production will take place. This new collagen is then deposited. It will help better the appearance of scars as it restructures and restores the skin. As a result, spots will have less defined edges. They will have a softened, smooth texture.

Benefits of Microneedling

Microneedling has become an increasingly famous skin procedure because of its incredible benefits. It is said to revitalize and plump the skin effectively. Furthermore, it is with minimal discomfort and minimal downtime. This treatment can be adjusted to fit each person’s needs. 

Here are the benefits of microneedling: 

• Reducing the appearance of any type of scars. 
• Lessening the presence of fine lines and wrinkles 
• Improving enlarged pores 
• Improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation 
• Smoothens uneven skin tone 
• Increase skin elasticity 
• Treat stretch marks 
• Promoting hair growth for those struggling with alopecia 

Microneedling is also less expensive than laser therapy. It may also work better for some people. Laser treatments work by using heat, which can affect your skin’s pigmentation. 

People with darker skin tones may also prefer microneedling to laser therapy. It is due to safety concerns related to certain types of laser treatment of varying complexion. 

Who Can Get Microneedling: Ideal Candidates for Microneedling

You are an ideal candidate for a microneedling if you are concerned about the following: 

• Any type of scarring 
• Enlarged pores 
• Fine lines or wrinkles 
• Loose or crepey skin 
• Skin discoloration or uneven skin tones
• Stretch marks 

This Beauty treatment may also help people who have medical conditions such as: 

• Alopecia areata. Hair loss because of an autoimmune disease. 
• Hyperhidrosis. Extreme sweating. 

How Does Microneedling Work?

Preparation 

Before microneedling, you will talk to your doctor. It is about ways to prepare for your appointment. You may need to stop taking certain medications in advance of the procedure. These medications are usually ibuprofen or Accutane for acne treatment in advance. 

You will also stop using agents that may increase your skin’s sensitivity. It includes topical retinoids and exfoliants before your microneedling session. 

Your doctor will lay a topical anesthetic on the treatment area an hour before the procedure. It will numb the skin during your microneedling process.

During the procedure 

As microneedling begins, your skincare provider will do tiny pricks under the skin. It uses a pen-like device with small, sterilized needles. The pinpricks are so minuscule. You are likely not to notice them after the procedure. 

Your provider will move the tool across your skin. It is so that rejuvenated skin will be even, too. You may feel warmth or a scratching sensation on your face or other body parts you are planning to treat. Some people may feel discomfort if the needles are near bony areas. Yet, it is very minimal and tolerable. 

Microneedling generally lasts for 30 minutes. 

After

After the session, your doctor will apply a growth serum or calming treatment. In total, a microneedling session lasts for 2 hours. It is an outpatient treatment. You can go home as soon as it’s done. Your skin might be red and puffy for up to five days. An ice pack can assist in cutting down irritation and discomfort. 

Aftercare for Microneedling

After receiving your microneedling treatment, you are encouraged to do an aftercare. Taking care of your skin correctly following this treatment is vital for optimal results and improvement. 

1. Cleanse gently. Gently wash your face daily with a gentle cleanser. It will soothe the area where you get microneedling and lessen inflammation.
2. Apply a moisturizer. Use a lightweight moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and accelerate healing. You Can also opt for applying hyaluronic acid serum on the treated areas. 
3. Avoid sun exposure. Sun exposure can also further irritation and inflammation following a microneedling procedure. Adding a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or more on the affected areas is crucial. 
4. Use calming masks. Aloe vera or rosewater mask can help soothe your skin. 
5. Minimize harsh products. Do not use exfoliating treatments and harsh skincare products. These will exacerbate irritation and inflammation. 
6. Do not wear makeup. Wait until you’re fully healed from microneedling before applying makeup.