Is Microneedling Worth It?

If you suffer from unwanted acne scars, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines, you may have heard of microneedling as a treatment to even out your skin texture.

But what exactly is microneedling, what does the treatment involve, and most importantly: is it worth it?

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skincare that stimulates wound healing or the body’s natural reaction to create collagen by penetrating the skin with teeny-tiny needles. The treatment has been around for centuries, most famously known as acupuncture.

The modern version didn’t grow in popularity until the early 2000s, and in recent years it’s been taking the beauty world by storm.

So, what are the benefits of puncturing your skin with needles, you may be wondering? It turns out there are quite a few.

Microneedling treatment boosts collagen, promotes healthy blood circulation, and helps to lift and tighten the skin. As a result, microneedling works wonders for acne scars, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, and stretch marks.

What Results Can You Expect?

If you undergo microneedling, you can expect to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, and stretch marks. The skin will appear more even and smooth, and hyperpigmentation will clear up.

Generally, the most significant benefit of microneedling is its ability to improve your skin's texture dramatically. Microneedling is a collagen-stimulating treatment, after all, so it’s excellent for general skin rejuvenation. It treats textural issues relating to pores, scars, wrinkles, sagging skin, and more.

Of course, results differ from person to person, depending on your skin issue.

Does Microneedling Hurt?

The idea of tiny needles piercing your skin may sound painful, but microneedling generally doesn’t hurt. Saying that, the treatment is unlikely to feel outstanding too.

Your dermatologist or plastic surgeon will apply numbing cream that will seep into your skin, making the treatment an easy process for you. The treatment should take around 20 minutes to complete, but you’ll be surprised at how quick it will feel.

Many people barely feel the microneedling tool pass over their skin, but some agree that the forehead, hairline, and jawline areas are more sensitive than other spots.

In most cases, the procedure is followed up with a soothing serum and a hydrating face mask to calm the skin. A couple of hours after the treatment, when the numbing cream has worn off, you may barely believe that your face was poked by needles vigorously.

So yes, while microneedling may sound scary, most people are unlikely to experience any pain whatsoever.

Is There Any Downtime After Microneedling Treatment?

Another benefit of microneedling is that there isn’t any significant downtime. Straight after treatment, you may notice some redness or even some areas of pinpoint bleeding, but that’s usually it.

A couple of hours following treatment, your face will pretty much be back to normal. By the next day, you can resume your daily skincare routine and usual activities.

It may be best to avoid planning anything later on the day of your treatment to be safe. You don’t want to turn up to a hot date with a rosy-red face, after all.

How Frequently Should You Receive Microneedling Treatment?

While one microneedling treatment will deliver positive results, for the best results, multiple appointments are recommended. Each microneedling appointment should be spaced out at least a month apart or longer.

Who Should Avoid Microneedling?

Microneedling is safe for all skin types. But pregnant and breastfeeding women shouldn’t receive microneedling treatment as they cannot use the numbing cream applied to the face before the procedure.

If you have any open lesions like cold sores or active acne, it’s also best to hold off on microneedling treatment until they heal. Microneedling over a sore or acne lesion can potentially lead to a severe outbreak, which is, of course, the opposite goal for our skin when taking the treatment.

If you’re experiencing an acne breakout, we recommend reaching for PCA Skin’s Acne Cream. The benzoyl peroxide spot treatment targets and treats persistent breakouts while helping prevent new ones. Use it to treat your skin so you can have it prepped and ready for microneedling treatment.

How Does Professional Treatment Differ From at-Home Rollers?

You may have noticed similar at-home derma rollers on the market and are wondering how they compare to professional microneedling treatment.

While at-home rollers help smooth the skin, microneedling at the clinic is significantly more effective.

A professional treatment penetrates deeper into the layers of skin for better results. Plus, the treatment is performed by a trained professional for safety and sanitary purposes.

If you want to try smoothing your scars at home before leaping into the world of microneedling, Murad’s Invisiscar Resurfacing Treatment is an excellent place to start. The solution helps to minimize the dreaded post-acne scars, leading to a smoother and clearer complexion.

Do you want more skincare advice? Here’s how to apply eye cream correctly.