Microneedling for Acne Scars: Effectiveness and Side Effects

In this article, we’ll take a look at microneedling for acne scarring, how it works, and also look at other options you could consider such as microneedling or laser for acne scars. So, let’s get stuck in.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a cosmetic treatment that sees hundreds of miniature sterilised needles pricked into your skin. If you’re thinking, why on earth would I do this? Think again! The superficial wounds caused by these needles trick your skin into thinking it needs to repair itself. Cue a super-helpful dose of collagen and elastin.

And what do collagen and elastin do for the skin? They help strengthen it, and keep it looking smooth and youthful. When you’re young, your skin is kept nicely topped up with collagen and elastin, but as you age, these proteins deplete and thus your skin ages.

Does Microneedling work for Acne Scars?

So how does a microneedling pen for acne scars work? Microneedling pens work thanks to a spring-loaded needle tip that automatically ‘stamps’ the skin with the tiny sterilised needles. When it comes to tackling acne scars, the microneedling depth for acne scars is around 1.5mm - 2mm deep. At this depth, the skin’s response is triggered to its best ability in order to start healing the acne scarring.

According to an article in the National Library of Medicine, studies have shown that microneedling works best on -

• Rolling acne scars
• Boxcar acne scars

It is less effective on ice pick acne scarring. So, when thinking, will microneedling help with acne scars, you need to consider what type of scars you have. When you book in for a no-obligation consultation at Este, we’ll be able to assess your scarring and decide which course of treatment would be best suited to you.

How many Microneedling Sessions for Acne Scars?

Microneedling before and after acne scars photos have shown an improvement in the appearance of scars after just two treatment sessions. However, for the best results, you’ll need to wait around 4-6 weeks post treatment as that’s when the benefits of all that boosted collagen and elastin will be on full display.

In general, it’s recommended that you have a minimum of three microneedling treatments for acne scarring. These sessions should be spaced at three-to-four-week intervals, and the best results are usually seen when a course of five treatments is carried out.

Alternatives to Microneedling

If you’re unsure whether microneedling is for you, or you’re thinking whether to have microneedling or chemical peel for acne scars, then you do have a few other options you can try. Treatments such as -

1. Skin Peels – at Este, we tailor our chemical peels to our clients. So, if you want to address acne scarring, we’ll sort out a chemical peel that targets just that

2. Pixel Laser Resurfacing – makes tiny holes in the skin via laser, this then triggers the skin to up its production of collagen and elastin to repair the skin

3. Scarlet RF – a combination of short-pulse radio frequency and microneedling

4. Off-the-shelf skin serums – products with Retinol can help smooth out and correct the appearance of acne scars, as well as serums containing niacinamide and/or hyaluronic acid

The Magic Needle - Scarlet RF

At Este, we are privileged to be the exclusive home of the Magic Needle treatment. This is a combination of short-pulse radio frequency and microneedling that delivers an intense treatment targeted at improving the appearance of your skin.

Before your treatment you'll have a numbing cream applied, then the Magic Needle will be used on the area to be treated, afterwards a cooling hyaluronic face mask is applied, and finally a moisturising SPF cream is left to soak into your skin.

You may experience redness post-treatment for up to 24 hours, but this will soon subside. Your skin will look plumper, firmer and rejuvenated and acne scars will be smoothed.

Are Microneedling Results Permanent for Acne Scars?

Microneedling isn’t a permanent solution to acne scarring, however results can be long-lasting. You can expect to enjoy smoother skin for around three to five months. After this time, you are able to have top-up microneedling treatments to keep your skin looking good.

Is Microneedling Worth it for Acne Scars?

If you’re looking for a quick and easy treatment that has zero downtime and is well tolerated by many, then microneedling is definitely worth it. You can have a treatment in your lunchtime and get back to your day straight after.  

Try microneedling today and see your skin instantly boosted. Call Este to book in for your no-obligation consultation and get ready to enjoy fresher-looking, smoother skin where acne scarring is reduced.