Microneedling: Restoring Youthful Skin

3 days ago

3 min read

Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), is a dermatology procedure that uses fine needles to puncture the skin and stimulate the body's natural repair process. It is a popular option for people who want firmer skin and fewer acne scars, relying on the body's own production of new collagen. This article explains how it works, its benefits, the procedure, side effects and contraindications you should know about before deciding.

How Does Microneedling Work?

Fine needles (0.25-3.0 mm) from a roller device (Dermaroller) or a SkinPen create very small wounds (micro-injuries) in the skin. These trigger the release of growth factors and speed up the production of new collagen and elastin. The result is firmer skin, a more even texture and shallower scars.

What Can Microneedling Help With?

Acne Scars: It is a first-line choice for atrophic acne scars such as rolling scars and boxcar scars, building new collagen to fill in the scarred areas. Level 1A evidence supports its effectiveness.
Wrinkles and Uneven Skin: It helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines effectively, and suits people who want to restore a more youthful look to their skin.
Hair Loss: Treatment on the scalp combined with adjuncts such as Minoxidil or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) helps boost stimulation of the hair follicles.
Stretch Marks: It helps improve the skin in areas with stretch marks, such as the abdomen, thighs and upper arms, especially newer marks that are still red or purple.

Procedure and Preparation

Duration: Microneedling takes about 30-60 minutes.
Preparation: The doctor applies a topical anesthetic about 30-45 minutes before the procedure to reduce discomfort.
Procedure: The doctor moves the device systematically over the skin across the whole treatment area.
Recovery and Number of Sessions: Recovery takes about 3-7 days. For the best results, 3-6 sessions are generally recommended, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.

Side Effects and Precautions

Microneedling is considered a very safe procedure when performed by an experienced doctor. Side effects that may occur are usually temporary, including:

Redness and Swelling: Redness and swelling from the tiny wounds last about 2-3 days.
Small Bumps: Small bumps may appear for about 2-3 days.
Infection: Infection is uncommon, occurring in less than 1% of cases when the procedure is done hygienically.
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Dark marks after inflammation (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) may develop, especially in people with darker skin if the needles go too deep, so avoid sun exposure for at least 1 week after the procedure.

Contraindications

Microneedling should not be done in the following cases:

Inflamed Acne: Active inflammatory acne on the face at the time of treatment.
Active Cold Sores: A Herpes infection that has not yet healed.
Skin Inflammation: Skin inflammation from other conditions in the area to be treated.
History of Isotretinoin Use: People who have taken Isotretinoin within the past 6 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does microneedling hurt? The doctor applies a topical anesthetic about 30-45 minutes beforehand, which greatly reduces discomfort. During the procedure, most people feel only a slight tightness or mild irritation.

How many sessions are needed to see results? For the best results, 3-6 sessions are generally recommended, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. The right number of sessions depends on your skin condition and the problem being treated, and the doctor will assess this individually.

Can microneedling really treat acne scars? Yes. Microneedling is a first-line choice for atrophic acne scars such as rolling scars and boxcar scars, stimulating new collagen production, and Level 1A evidence supports its effectiveness.

How long is the recovery? Recovery takes about 3-7 days. Redness and small bumps may last for the first 2-3 days. Avoid sun exposure for at least 1 week after the procedure to reduce the chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Microneedling is a safe and effective procedure for acne scars and skin rejuvenation when performed by an experienced doctor who carefully screens for contraindications. If you would like a treatment plan suited to your skin, consult a dermatologist at Siam Dermatology: call +66 61 448 7000 or LINE @siamderm.

Written by Dr. Patara Voravutinon, Dermatologist · Last reviewed July 16, 2026