Microneedling for scars is a non-surgical treatment option that works with your body’s own healing process, using very fine needles to encourage new skin regeneration.
While it sounds quite technical, microneedling is actually based on a simple principle – creating small, controlled micro-injuries to the skin can stimulate the repair process in a way that helps with scar texture over time.
In this blog, we’ll look at how microneedling works for scars, what happens during treatment, and what you can generally expect throughout recovery.
How does microneedling actually work?
Microneedling is performed using a handheld device fitted with multiple tiny, sterile needles that puncture the skin in a controlled manner.
When this process is activated, new collagen and elastin start to form in the treated area. These are the structural proteins that help keep the skin strong and resilient, and their gradual renewal can help reduce the appearance of certain types of scars.
In the context of scar treatment, microneedling helps by breaking down old scar tissue and encouraging the formation of new tissue. Over time, this can make the surface of the skin feel more even. It’s particularly used for acne scars, surgical scars, or scars caused by injury.
The treatment itself usually targets only the top layers of the skin (the epidermis and superficial dermis), which is why it’s considered a minimally invasive approach compared to laser resurfacing or surgical scar revision.
What types of scars can microneedling help with?
Microneedling for scars is most often used for atrophic scars – these are the ones that appear indented or sunken, such as acne scars or scars from chickenpox.
The process can also be suitable for certain post-surgical or injury-related scars, depending on their depth and texture. However, not all scars respond equally. Raised scars, such as keloids or hypertrophic scars, are less suited to this approach, as they already involve an overproduction of collagen.
Before deciding on treatment, your practitioner will assess the type of scar, how old it is, and how the surrounding skin has healed. These details can help determine whether microneedling alone will be effective, or if it may need to be combined with other treatments like for better results.
What happens during a microneedling session?
Before microneedling begins, the skin is cleansed thoroughly, and a topical numbing cream is applied to reduce discomfort. Once the area has been prepared, the microneedling device is gently moved across the skin in a uniform pattern.
The depth of the needles can be adjusted depending on the area being treated – for example, deeper scars may require slightly longer needles to reach the appropriate layer of skin.
A full face treatment typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, although this can vary depending on the size of the area. During the procedure, pinpoint bleeding is normal, as the micro-injuries are what stimulate the collagen response. Afterward, the skin will appear red and may feel slightly warm or tight, similar to mild sunburn. This temporary reaction usually subsides within a couple of days.
How does the skin heal after microneedling?
Straight after the session, the treated area will be more sensitive, and it’s common to experience redness or slight swelling for a short time. Some flaking or roughness may appear in the days that follow, which is a sign that the skin is renewing itself. It’s important that you avoid picking at the area or using active skincare ingredients during this time, as this can interfere with healing.
Collagen production doesn’t happen overnight – it’s a gradual process. You may start to notice subtle changes within a few weeks, but more visible improvements tend to develop over a few months as the new tissue matures. Most patients will require multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart, as the effects build progressively with each treatment.
What should you avoid after treatment?
After microneedling, the skin will be more vulnerable for a short period, so aftercare is an essential part of recovery. It’s best to avoid sun exposure, exfoliation, and active ingredients until the skin barrier has fully recovered. Using a gentle cleanser and a bland, non-fragranced moisturiser will help keep the area hydrated without irritation.
It’s also important that you avoid excessive heat exposure, such as hot showers, saunas, or strenuous exercise for the first 24 to 48 hours, as these can increase inflammation. If you wear makeup, it’s usually recommended that you wait at least a day before applying it again. Following these steps will support the healing process and reduce the risk of irritation.
What kind of results can you expect?
Microneedling results tend to be gradual, as the changes happen deep within the skin’s structure before they become visible on the surface. While complete removal of scars isn’t may not always be achievable, noticeable improvement in texture and tone is achievable in many cases.
Results will vary based on the individual’s skin type, the age of the scar, and the consistency of treatment sessions. Newly formed scars tend to respond better than older ones, simply because the tissue is still in an active state of repair. That said, even older scars can benefit from microneedling, though it may take longer to see a visible difference.
Book your microneedling consultation at Vie at Fraser-Kirk, Sunshine Coast QLD
If you’re considering microneedling for scars, it’s worth finding a clinic that has experience in performing skin-based treatments and can assess your specific scar type accurately. A tailored approach, considering your skin’s natural recovery rate and the characteristics of your scars, tend to achieve more consistent results.
Established in 1994 by Dr Mark McGovern, our experienced team perform a variety of aesthetic treatments and procedures.
To arrange your consultation at Vie at Fraser-Kirk in the Sunshine Coast, QLD, please contact our team.