What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment for skin rejuvenation. By creating controlled micro-channels in skin tissue, these treatments encourage the body’s natural healing cascade to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, reduce acne scars, and stretch marks, and improve hyperpigmentation. With a short-treatment plan from Dr. Brooks or her P.A. Sammy Verner, you can improve your skin and boost your confidence!
Where Can Microneedling Be Performed?
Microneedling is safe for many skin types and can be performed on the:
- Face
- Neck
- Chest
- Hands
- Arms
- Back
What Can Microneedling Treat?
Microneedling is a versatile treatment that can improve numerous skin concerns, including:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scars
- Surgical scars
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin texture
- Sun-damaged skin
- Mild skin laxity
- Stretch marks
- Hyperpigmentation
- Dull complexion
Your provider will determine whether microneedling is the best treatment based on your skin type and goals.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Every microneedling treatment stimulates your body’s natural wound-healing process without causing significant damage to the outer layer of the skin.
The healing process occurs in three stages:
Inflammation
The tiny microchannels activate your immune system, increase circulation, and begin repairing the skin. Growth factors are released to stimulate healing.
Proliferation
Your body produces new collagen, elastin, and healthy skin cells while forming new blood vessels that nourish the treated skin.
Remodeling
Over the following weeks, new collagen continues to strengthen the skin, improving texture, firmness, and the appearance of scars and fine lines.
Because collagen remodeling continues after your appointment, many patients notice ongoing improvements for several months following treatment.
What Happens During a Microneedling Treatment?
Your appointment begins with cleansing the treatment area followed by the application of a topical numbing cream to maximize comfort.
Once your skin is numb, your provider gently glides a medical-grade microneedling device across the treatment area. The device contains fine sterile needles that create controlled microchannels while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.
Most patients describe the sensation as mild pressure or vibration rather than pain.
Treatment typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated.
Afterward, a soothing hydrating serum or hydrogel is applied to calm and protect your skin.
What Is Recovery Like?
Following treatment, your skin may appear similar to a mild sunburn.
Common temporary side effects include:
- Redness
- Mild swelling
- Tightness
- Dryness
- Flaking
- Tenderness
- Mild itching
Most redness improves within 24 to 48 hours, although mild dryness or peeling may continue for several days.
During recovery, it’s important to:
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours
- Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and swimming until your skin has healed
- Follow your provider’s skincare instructions carefully
Most patients return to normal activities within one to three days.
When Will I See Results?
Many patients notice smoother, brighter skin within the first week after treatment.
Because collagen production continues over time, the most noticeable improvements typically develop over the next four to twelve weeks.
For optimal results, we generally recommend a series of three treatments spaced approximately four to six weeks apart. Patients treating deeper acne scars or more advanced skin concerns may benefit from six or more treatments.
Maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months can help preserve your results.
Benefits of Microneedling
Microneedling offers numerous benefits, including:
- Stimulates natural collagen production
- Improves skin texture and tone
- Softens fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduces acne scars and other scars
- Minimizes enlarged pores
- Safe for many skin types
- Minimal downtime
- Natural-looking, gradual results
Frequently Asked Questions
Does microneedling hurt?
Most patients experience very little discomfort because a topical numbing cream is applied before treatment. The procedure is commonly described as feeling like light vibration or gentle pressure.
How many microneedling treatments will I need?
Most patients achieve their best results with a series of three treatments, while deeper acne scars or significant skin damage may require six or more sessions.
How long is recovery?
Most redness resolves within one to two days, although mild dryness or peeling may continue for several additional days.
When will I see results?
Many patients notice healthier-looking skin within the first week, with continued improvement over several months as new collagen develops.
Can microneedling be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Microneedling is often combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), growth factors, chemical peels, or medical-grade skincare products to enhance results, depending on your individual treatment plan.
Schedule a Microneedling Consultation in Meridian, ID
If you’re looking to improve acne scars, fine lines, uneven skin texture, or signs of aging without surgery, microneedling may be an excellent option.
Schedule an appointment at Boise Dermatology & Medspa to get a custom treatment plan. Call (208) 888-0660 or request an appointment online.
At Boise Dermatology & Medspa, we create personalized treatment plans designed around your skin concerns and aesthetic goals. We proudly serve patients throughout Meridian, Boise, Eagle, Nampa, Kuna, and the surrounding Treasure Valley.