Microneedling works by encouraging your skin to make more collagen. The idea is that pinpricks from the procedure cause slight injury to the skin and that the skin responds by making new collagen-rich tissue.

This new skin tissue is, in turn, more even in tone and texture. It’s normal for the skin to lose collagen via age or injury. By encouraging the skin to make new tissue, there may be more collagen to help make the skin firmer, too.

Procedure for microneedling

During the procedure, your doctor makes small pricks under the skin with a pen-like tool. The pinpricks are so small that you likely won’t notice them after the procedure. Your doctor will move the tool evenly across your skin so that the new skin that rejuvenates will be even, too.

Before getting started, your doctor will use a topical anesthetic to reduce the chances of pain. This is done about an hour before your treatment. Emory University says the actual microneedling process takes approximately 30 minutes.

Your doctor may then apply a serum or calming treatment. In total, you can expect to be at the office for a couple of hours at least.

Targeted areas for microneedling

Microneedling is most often used on your face to target:

• acne scars
• age spots (also called “sun spots”)
• fine lines and wrinkles
• large pores
• other types of scarsTrusted Source
• reduced skin elasticity
• uneven skin tone

In addition to facial concerns, microneedling is sometimes used to treat stretch marks in other areas of the body. One studyTrusted Source found that microneedling was effective for stretch marks on the thighs and abdominal area when combined with fillers.

Scarring on other body parts may also be treated with this procedure. However, microneedling is primarily used on the face.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Like all cosmetic procedures, microneedling isn’t without risk. The most common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure. You may also see redness for a few days. Call your doctor if you notice more severe side effects, such as:

• bleeding
• bruising
• infection
• peeling

You may not be an ideal candidate for microneedling if you:

• are pregnant
• have certain skin diseases, such as psoriasis or eczema
• have open wounds
• have had radiation therapy recently
• have a history of skin scars

What to expect after microneedling

Microneedling isn’t invasive like plastic surgery, so the recovery time is minimal. According to Emory University, most people require very little downtime, if any at all.

You may notice skin irritation and redness within the first few days following the procedure. This is a natural response to the small “injuries” made by the needles in your skin.

You can go back to work or school after the procedure if you’re comfortable. Some people apply camouflaging makeup during the first few days as the redness dissipates.

Your skin will also be more sensitive to the sun, so sunscreen is a must.

After microneedling, your skin works fairly quickly to rejuvenate new tissue. In theory, you should see results within a couple of weeks.

To maintain the results of your treatment, you’ll need multiple sessions and perhaps other complementing treatments. Your doctor will advise you on the best plan of action based on your individual goals.

Preparing for microneedling

Before the procedure, talk to your doctor about ways you can prepare so you have the best possible outcome. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as ibuprofen and those for acne treatment, well in advance of the procedure.

Your doctor may also recommend that you stop using topical retinoids beforehand too. Doing so may reduce the risk of certain side effects.