Acne clears. The marks it leaves behind often do not. For many people, acne scarring is more distressing than the acne itself, a constant visual reminder of a difficult period. The good news is that microneedling has become one of the most effective non-surgical treatments available for reducing the appearance of acne scars.
How does microneedling work on acne scars?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, uses a device called a Derma Pen to create thousands of tiny, controlled micro-injuries in the skin. Your body responds by producing new collagen and elastin to repair these micro-channels. Over time, this new collagen remodels the scar tissue, raising depressed scars, softening ice-pick scars, and improving overall skin texture.
The process also creates micro-channels through which active serums can be absorbed far more effectively than they would be through intact skin.
What types of acne scars respond best?
Microneedling is most effective for:
- Rolling scars: broad, undulating depressions in the skin
- Boxcar scars: wider, box-shaped depressions with defined edges
- Skin texture: general roughness and enlarged pores caused by previous acne
Ice-pick scars (very narrow, deep scars) are more resistant to microneedling but can still show improvement, particularly when combined with other treatments.
What happens during the treatment?
A numbing cream is applied around 30 minutes before the session. Once the skin is numb, the Derma Pen is moved across the treatment area in overlapping passes. The sensation is described as a scratching or buzzing feeling, manageable and much more comfortable than it sounds.
The skin will look red afterwards, similar to a mild sunburn. This typically settles within 24 to 48 hours. Some people experience mild peeling or dryness over the following few days as the skin renews.
How many sessions are needed?
A single session will show some improvement, but a course is recommended for acne scarring. Most practitioners suggest three to six sessions, four to six weeks apart. This spacing allows the skin time to complete its collagen production cycle between treatments.
Results continue to improve for several months after the course ends, as the new collagen matures and remodels.
What about aftercare?
For 24 to 48 hours after treatment, keep the skin calm: no active skincare (retinols, acids), no heavy exercise, no direct sun exposure. Use a gentle moisturiser and SPF. Your practitioner will walk you through this at your appointment.
If you are concerned about acne scarring and would like to explore whether microneedling is right for you, visit our microneedling page or book a consultation at Tu Bella.
Treatments at Tu Bella