Microneedling for acne scars breaks up uneven scar tissue with the use of a special device. Our team at Eminence Medical Aesthetics can use this treatment to improve different types of acne scars, as well as other blemishes.
How It Works
Newer microneedling devices give practitioners more control over the depth of penetration and the amount of controlled injury. While undergoing the treatment for acne scars, our specialist uses a pen-like device with a tip that is comprised of multiple microneedles that move back and forth.
The microneedles go into the deeper layers of the skin, reaching some portion of the dermis. Meanwhile, most of the surface area of the epidermis (or outermost skin layer) remains intact, and so the treatment involves no real downtime.
The process causes the body to release new collagen and elastin, which are the skin’s main structural proteins. Just like normal skin, scars also contain collagen and elastin, although they are aligned in a single direction, as opposed to a “basket weave-like” fashion that gives normal skin its smooth and even texture.
However, microneedling creates microscopic channels in the dermis that only trigger a mild immune response. Therefore, the new collagen and elastin are formed in a basket weave configuration, which is similar to the surrounding normal skin.
Benefits Over Other Acne Scar Treatments
While other treatments can also be used to reduce the appearance of acne scars, microneedling offers a unique benefit: It is safer for darker complexions. Take note that laser or light-based therapy is generally not ideal for patients with darker skin types because of the increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark patches on the skin.
Other acne scar treatments also come with prolonged recovery. The microneedling technique, meanwhile, results in no real downtime simply because it does not cause extensive damage to the outer skin surface. In fact, its effectiveness relies on keeping most of the skin layers and outermost surface intact so the growth factors and natural healing response of the body can work better and faster.
How Long Before the Results Become Visible?
While after multiple weeks you’ll see noticeable improvements in your skin tone and texture, take note that it could take months before you see the final results. If you have mild to moderate acne scars, you may need multiple treatments spaced weeks apart to achieve the most desired results. But it all depends on the unique situation.
Treating Other Skin Conditions
Using this treatment, our specialist can also improve a wide array of other skin conditions such as fine lines, moderate wrinkles, skin laxity, enlarged pores, stretch marks, age spots and other pigment-related problems.
More Information
To learn more about the benefits of microneedling for acne scars, make an appointment at Eminence Medical Aesthetics in Princeton, NJ. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
