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Dr. Alpana Mohta Ranka, MD, DNB, IFAAD, is a triple-board-certified dermatologist with over 100 research publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Microneedling for Anti-aging, Acne scars and Hair Loss

Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, is one of the most versatile in-clinic procedures for texture, scars, pores, pigmentation, and even hair loss. As a dermatologist who sees both brilliant outcomes and painful mistakes, I’ve pulled together the key facts so you can decide whether to book a professional session or skip the at-home roller.



What Is Microneedling?


Fine, sterile needles create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. Your body responds by laying down new collagen and elastin. When we infuse active ingredients during the treatment, it is often labelled mesotherapy.


Expected Results

Concern

Typical Improvement

Notes

Fine lines & early wrinkles

Smoother texture

1–2 sessions for glow, 4–6 for mature skin

Acne scars & large pores

Shallower scars, tighter pores

Minimum 4 sessions

Melasma & uneven tone

Gradual brightening

Combine with pigment-regulating topicals

Stretch marks

Thinner, lighter striae

Depth 1.5–2.5 mm

Hair thinning

Thicker shafts, higher density

Scalp sessions every 2–4 weeks

Results are long-lasting because your own collagen does the work, so no frequent top-ups are needed once the series is complete.


Tools and Devices

Device

Needle Depth Range

Typical Use

Dermapen

0.25–2.5 mm

Clinic gold standard

Dermaroller

0.25–1.5 mm

Home or small clinics

Nanoneedling tips

0.15 mm

Product delivery, no collagen boost

Stamps

0.6–1.5 mm

Spot treatment

Depth and speed are dialed up for scars or body areas and dialed down for thin skin around the eyes.


Upgrades: Radiofrequency and PRP

  1. Microneedling-RF (MNRF)

    • Adds heat to shrink sebaceous glands and tighten deeper wrinkles.

    • Higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in skin of color.

  2. Platelet-Rich Plasma (the “vampire facial”)

    • Your platelets release growth factors that accelerate healing and boost collagen.

    • Particularly helpful for acne scars and hair loss.


Benefits Beyond the Face

  • Neck and décolletage crepiness

  • Stretch marks on abdomen or thighs

  • Surgical or burn scars

  • Alopecia areata patches


At-Home Dermarollers: Worth It?

Most home rollers are reused, poorly sterilised, and often blunt. That means:

  • Microtears instead of clean channels

  • Risk of bacterial or viral infection (think herpes or warts)

  • Uneven pressure leading to track marks

Professional devices are single-use or autoclaved, depth-controlled, and handled in a sterile field. Your skin deserves the latter.


What Happens During a Professional Session?

  1. Cleanse

  2. Topical anaesthetic – 30-60 minutes

  3. Dermapen stamping – depth and speed adjusted per zone (10–20 minutes)

  4. Serum or PRP application

Total chair time: about 60-90 minutes.


Recovery Timeline

Day

What You See

Care Tip

1–2

Red, warm, mild swelling

Cool compress, gentle cleanser

2–3

Sandpaper texture

Hydrating serum, no actives

4–6

Light peeling or flaking

Barrier-repair cream, avoid scrubs

6+

Fresh, smoother skin

Resume full routine gradually


How Many Sessions Do You Need?

Goal

Sessions

Interval

Quick glow / exfoliation

1–2

4 weeks

Acne scars or mature skin

4–6

4–6 weeks

Pore tightening or hair growth

≥3

2–4 weeks

Contraindications and Safety

Avoid microneedling if you have:

  • Active acne, herpes, or fungal infections

  • Chronic inflammatory skin disorders (psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema flare)

  • Keloid tendency without specialist guidance

  • Recent isotretinoin use (<6 months)

Pregnant or nursing? Traditional microneedling is generally fine, but skip RF and numbing cream. Always consult your dermatologist first.


Post-Treatment Skincare

Cleanser (AM & PM)


Hydrating / Soothing Serum


Barrier-Repair Moisturiser


Broad-Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen

Start 24 hours post-treatment, daily thereafter

  • EltaMD UV Physical SPF 41

  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF 50

  • Blue Lizard Sensitive SPF

  • Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 30


Frequently Asked Questions


Is microneedling safe on dark skin?

Yes. Standard microneedling is color-blind because it uses mechanical injury only. Heat-based devices such as RF or aggressive chemical peels can trigger hyperpigmentation in Fitzpatrick IV–VI.


Can it worsen infections?

Yes. Never needle through active acne, cold sores, or dermatitis. Wait until the skin is calm.


Does it hurt?

With lidocaine cream, most patients report mild pressure only.


Is the collagen boost permanent?

Collagen laid down is your own and stays, but ageing continues. A yearly maintenance session keeps results topped up.


Key Takeaways

  • Microneedling excels at collagen-driven rejuvenation with minimal downtime.

  • Choose a licensed professional using single-use or properly sterilised needles.

  • Stick to gentle, hydrating skincare for the first week, then sunscreen forever.

  • At-home rollers carry more risk than reward.


Ready to schedule? Book a consult with a board-certified dermatologist to customise depth, device, and add-ons for your skin or scalp. Your future collagen will thank you.

 
 
 

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Disclaimer: The content found on the website www.dralpana.com is provided exclusively for educational purposes and to promote awareness in the field of dermatology and skincare. Please note that this content should not be regarded as a substitute for professional advice or prescriptions from dermatologists. 

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