17 Jul

Microneedling for Acne Scars

Microneedling for Acne Scars: Does It Really Work?

Acne scars can be stubborn, lingering long after breakouts are gone. If you’ve tried every serum and spot treatment out there with no luck, microneedling might be the game-changer. It’s a popular clinical option for fading scars, evening out skin tone, and boosting confidence.
Let’s break down how microneedling helps with acne scars specifically, what types of scars it works best on, what to expect, and whether it’s worth it.
(New to skin needling? Check out our full explainer here: 10 Things You Need to Know About Skin Needling)

How Microneedling Targets Acne Scars

Microneedling works by creating tiny, controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers a natural healing response, which boosts collagen and elastin production, two things acne-scarred skin desperately needs.
Here’s how it helps:

Smooths depressed scars by rebuilding the skin from underneath
Breaks up fibrous scar tissue that causes uneven texture
Fades dark marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
Improves overall skin tone and surface irregularities

It’s especially effective for rolling scars and boxcar scars. Raised scars (like keloids) are less responsive and often need a different approach.

What Types of Scars Respond Best?

Scar Type	Description	Effectiveness
Rolling Scars	Broad depressions, wave-like	Very effective
Boxcar Scars	Sharp edges, rectangular indentations	Effective
Ice Pick Scars	Deep, narrow holes	Less effective alone
Pigmentation	Dark or red marks post-acne	Excellent results

Pro tip: If you have mixed types of scars (which most people do), your practitioner may recommend combining microneedling with other treatments.

Are there any side effects for microneedling for acne scars?

Mild Side Effects

These are normal reactions and usually go away within a few days:

Redness (looks like a sunburn for 24–48 hours)
Swelling or puffiness
Dryness or flaking
Mild pinpoint bleeding
Skin sensitivity or tightness

Less Common but Possible Side Effects

These may happen if your skin is sensitive, aftercare isn’t followed properly, or the procedure isn’t done professionally:

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): More common in medium to dark skin tones, especially if sun exposure occurs too soon after treatment.
Breakouts: Microneedling on skin with clogged pores or poor hygiene can trigger acne flare-ups.
Infection: Rare, but possible if the skin isn’t cleaned properly or if unsterile tools are used.
Allergic reactions: Some people react to topical products (like serums) applied post-treatment.

Microneedling vs. Other Scar Treatments

Treatment	Best for	Downtime	Cost	Notes
Microneedling	Depressed scars, pigmentation	1-2 days	$$	Great collagen boost, minimal risk
Chemical Peels	Pigmentation, mild texture	2-5 days	$ to $$	Less effective for deep scars
Laser Resurfacing	Deep, complex scarring	5-10 days	$$$$	High impact, more risk/downtime
Fillers / Subcision	Deep boxcar scars	0-1 day	$$$	Often used in combination

Is It Safe for All Skin Tones?

Yes, one of microneedling’s biggest advantages is that it’s safe for all skin tones, including darker skin that’s more prone to pigmentation issues from harsher treatments like lasers.
However, sun protection is critical post-treatment to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

When to Avoid Microneedling?

You should skip or delay treatment if you:

Have active breakouts, eczema, or rosacea
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Are on Accutane or recently stopped
Have a history of keloid scarring

*Always consult a qualified professional before starting any clinical treatment.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a non-surgical, evidence-backed way to treat acne scars, microneedling is absolutely worth considering. It’s not instant, and it’s not a miracle, but after a few sessions, it can significantly reduce scarring and improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.