09/05/2025
Q: What is microneedling?
A: Microneedling involves the use of an automated motorized pen device that consists of a group of very fine needles used to create micro-injuries to the skin to trigger your body to initiate a wound healing process. This procedure is sometimes referred to as “collagen induction treatment”, as the wound healing process increases the body’s natural collagen and elastin production to the area supporting skin firmness, elasticity and gives the skin a more youthful look.
Q: What areas of the body are microneedling used?
A: Most commonly the face and neck, though microneedling can be used on any area of the body including stomach for stretch mark treatment.
Q: What skin concerns can microneedling help with?
A: Microneedling is great for fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, stretchmarks, acne scars, large pores and decreasing oil secretion by 80%. When used on the scalp, microneedling can stimulate hair growth by bringing more blood flow to the region, nourishing the hair follicles.
Q: When should microneedling be avoided?
A: Any time there are any open wounds of the treatment area including fever blisters, any active skin cancer lesion in the area, pregnant or nursing women, anyone with a bleeding or clotting disorder, anyone on an isotretinoin treatment (must be held for 5-7 days prior to procedure), anyone allergic to topical anesthetic products or stainless steel.
Q: Does insurance cover microneedling?
A: This is considered a cosmetic procedure and not a covered entity under insurance in most cases, though some insurance companies may allow for you to use a Health Savings Account (HSA) for this treatment.
Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: Depending upon the size of the treatment area, typically 30 minutes to an hour. Longer if the procedure is used with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as you must allow time for blood draw and centrifuge of the blood.
Q: What is platelet rich plasma and how is it utilized with microneedling?
A: This is the process of drawing the patient’s own blood into special collection tubes and using a centrifuge to separate the platelet rich plasma from other blood products. This “liquid gold” is used to reduce inflammation, facilitate tissue repair and new skin cell growth along with reducing dark circles and accelerating hair growth when used for hair loss treatments.
Q: What can I expect after the procedure is completed?
A: You may notice redness, swelling and/or sensitivity, like a sunburn, for the first 24 hours. You may also feel a sensation of warmth, tightness and/or itching during this time as well. Minor bleeding or bruising is possible depending on the length of the needle used and the number of times it is pressed across the treatment area. After 24 hours you may develop flaking or peeling of the skin.
Q: How often should you undergo microneedling?
A: This procedure can be repeated every 4-6 weeks, the frequency is determined upon the individual needs and concerns. Most often this procedure should be completed for 3-5 monthly treatments consecutively, for best effects.
