Dear Dr. Roach: Do you recommend microneedling for skin care? — N.E.
Answer: Microneedling is used to help treat cosmetic issues of the skin, such as scarring, including scarring from acne, irregular pigmentation, stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage and other forms of damaged skin.
The damage caused by the needle sets up a healing response in the skin that causes regeneration of skin cells, similar to the mechanism of chemical peels. Approximately 80% to 85% of people are satisfied with the results of the procedure.
Four to six sessions spaced a week apart is the usual regimen, but there are many protocols for microneedling. A session typically takes 20 or so minutes and is not covered by insurance. Risks include temporary pain and redness, but permanent scarring is unlikely. Some people (18% in one study) will get darker skin after the procedure — called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — which tends to lighten over time.
I am cautious about cosmetic procedures, and feel it isn’t my place to recommend them. For microneedling, I would say that the risks seem to be low and that most people are satisfied with the results.
