Microneedling FAQ: The Ultimate Guide to Holistic Microneedling at Acupunctury
- Stella de Stefanis
- Dec 17, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Microneedling - also called collagen induction therapy - is a minimally invasive, results-driven skin rejuvenation treatment that stimulates your body’s natural healing response to improve tone, texture, and glow. At Acupunctury in Santa Monica, our Holistic Microneedling blends advanced microneedling techniques with traditional acupuncture principles to support your skin from the inside out for deeper healing and radiance.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling uses ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-channels in the skin. These tiny, precise micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural wound-healing cascade, boosting collagen and elastin production, which helps reduce fine lines, improve acne scars, refine enlarged pores, and even out tone and texture.
At Acupunctury, we take a holistic approach - integrating body acupuncture to support circulation, hormonal balance, digestion, and stress response, all of which influence your skin’s ability to heal and glow.
How Should I Prepare for My Microneedling Appointment?
Proper preparation creates a smoother, more comfortable treatment experience and supports better results:
1–2 Weeks Before
Stop Retinoids & Actives: Avoid retinol, tretinoin, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and other exfoliating products. These can thin or sensitize the skin.
Protect Your Skin: Minimize sun exposure and always wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
Avoid Recent Aggressive Procedures: Postpone chemical peels, lasers, waxing, threading, and injectables (wait time at our studio is 1 month post-injections), close to your treatment.
1–2 Days Before
Hydrate Skin: Use gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and moisturizer.
Avoid Alcohol & Blood Thinners: These can increase bruising and sensitivity.
On Treatment Day
Arrive with a Clean Face: Avoid makeup and heavy products.
Preparing this way encourages a calm baseline for your skin and enhances healing.
What Happens During a Holistic Microneedling Treatment?
At Acupunctury, your 90-minute session includes:
Consultation & Acupuncture Integration – We assess your skin and constitution.
Microneedling with Ultra-Fine Needles – Micro-channels are created to encourage natural collagen and elastin synthesis.
Soothing Aftercare Serum – Applied immediately post-treatment to calm and hydrate.
Most clients find the procedure tolerable with minimal discomfort due to our careful technique and the application of numbing cream on treatment areas before we get started. While we insert body acupuncture points, your numbing cream will set until we wipe it off and are ready to begin the treatment. Microneedling is generally reported to feel like a mild prickling or warm sensation.
What Should I Expect After Treatment?
Your skin will initially look and feel similar to a mild sunburn - this is expected and normal. You may see redness, sensitivity, warmth, and slight swelling, which usually subside within 24–72 hours.
Common & Normal Reactions
Redness and warmth
Slight swelling
Feeling of tight, dry skin
Light flaking or peeling as skin renews
These are signs your skin is initiating its natural repair process.
Post-Treatment Guidelines: What to Do at Home
Following proper aftercare is critical to healing and long-lasting results:
Do:
Use gentle, fragrance-free, pH-balanced cleansers and hydrating products.
Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day.
Keep skin hydrated with serums like hyaluronic acid.
Sleep on clean pillowcases and avoid touching your face.
Don’t:
Use active ingredients (retinoids, AHA/BHA acids) for at least 5–7 days.
Apply makeup for the first 24–48 hours.
Exercise intensely or take hot baths/saunas for 24–48 hours.
Pick at peeling skin.
Good aftercare helps reduce irritation, promotes healing, and ultimately supports better collagen remodeling over time.
Supporting Your Skin’s Healing at Home
To maximize your results:
Hydrate internally by drinking plenty of water daily.
Use soothing, fragrance-free moisturizers recommended by your provider.
Consider gentle skin-supportive routines that repair the lipid barrier.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure and always reapply SPF.
Healing time varies, but most people see normalization of their skin within 5–7 days, with continued improvement over weeks as collagen rebuilds.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Microneedling?
Microneedling can benefit many skin types, especially if you’re looking to improve:
Fine lines & wrinkles
Acne scars or enlarged pores
Uneven tone or texture
Sun damage & dullness
Loss of firmness or elasticity
Microneedling may not be recommended in certain situations, such as:
Those with active skin infections, open wounds, or outbreaks
People with eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea flare-ups
Anyone who has used isotretinoin (Accutane) in the past 6–12 months (consultation required)
People who are pregnant
Immunocompromised individuals or certain health conditions
A consultation, as well as a detailed intake and conversation, ensures the approach is tailored to your skin and constitution.
Final Thoughts
Holistic microneedling at Acupunctury offers a balanced, integrative path to radiant skin - merging modern collagen induction with ancient acupuncture wisdom. When paired with proper preparation and diligent aftercare, microneedling can be a transformative part of your skincare journey.
Ready to revitalize your skin from the inside out? Book your session today at Acupunctury and discover a more radiant, balanced complexion.
📞 Call/Text: (424) 252-1210
📧 Email: hello@acupuncturyla.com
🌐 Website: www.acupuncturyla.com
📱 Instagram: @acupunctury
📍 Address: 1150 Yale St, Suite 10, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Each individual is unique, and acupuncture treatments are always tailored to the person’s specific needs. If you are experiencing a health concern, please consult a licensed healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of care.
Comments