Understanding the Phases of Microneedling for Acne and Surgical Scar Fading

Are stubborn acne scars or surgical scars holding you back from feeling confident in your skin? Microneedling offers a proven, minimally invasive solution to diminish scars and promote smoother, healthier skin. At our Santa Monica acupuncture practice, Acupunctury, we incorporate microneedling as part of our holistic approach, emphasizing natural healing and skin rejuvenation. We also include body acupuncture points to target internal imbalances. In this post, we’ll explore the phases of microneedling, what to expect during treatment, and how it can help fade scars from both a Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective.

How Microneedling Works to Fade Scars

Microneedling involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin's surface. These tiny punctures stimulate the body's natural healing process, leading to increased production of collagen and elastin—key proteins that support skin firmness and elasticity.

Clinical Endpoint: Pink Skin

Our goal during each session is to achieve a healthy, pinkish glow—a sign that the skin is responding optimally without over-injury. This subtle redness indicates enhanced blood flow and active collagen synthesis, setting the stage for scar fading.

The Phases of Microneedling

1. Immediate Response (During & Right After Treatment): You may observe mild erythema (redness) and a sensation similar to mild sunburn. This is normal and indicates the micro-injuries are working to stimulate healing.

2. Inflammatory Phase (Days 1–3): Your skin begins to rebuild itself. The increased blood flow supports cellular repair, and slight swelling or tenderness may occur.

3. Proliferative Phase (Days 4–7): New collagen and elastin start forming, gradually filling in scar depressions. Your skin may feel firmer, smoother, and appear more even.

4. Remodeling Phase (Weeks 2–6): The collagen matrix reorganizes, leading to notably improved scar appearance. Visible improvements in scar texture and color become apparent over this period.

What to Expect During Your Session

Our clinical protocol focuses on achieving that desirable pink skin endpoint—signifying effective stimulation without over-treatment. You might experience minor discomfort, which we alleviate with numbing agents, and temporary redness. The duration of each session depends on the treatment area but generally lasts 30-60 minutes. You will be instructed on after-care, as well as sent home with a hydrating after-care serum.

How Microneedling Fades Acne and Surgical Scars

Western Medicine Perspective: Microneedling breaks down existing scar tissue, promotes new collagen formation, and encourages the regeneration of healthy skin. Over multiple sessions, this process results in reduced scar visibility, improved texture, and a more even skin tone.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective: From a TCM standpoint, skin health is linked to the balance of Qi and blood flow. Microneedling stimulates circulation and encourages Yang energy to move freely, facilitating tissue repair and reducing stagnation that can cause scar tissue to form rigidly. This holistic stimulation promotes the body's natural ability to harmonize and restore healthy skin.

Caring for Your Skin During Healing

Proper post-treatment care maximizes results and minimizes complications:

• Keep the skin moisturized with gentle, hydrating skincare.

• Avoid sun exposure; use a broad-spectrum sunscreen diligently.

• Refrain from picking or scratching the treated area.

• Gentle cleansing: Use mild, non-irritating cleansers.

• Follow your practitioner’s instructions on aftercare products and activities.

Enhancing Collagen & Elastin Production

Microneedling encourages the skin’s own regenerative powers by boosting collagen and elastin synthesis. This not only helps fade scars but also improves skin firmness, elasticity, and overall texture—contributing to a youthful, radiant appearance.

How Many Sessions Are Usually Needed?

Typically, 4 to 6 sessions spaced about 4–6 weeks apart** yield optimal results for scar fading. However, the number of sessions varies based on scar severity, skin type, and individual healing response. Regular sessions produce cumulative benefits, making scars less noticeable with each treatment.

Embrace a Confident You

If you’re ready to diminish the appearance of acne scars or surgical scars naturally and effectively, microneedling combined with our holistic approach can support your journey. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about personalized treatment plans designed to help you achieve your skin goals.

Your path to clearer, smoother skin begins here.

If you have any questions, a complimentary consultation is always welcomed. 

Contact to book:

📞 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