Microneedling (Dermapen) for Acne Scars: Timeline, Sessions, and Results
Diamed Skin Care Team
January 1, 0001
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses tiny, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries trigger your body’s natural healing response, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
At Diamed London Clinic, we use the Dermapen 4 – the world’s most advanced microneedling device – to deliver precise, consistent results for acne scars, textural issues, fine lines, and overall skin rejuvenation.
How Does Microneedling Work for Acne Scars?
Acne scars form when the skin’s healing process is disrupted during breakouts. The result is either:
- Atrophic scars (depressed): Ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars
- Hypertrophic scars (raised): Keloid-like raised tissue
Microneedling addresses acne scars by:
1. Breaking Down Scar Tissue
The needles penetrate through the scar tissue, breaking up the rigid collagen fibres that cause depressions and uneven texture.
2. Stimulating Collagen Remodelling
The controlled micro-injuries trigger a wound healing cascade:
- Day 1-3: Inflammation (redness, swelling)
- Day 3-7: Proliferation (new tissue formation)
- Week 1-6: Remodelling (collagen reorganisation)
- Month 1-3: Continued improvement as new collagen matures
3. Enhancing Product Penetration
The microchannels created allow serums (like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or growth factors) to penetrate up to 3,000% deeper than topical application alone.
Types of Acne Scars and Treatment Approach
Not all scars respond equally to microneedling:
Best Results
| Scar Type | Description | Microneedling Efficacy |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling Scars | Shallow, wave-like depressions | ★★★★★ Excellent |
| Boxcar Scars | Shallow to moderate depth, defined edges | ★★★★☆ Very Good |
| Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation | Dark marks (not true scars) | ★★★★★ Excellent |
Moderate Results
| Scar Type | Description | Microneedling Efficacy |
|---|---|---|
| Deep Boxcar Scars | Deeper, well-defined edges | ★★★☆☆ Good (may need combination treatment) |
| Ice Pick Scars | Narrow, deep holes | ★★☆☆☆ Fair (often needs additional treatments) |
For deep ice pick scars, we may recommend combining microneedling with TCA CROSS or subcision for optimal results.
What to Expect: Treatment Timeline
Before Your Treatment
1-2 Weeks Before:
- Stop retinol and active acids
- Avoid excessive sun exposure
- No waxing or laser treatments on the area
- Discontinue blood thinners (consult your doctor)
Day Before:
- Keep skin clean and product-free
- Stay hydrated
- Get a good night’s sleep
During Your Treatment
- Cleansing (5 mins): Thorough cleanse of the treatment area
- Numbing (20-30 mins): Topical anaesthetic applied for comfort
- Treatment (15-30 mins): Dermapen glides across the skin in a systematic pattern
- Serum Application: Nourishing serums applied while microchannels are open
- Soothing Mask (10 mins): Calming, hydrating mask to reduce redness
Total appointment time: Approximately 60-90 minutes
Immediate Post-Treatment (Day 0)
What you’ll experience:
- Appearance: Bright red, like a moderate sunburn
- Sensation: Warm, tight, slightly tender
- Duration: Redness peaks for 12-24 hours
Recovery Timeline
| Day | What to Expect | Care Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Redness, mild swelling, skin feels warm | Apply provided soothing serum, avoid touching |
| 3-4 | Redness fades, skin may feel dry/tight | Gentle cleanser, hydrating products only |
| 5-7 | Possible mild flaking/peeling | Gentle exfoliation if needed, continue hydrating |
| 7-14 | Skin normalises, subtle glow appears | Resume normal skincare (no actives yet) |
| 14-21 | Gradual texture improvement begins | Can resume retinol and active products |
| 1-3 months | Continued collagen remodelling | Full results developing |
How Many Sessions Do You Need?
The number of sessions depends on scar severity:
Treatment Recommendations
| Scar Severity | Sessions Needed | Interval | Expected Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild (light scarring, PIH) | 3-4 | 4 weeks | 50-70% |
| Moderate (visible scars) | 4-6 | 4-6 weeks | 60-80% |
| Severe (deep scarring) | 6-8+ | 4-6 weeks | 50-70% (may need combination treatments) |
Combination Treatments
For optimal results on severe scarring, we often recommend:
- Microneedling + PRP (Vampire Facial): Your own platelet-rich plasma boosts healing
- Microneedling + Chemical Peels: Alternating treatments for enhanced resurfacing
- Microneedling + LED Therapy: Accelerates healing and collagen production
Real Results: What to Expect
Realistic Expectations
Microneedling is highly effective, but it’s important to have realistic expectations:
- Single Session: Subtle improvement in skin texture and radiance
- Course of 3: Noticeable reduction in shallow scarring and pigmentation
- Course of 6: Significant improvement in moderate scarring (40-70% reduction)
- Maintenance: Annual touch-ups help maintain and enhance results
Patient Results Timeline
“After my third session, I noticed my rolling scars were much shallower. By my sixth session, friends were asking what I was doing differently. My skin has never looked this good.” – Emma, 31
“I had moderate boxcar scars from teenage acne. After 5 Dermapen sessions spaced 6 weeks apart, I’d estimate about 60% improvement. Combined with good skincare, I finally feel confident without makeup.” – Michael, 27
Benefits Beyond Acne Scars
While acne scars are a primary focus, microneedling also addresses:
- Fine lines and wrinkles: Stimulates collagen for smoother skin
- Enlarged pores: Improves skin texture and minimises pore appearance
- Sun damage: Helps fade age spots and hyperpigmentation
- Stretch marks: Can improve appearance of newer stretch marks
- Overall skin quality: Enhanced radiance, firmness, and texture
Is Microneedling Safe?
When performed by trained professionals with medical-grade equipment like the Dermapen 4, microneedling is very safe.
Safety at Diamed
- Sterile, single-use needle cartridges for every treatment
- CQC-registered clinic with strict hygiene protocols
- Trained practitioners with extensive experience
- Patch tests available for sensitive skin
- Thorough consultation to assess suitability
Who Should Avoid Microneedling?
- Active acne or skin infections in the treatment area
- Blood clotting disorders
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active cold sores (herpes simplex)
- Recent use of Accutane (within 6 months)
- Keloid scarring tendency (requires careful assessment)
Aftercare Guide
Proper aftercare is essential for optimal results:
First 24 Hours
- ❌ No makeup, active skincare, or touching the face
- ✓ Apply provided hydrating serum only
- ✓ Sleep on a clean pillowcase
- ✓ Avoid sweating and hot environments
Days 2-7
- ✓ Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
- ✓ Hydrating serums and moisturisers
- ❌ No exfoliation, retinol, or acids
- ✓ SPF 30+ (physical sunscreen preferred)
Weeks 2-4
- Gradually reintroduce normal skincare
- Continue sun protection
- Stay hydrated and maintain healthy lifestyle
Book Your Consultation at Diamed
Ready to transform your skin? At Diamed London Clinic, our experienced aestheticians create personalised treatment plans to address your unique skin concerns.
Our Microneedling Package Includes:
- Comprehensive skin consultation
- Patch test (if required)
- Dermapen 4 treatment
- Post-treatment serum application
- Soothing mask
- Take-home aftercare kit
- Follow-up support
Special Offer: Book a course of 3 and receive 15% off!
Contact us:
Diamed London Clinic – Your Journey to Confident Skin Starts Here.
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