Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that’s used to treat skin concerns via collagen production. You may also have heard this treatment referred to as ‘collagen induction therapy’.

This treatment may help those looking to reduce the appearance of acne scars and stretch marks.

Microneedling works by encouraging your skin to produce more collagen. The idea is that pinpricks from the procedure cause slight injury to the skin and that the skin responds by making new collagen-rich tissue.

This new skin tissue is, in turn, more even in tone and texture. It’s completely normal for the skin to lose collagen over the years, but by encouraging the skin to make new tissue, there may be more collagen to help make the skin firmer, too.

During the procedure, small pricks are made under the skin, the pinpricks are so small that you likely won’t notice them after the procedure. Your doctor will move the tool evenly across your skin so that the new skin that rejuvenates will be even, too.

Microneedling isn’t invasive like plastic surgery, so the recovery time is minimal, most people require very little downtime, if any at all. You can return to work straight away if you are comfortable doing so.

You may notice skin irritation and redness within the first few days following the procedure. This is a natural response to the small “injuries” made by the needles and is completely normal! Some people apply a little make-up to cover up the redness in the first few days.

Your skin will also be more sensitive to the sun, so sunscreen is essential.

After microneedling, your skin works fairly quickly to rejuvenate new tissue. In theory, you should see results within a couple of weeks.

To maintain the results of your treatment, you’ll need multiple sessions and perhaps other complementing treatments. Dr Setoodeh will advise you on the best plan of action based on your individual goals.

Like all cosmetic procedures, microneedling isn’t without risk. The most common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure. You may also see redness for a few days. Call the practice if you notice more severe side effects, such as: