Microneedling FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Treatment
Jul 15
Written By Haven Morehead
Microneedling has become one of my favorite treatments because it works with your body's natural healing process to improve skin quality from the inside out. It's an excellent option if you're looking to improve texture, soften fine lines, minimize acne scars, or simply give your skin a healthier, more radiant appearance without looking like you've "had work done."
Here are the answers to the questions I hear most often in my practice.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that uses tiny sterile needles to create thousands of controlled micro-injuries in the skin.
These tiny channels stimulate your body's natural healing response, encouraging the production of new collagen and elastin—the proteins responsible for keeping your skin firm, smooth, and youthful.
As your skin heals over the following weeks, you'll notice gradual improvements in texture, tone, firmness, and overall skin quality.
What does microneedling help treat?
Microneedling is one of the most versatile treatments available. It can improve:
Fine lines and wrinkles
Acne scars
Surgical scars
Large pores
Rough skin texture
Sun damage
Uneven skin tone
Mild skin laxity
Crepey skin
Overall skin rejuvenation
One of the biggest benefits is that it improves the quality of your skin rather than simply masking imperfections.
Does microneedling hurt?
Most patients tolerate microneedling very well.
Before treatment, a prescription-strength topical numbing cream is applied to keep you comfortable. While you may feel some vibration or pressure during the procedure, most patients describe it as much easier than they expected.
Certain areas, such as the forehead or around the mouth, can be slightly more sensitive, but overall discomfort is minimal.
How long does the treatment take?
The actual microneedling treatment typically takes about 30 minutes.
Including numbing time, your appointment will usually last about an hour.
What will I look like afterward?
Immediately after treatment, your skin will look similar to a moderate sunburn.
Most patients experience:
Redness
Mild swelling
Tightness
Warmth
The redness typically improves significantly within 24 to 48 hours, although everyone's skin heals a little differently.
Over the next several days, your skin may feel dry or slightly rough as it renews itself.
When will I see results?
Some patients notice healthier, more radiant skin within the first week.
However, collagen production takes time.
Most of the improvement occurs gradually over the following 4 to 12 weeks as your body continues producing new collagen and elastin.
This is why microneedling results continue improving long after your appointment.
How many treatments will I need?
While you'll likely notice improvement after a single treatment, a series provides the best results.
For most patients, I recommend:
Three treatments
Spaced approximately four weeks apart
After completing your series, maintenance treatments every three to six months can help keep your skin healthy and continue stimulating collagen production.
Can microneedling be combined with growth factors?
Absolutely—and this is one of my favorite ways to enhance results.
Growth factors contain powerful proteins and signaling molecules that support your body's natural healing process. After microneedling creates tiny channels in the skin, these ingredients can be applied topically to help calm inflammation, support collagen production, and promote faster recovery.
While microneedling alone delivers excellent results, adding growth factors can further improve overall skin rejuvenation and healing.
Can microneedling replace Botox or filler?
No—they simply treat different concerns.
Botox relaxes the muscles that create expression lines.
Dermal fillers restore lost volume and enhance facial contours.
Microneedling improves the skin itself by stimulating collagen production and improving texture, tone, and overall skin quality.
Many of my patients combine all three treatments because they complement one another beautifully.
Is there any downtime?
Downtime is minimal.
Most patients feel comfortable returning to normal daily activities within 24 to 48 hours.
I recommend avoiding:
Heavy exercise for 24 hours
Hot tubs, saunas, and excessive heat
Swimming pools for the first day
Makeup for 24 hours
Excessive sun exposure until your skin has healed
You'll also want to wear sunscreen daily, as your skin will be more sensitive while it's healing.
Is microneedling safe for all skin types?
Yes.
One of the biggest advantages of microneedling is that it is generally safe for all skin tones when performed by a properly trained provider.
Unlike some laser treatments, microneedling carries a much lower risk of pigment changes in darker skin types, making it an excellent option for many patients.
Who is a good candidate for microneedling?
Microneedling is ideal for patients who want healthier, younger-looking skin without surgery or significant downtime.
It's a great option if you're concerned about:
Early signs of aging
Acne scars
Sun damage
Enlarged pores
Dull skin
Uneven texture
During your consultation, we'll determine whether microneedling is the best treatment for your specific goals.
Ready to Learn More?
If you're looking to improve your skin naturally by stimulating your own collagen, microneedling is one of the most effective treatments available.
At The Haven, I customize every treatment based on your skin, your concerns, and your goals. My focus is always on creating healthy, beautiful skin that looks refreshed—not overdone.
Haven Morehead, RN, BSN
The Haven | Aesthetic Lounge