Microneedling Results: What to Expect When Treated by a Dermatologist

Microneedling is a powerful cosmetic treatment that stimulates collagen production to improve the texture and overall appearance of your skin. When performed by a board-certified dermatologist, the results are noticeably more effective and longer-lasting than DIY tools or treatments performed in non-medical spas.

For patients in Los Alamitos and Agoura Hills, our providers offer advanced microneedling options as part of our
Cosmetic Dermatology services.

What Conditions Can Microneedling Improve?

Dermatologists frequently use microneedling to treat:

  • Acne scars
  • Surgical scars
  • Injury-related scars
  • Uneven texture
  • Early signs of aging

To learn whether microneedling is the best treatment for your skin concerns, our dermatology team provides personalized evaluations through our
General Dermatology Department.

Types of Microneedling Performed by Dermatologists

When you choose a medical provider, your dermatologist may perform microneedling with a traditional device or use enhanced techniques for stronger, more targeted results.

Radiofrequency Microneedling (RF Microneedling)

Radiofrequency microneedling adds heat energy that travels through the microneedles into the deeper layers of the skin.
This thermal stimulation boosts collagen production and can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Why Patients Choose RF Microneedling

  • Safe for all skin tones
  • Can deliver laser-like results with less downtime
  • Especially helpful for tightening and smoothing texture

Although early studies show promising results—especially for darker skin tones—additional research is ongoing.

Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

Combining microneedling with PRP enhances your skin’s ability to regenerate collagen.

How It Works

  • A small sample of your blood is drawn.
  • It is placed into a centrifuge, separating the platelet-rich plasma.
  • Your dermatologist performs microneedling to create micro-channels in the skin.
  • The PRP is applied directly onto the treated area for deeper absorption and improved healing.

This combination is especially effective for acne scarring and is safe for all skin tones.

To explore whether PRP microneedling is right for you, contact our offices through the
New Patients page.

How Many Microneedling Treatments Will You Need?

The number of sessions depends on your goals and the condition being treated.

For acne scars, dermatologists commonly recommend 3 to 5 sessions, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart.
Studies show that this treatment plan can improve acne scars by 50–70%.

When Will You See Results?

Microneedling results appear gradually as new collagen forms.

Timeline

  • First improvements: a few weeks
  • Full results: several months
  • Best outcomes: often after a series of treatments

How Long Do Microneedling Results Last?

Over time, your body naturally loses collagen. Your microneedling results will fade gradually unless collagen breakdown is minimized.

To prolong your results:

  • Protect your skin from the sun
  • Avoid smoking

Your dermatologist may also recommend annual maintenance sessions, which can be scheduled through our
Cosmetic Dermatology services.

Downtime After Microneedling

Microneedling requires minimal downtime.

Common Post-Treatment Reactions

  • Mild redness (lighter skin tones)
  • Darker pigmentation or warmth (darker skin tones)
  • A sunburn-like sensation
  • Minor swelling or tenderness

These effects typically resolve within a few days to one week.

Aftercare
Your dermatologist may prescribe a soothing post-treatment cream or topical care plan to support healing.
You may return to work or school immediately after treatment, but wait 24 hours before applying makeup.

Possible Side Effects

When performed by a board-certified dermatologist, the risk of complications is low.
However, when performed improperly, microneedling may lead to:

  • Infection
  • Scarring
  • Persistent discoloration

Following your dermatologist’s at-home care instructions helps minimize risks and optimize results.

How Long Does a Microneedling Treatment Take?

Treatment time varies depending on the area and condition being treated.

  • Small areas (fine lines on upper lip): a few minutes
  • Larger areas (stretch marks on hips): 15–30 minutes

Who Should Avoid Microneedling?

Microneedling is safe for most skin types, but it is not appropriate for everyone.

You should avoid microneedling if you:

  • Heal poorly or slowly
  • Have a history of keloids
  • Have a weakened immune system
  • Are treating skin cancer in the targeted area
  • Are undergoing radiation therapy

Microneedling must also be delayed if you have:

  • A tan or recent sun exposure
  • An active skin infection
  • Painful or pus-filled acne lesions
  • Recently taken isotretinoin (Accutane®)

Your dermatologist will wait until these conditions clear. If you are taking isotretinoin, at least 1 month must pass before microneedling can begin.

What to Know Before Getting Microneedling

Microneedling is a medical procedure, not just a spa service. Seeing a trained dermatologist ensures you receive the safest, most effective treatment available.

When you visit a board-certified dermatologist, you receive:

1. A Pre-Treatment Consultation

Your dermatologist will review your medical history, skin concerns, and treatment expectations.
They will determine whether microneedling is safe and appropriate for your skin.

2. Expert, Skilled Care

As skin specialists, dermatologists know how to perform microneedling safely and customize the treatment for your skin type and goals.

3. A Personalized Skin Care Plan

You will receive instructions for preparing your skin for 2–4 weeks before treatment, which may include:

  • Pausing retinol or tretinoin
  • Avoiding certain exfoliants or actives
  • Strict sun protection

Aftercare instructions help prevent infection and support optimal results.

To learn more or schedule your consultation, visit our
Cosmetic Dermatology page
or connect with us as a new patient at our
Los Alamitos & Agoura Hills dermatology offices.