What Is Microneedling? Benefits, Downtime, and Results

Microneedling has become a popular skincare treatment for people looking to improve their skin texture, fade scars, and address pigmentation issues. If you have acne scars or uneven skin tone, you might wonder if Microneedling is the right solution for you. This post explains what Microneedling is, its benefits, what to expect during downtime, and the typical results you can achieve.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. These small punctures stimulate the body’s natural healing process, encouraging collagen and elastin production. Collagen is a key protein that helps keep skin firm, smooth, and youthful.

The treatment is done with a handheld motorized device. The needles penetrate the skin at varying depths depending on the area being treated and the skin concern. Microneedling can be performed on the face, neck, and other parts of the body.

Microneedling Benefits

Microneedling offers several benefits, especially for people dealing with skin issues like acne scars and pigmentation. Here are some of the main advantages:

• Improves skin texture

The tiny punctures help smooth rough or uneven skin, making it look more refined and radiant.

• Reduces acne scars

By stimulating collagen, Microneedling can soften the appearance of acne scars over multiple sessions.

• Fades pigmentation and dark spots

The treatment promotes skin cell turnover, which can help lighten pigmentation caused by sun damage or acne.

• Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles

Increased collagen production helps plump the skin, reducing the visibility of fine lines.

• Enhances product absorption

After Microneedling, the skin can better absorb serums and moisturizers, making skincare products more effective, especially when paired with Rejuran or Plasma.

New Yorkers and those who live in other urban areas often seek Microneedling to combat the effects of pollution and stress on their skin. It’s a versatile treatment suitable for many skin types and tones.

Our Two Microneedling Options at LING Spa NYC:

Microneedling + Rejuran

Rejuran is a polynucleotide-based skin booster derived from salmon DNA, known for its powerful regenerative properties.

When paired with Microneedling, Rejuran penetrates deeper into the skin, enhancing cellular repair and strengthening the skin barrier from within.

Additional benefits:

• Improves skin resilience and elasticity

• Supports long-term skin regeneration

• Helps repair damaged or compromised skin

• Enhances overall skin quality and glow

Best for: aging skin, thinning skin, or skin needing deeper repair.

Microneedling + Plasma

(Performed by Our Nurse Practitioner)

Platelet-Rich Plasma, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is derived from your own blood and is rich in growth factors.

Combined with Microneedling, Plasma accelerates healing and amplifies collagen stimulation for more visible, long-lasting results.

Additional benefits:

• Boosts collagen and elastin production

• Speeds recovery time

• Improves firmness and radiance

• Uses your body’s own regenerative power so it's safe

Best for: clients seeking enhanced results, faster healing, and more noticeable skin rejuvenation.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Microneedling with Rejuran or Plasma goes deeper—supporting skin regeneration at a cellular level for more transformative results.

Our practitioners will assess your skin and goals to determine the most appropriate treatment pathway.

What to Expect During Microneedling Treatment

Before the procedure, a topical numbing cream is applied to reduce discomfort. The treatment itself usually takes 30 minutes, but can be adjusted based on area and sensitivity.

During the session, you might feel a slight prickling or tingling sensation as the needles move across your skin. The depth of the needles can be adjusted to target specific concerns like deep acne scars or fine lines. It is a very tolerable sensation especially with the numbing cream.

After the treatment, your skin may look red and feel sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. This is a normal reaction and usually subsides within a few days.

Downtime and Aftercare

Microneedling has minimal downtime compared to more invasive procedures. Most people experience redness and mild swelling for 1 to 3 days. Some may notice slight peeling or dryness as the skin heals, which is very normal.

To support recovery and maximize Microneedling benefits, follow these aftercare tips:

• Avoid direct sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily

• Skip makeup for at least 24 hours after treatment

• Use gentle, hydrating skincare products without active ingredients like retinol or acids for at least two weeks

• Keep your skin clean and moisturized

• Avoid swimming pools, saunas, and heavy sweating for 48 hours

  
  

Plan your Microneedling sessions around your schedule to allow proper healing time.

Typical Results and How Many Sessions You Need

Results from Microneedling develop gradually as collagen builds up. Most people start seeing improvements in skin texture and tone within 2 to 4 weeks after their first session.

For acne scars and pigmentation, multiple sessions are usually needed for noticeable fading. A typical treatment plan includes 3 to 6 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Your skincare provider can customize the plan based on your skin’s response and goals.

With consistent treatments, Microneedling can significantly improve the appearance of acne scars, even out pigmentation, and give your skin a smoother, healthier look.

Who Should Avoid Microneedling?

Microneedling is safe for most people but not recommended if you have:

• Active skin infections or open wounds

• Abundant active acne

• Severe eczema or psoriasis in the treatment area

• Keloid scars or a history of abnormal scarring

• Blood clotting disorders or are on blood thinners

• Recent use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within the last 6 months

  
  

Microneedling and other resurfacing treatments work best with decongested pores. An abundant amount of active acne or pore congestion can have a chance of purging post-treatment. We recommend getting a cleansing facial prior to Microneedling or any skin resurfacing treatment for best results. Always consult a licensed skincare professional before starting Microneedling to ensure it suits your skin type and condition.

Final Thoughts on Microneedling

Microneedling offers a practical way to improve skin texture, fade scars, and reduce pigmentation with minimal downtime. It works by encouraging your skin’s natural healing process and collagen production, leading to smoother, clearer skin over time.