Fine lines, acne scars, texture issues, and stretch marks can make your skin look different from how you would like, even with a consistent skincare routine. Microneedling works with your skin’s natural healing response to improve texture, firmness, and overall quality with little downtime. Learning how this non-surgical treatment works, what it can address, and what recovery involves can help you decide whether it fits your goals.
At Farris Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX, Dr. Zachary Farris provides personalized cosmetic care based on each patient’s skin and concerns. Dr. Farris is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who trained in New York City and previously served as an assistant professor, educator, and researcher at Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment performed with a handheld device containing very fine needles. As the device moves across the targeted area, the needles create controlled microscopic injuries in the skin.
These tiny channels trigger the body’s natural healing response and stimulate collagen and elastin production. As the skin repairs itself, microneedling can improve texture, soften certain scars and fine lines, and provide a mild tightening effect.
What Can Microneedling Treat?
Microneedling can address several common skin concerns on the face and body. Farris Plastic Surgery may recommend it for concerns such as:
- Fine lines and facial wrinkles, including lines around the eyes and mouth
- Mild to moderate acne scars
- Surgical or burn scars
- Stretch marks
- Uneven skin texture
- Mild skin laxity
- Melasma (in appropriately selected patients)
Treatment can be performed on many areas of the face, including the forehead, cheeks, chin, jawline, and areas around the eyes. Microneedling may also be used on the neck, décolletage, hands, arms, stomach, and thighs depending on the concern being treated.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Before treatment, your skin is cleaned and prepared. A topical numbing cream can make the procedure more comfortable.
The microneedling device is then passed over the targeted area, creating tiny channels at a controlled depth. Needle depth can vary according to the targeted area and the concern being addressed. These controlled injuries encourage collagen production as the skin heals.
Most sessions take less than an hour, although the exact time depends on the size and number of areas treated. Microneedling is generally performed as an outpatient procedure.
Who Is a Candidate for Microneedling?
People who want to improve skin texture, scarring, fine lines, stretch marks, or mild skin laxity may be candidates for microneedling, depending on their skin condition and medical history. It can be used across a wide range of skin tones because it does not rely on laser or light energy.
Microneedling should be postponed or avoided in some circumstances. These can include active skin infections, open wounds, certain inflammatory acne lesions, or recent use of isotretinoin. Dr. Farris will evaluate your skin and medical history before recommending treatment.
What Is Microneedling Recovery Like?
Microneedling typically involves little downtime. Your skin may look red or feel warm, tight, or mildly irritated after treatment. Mild swelling, itching, bruising, or flaking can also occur.
These effects generally fade within several days. Because treated skin can be more sensitive while healing, you should follow the skincare and sun-protection instructions provided by the practice.
How Many Microneedling Treatments Will I Need?
A series of treatments is often recommended because collagen remodeling develops gradually. Mild concerns may be treated with a series of about three sessions spaced approximately four weeks apart, while more extensive concerns may require additional appointments.
Some improvement may become noticeable relatively early, but collagen production continues over the following months. Your plan will vary based on your skin, the specific concern being treated, and the amount of change you are hoping to achieve.
Microneedling Before & After
Why Choose Farris Plastic Surgery for Microneedling in Dallas, TX?
Dr. Farris combines extensive plastic surgery training with an individualized approach to cosmetic care. As a physician who previously taught plastic surgery trainees and medical students, he brings a strong understanding of facial anatomy, skin aging, and aesthetic balance to treatment planning. At Farris Plastic Surgery, recommendations are based on your skin characteristics and goals rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Should I Prepare for Microneedling?
Before microneedling, tell your provider about your medications, supplements, skin conditions, and recent cosmetic services. Avoid tanning, and don't arrive with sunburned or irritated skin. You may also be asked to temporarily stop certain topical products, such as retinoids or exfoliating acids, before your appointment. Follow the specific preparation instructions provided based on your skin and treatment plan.
How Long Do Microneedling Results Last?
Microneedling results do not have a fixed expiration date. Improvements develop as your skin produces and remodels collagen, but natural aging and gradual collagen loss continue over time. How long you notice improvement depends on your age, skin condition, treatment area, skincare habits, sun exposure, and the concern being addressed. Periodic follow-ups may help maintain your outcomes.
Will I Need Maintenance Microneedling Treatments?
You may benefit from maintenance treatments after completing your initial series. Some patients return approximately every six to 12 months, although the appropriate interval depends on your skin, goals, and how your results change over time. Your provider can recommend a maintenance plan based on how your skin responds to the initial service and whether you want further improvement.
When Can I Wear Makeup After Microneedling?
Generally, avoid makeup for at least 24 hours after microneedling while your skin recovers. Depending on the depth of treatment and how your skin responds, you may need to wait longer. Applying makeup too soon can irritate sensitive skin. Follow the aftercare instructions provided by the practice before returning to your usual cosmetic products.
When Can I Exercise After Microneedling?
Your provider may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for at least the first 24 hours after microneedling. Heavy sweating, heat, and friction can irritate skin that is temporarily more sensitive after treatment. You might need more time if redness, swelling, or irritation persists. You’ll receive instructions based on the depth and your skin’s response.
What Skincare Products Should I Avoid Before Microneedling?
Certain products can increase skin sensitivity before microneedling. Your provider may recommend temporarily stopping retinoids, exfoliating acids such as glycolic or salicylic acid, scrubs, or other potentially irritating products for several days before treatment. Do not stop prescription skincare medications without medical guidance. Your specific instructions might vary depending on the products you use and your skin condition.
Refresh Your Skin With Microneedling
Microneedling offers a minimally invasive way to address fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks, and more. Because improvement develops through your skin’s healing response, results can continue to become more noticeable as new collagen forms.
Meet with Dr. Zachary Farris at Farris Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX, to find out whether microneedling is right for your skin. Call 214-363-1073 to book a consultation.
