Will microneedling improve the condition of my scars? (Photos)

Question

I am 27y female with dark skin tone. I have both oily and dry skin. Recently, i moxi laser and after 4 weeks i was told to do the microneeding. Would you recommend microneeding too or some better treatment option.

Shahnoos Mahdavi, MD · Answer

For stubborn acne scar improvement, the best results come from a multi-modal treatment approach. Acne scars affect different skin layers, so combining scar subcision to release tethered scars, RF microneedling to stimulate deep collagen remodeling, and fractional laser resurfacing to improve skin texture and tone is essential. In some cases, Sculptra is added to enhance collagen regeneration and restore volume, leading to smoother, firmer, and long-lasting acne scar improvement.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns and treatment history. I understand wanting the best approach for improving your scars, especially with a darker skin tone where pigmentation changes are a consideration.

Microneedling after Moxi laser:
Microneedling can help improve the texture and appearance of scars by stimulating collagen production. Since you’ve recently had Moxi laser, microneedling can be a complementary step—but timing and technique are important to minimize irritation and reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.

Considerations for dark skin:
With darker skin tones, both microneedling and laser treatments carry a small risk of temporary or persistent hyperpigmentation. Using the right depth, spacing, and post-procedure care (sun protection, gentle skincare) is key to safety and effectiveness.

Alternative or adjunct options:

Fractional lasers or non-ablative resurfacing: These can sometimes provide smoother results for scars, especially for combined texture and pigmentation concerns.

Topical treatments: Medical-grade silicones, growth factor serums, or retinoids may support healing and improve overall skin quality.

Summary:
Microneedling can be helpful for improving scars after Moxi laser, especially if performed carefully and with appropriate post-care. Depending on your specific scars and skin type, a combined approach with topical treatments or selective laser treatments may offer better results. Timing, technique, and sun protection are essential for safe improvement.

Nick Slenkovich, MD · Answer

Hi there! I’m Lauren, the aesthetic provider here at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center. With a darker skin tone, it’s smart to be cautious and choose treatments that build collagen without increasing the risk of pigmentation. If you’ve already had a MOXI treatment, following it with microneedling about four weeks later is a very common and appropriate next step.
Microneedling is especially helpful for atrophic scars because it stimulates collagen in a controlled way and is generally safe for darker skin tones when performed properly. It’s important to know that improvement is gradual and usually requires a series of treatments instead of just one session.
There isn’t a single treatment that instantly fixes pitted scars, but microneedling remains one of the safest and most effective options for your skin type. The key is conservative depth, proper spacing, and good pre- and post-care to avoid hyperpigmentation.
An in-person consultation would help confirm that microneedling is the right fit for your scars and set realistic expectations for results.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I have been treating acne scars for over three decades with gratifying results. The title of the my response is a good summary for the treatment protocol. TCA CROSS has an over a twenty-five year track record for safety and efficacy for treating ice pick scars and dilated pores. Subcisions has an over thirty year record of safety and efficacy for elevating and smoothing all kinds of Indented scars, including acne boxcar and rolling scars And, finally, mechanical manual dermarolling microneedling (no need for the added expense and/or risks of RF Microneedling) has over a quarter of a century long record for safety and efficacy for treating superficial surface skin color and textural irregularities, including those caused by scarring. On the other hand, the use of so many of the expensive, "bells and whistles"  light and energy-based ("here-today-gone-tomorrow") gizmos out there are unfortunately backed up far more by device manufacturer marketing hype and social media buzz than hard science. So, when considering these, a hefty dose of "buyer beware" would be in order. Need I say more?

Will microneedling improve the condition of my scars? (Photos)

Answers (4)

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