How long should I wait after a chemical peel to do microneedling?

Question

Hello, I did 2 chemical peels for my acne. It cleared a lot of my acne, but I still have scars and pigmentation. I have heard that microneedling could help with the pigmentation. First question: Would you suggest this treatment (microneedling) or is there a better treatment for banishing scars and pigmentation? Second question: how long should I wait before doing microneedling after a chemical peel? Thank you!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Acne scars are usually characterized within the subtypes of atrophic, hypertrophic, pigmented, or inflammatory. These subtypes of acne scars can be visually discerning in ambient light and can cause significant cosmetic concerns. Indented and atrophic scars require a combination approach to stimulate collagen and elastin, thereby smoothing contour and uneven skin. These are usually combined with lasers and depigmentation protocols to reduce inflammatory hyperpigmentation (Melarase AM and Melarase PM). Our Hidef protocols for acne scars include fillers such as Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane to improve deep acne scars; Vascular lasers to reduce inflammation and post-inflammatory redness and erythema; Fractional lasers to smooth contour and collagen; and Fractional RF to stimulate production of collagen within atrophic scars. Textural improvement and superficial scarring can be improved with Cosmelan peels, TCA Cross for ice-pick scars, deep chemical peels, and fractional CO2. We offer a personalized approach to your combination of scars and a formal evaluation with consultation is recommended to help you achieve your final results. Our plastic surgery office offers subcision and combination TCA Cross to help reduce deeply pitted scars. In terms of pigmentation and skin resonance, we recommend daily use of Melarase AM and Melarase PM coupled with Retinoid creams to achieve brilliant skin.

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. To provide a recommendation on both questions, we would need pictures and more details about your chemical peel. That said, chemical peel can be effective in addressing irregular pigmentation and addressing scars, whether they be from sun damage, acne or otherwise.  I suggest that you move forward and consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon.
Best wishes,

Patricia Faraz, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Microneedling is excellent to improve hyperpigmentation and diminish acne scars. I would recommend using PRP during your microneedling procedure. You may need a series of treatments to achieve the best results, spaced 4 weeks apart. Doing your chemical peels prior to your microneedling will only improve your results.  I would wait 3 weeks after a peel to do microneedling. Consult with your provider to determine the amount of treatments you may need to achieve your desired goal. Hope this helps.

How long should I wait after a chemical peel to do microneedling?

Answers (3)

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