When Is Microneedling Recommended for Acne Scars?

Microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled microscopic openings in the skin. As the skin heals, it can remodel collagen and soften the appearance of some depressed acne scars. It is generally planned after active breakouts have settled, because treating inflamed acne can spread irritation or make healing harder. Raised scars, deep tethered scars, unusual pigmentation, and a tendency to form thick scars may need a different approach or specialist assessment.

Choose a qualified clinician who can examine scar depth, skin tone, acne activity, and any history of cold sores or abnormal scarring. Discuss medicines, retinoids, recent tanning, and products that irritate your skin. After treatment, follow the cleansing and sun-protection instructions, avoid picking, and wait until the skin has settled before restarting irritating products. Read more about [Microneedling](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/microneedling/).

Delay treatment if acne is actively inflamed, the skin is infected, or there is an unexplained rash. Contact the clinic for worsening swelling, increasing pain, pus, spreading redness, fever, or a blistering reaction after treatment.

Ask which scar types you have, whether active acne must be treated first, what downtime to expect, how your skin tone affects aftercare, and which alternatives may suit deeper or raised scars.