Why am I not seeing results after microneedling?

Author: Gladyce Pacocha  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 30, 2025

As soon as the deepest layers of your skin are penetrated by the needles, “micro-wounds” are created. This triggers your body's wound healing processes to heal your micro wounds immediately. However, the most dramatic results will not be visible until four to six weeks after treatment.

Why is my microneedling not working?

One of the big reasons bad microneedling results happen is a practitioner performing needling on someone who isn't a good candidate ... you absolutely need medical training to be able to determine who is and isn't a good candidate. This is seconded by lack of education, practice and technique.

Why does it take so long to see results from microneedling?

Expect optimal results after about 4-6 weeks. That's roughly the amount of time that it takes for collagen to develop fully. It also takes about a month for the skin cells to turn over entirely, from start to finish. While you may be looking for immediate results, microneedling results are well worth the wait.

How to know if microneedling is working?

In the days and weeks after microneedling, you might notice that your skin burns or feels tight. Some people also have dry, flaking skin that improves with moisturizer. Most people need multiple microneedling treatments, usually about 3 weeks to 8 weeks apart. It can take 3 months to 6 months to see results.

How many times do you need to microneedle to see results?

If you're looking to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, four to six sessions should suffice. For more severe skin concerns, such as acne scars or stretch marks, you may need eight to twelve sessions.

Microneedling Aftercare - 6 Tips for Best Results

Why don't I see a difference after microneedling?

As soon as the deepest layers of your skin are penetrated by the needles, “micro-wounds” are created. This triggers your body's wound healing processes to heal your micro wounds immediately. However, the most dramatic results will not be visible until four to six weeks after treatment.

How to maximize microneedling results?

Microneedling Aftercare Tips
  1. Boosting progress with supplements.
  2. Avoiding intense activities.
  3. Staying out of hot showers and baths.
  4. Letting the skin rest before further treatments.
  5. Not wearing makeup.
  6. Protecting your skin from the sun.
  7. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol.

What is the success rate of microneedling?

Microneedling has been found to be effective in reducing even burn scars [Figure 5] by up to 80% in a study on 16 patients by Aust et al. It was stipulated that there is normalization of collagen-elastin matrix in the dermis at 1 year.

How to speed up microneedling healing?

Here are five essential tips to help speed up your microneedling healing process and get you back to your glowing self in no time.
  1. Keep Your Skin Hydrated. ...
  2. Protect Your Skin From the Sun. ...
  3. Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine. ...
  4. Avoid Strenuous Activities. ...
  5. Nourish Your Body From Within.

What happens if you microneedle too deep?

Improper Technique: Applying excessive pressure or using incorrect needle depth can lead to skin trauma, scarring, and permanent damage. Infection Risks: Poor hygiene practices, unsterile equipment, or microneedling over active lesions increase the chances of bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

What is the average price of a microneedling session?

The average cost of microneedling in the US is about $640 per session, according to over 300 patient experiences on RealSelf. This can vary between $300 to $700, however, depending on: Your location: Prices may be higher in major cities or upscale clinics.

Does microneedling tighten skin?

Providing more dramatic results than microneedling on its own, RF microneedling has been shown by researchers to be effective in tightening the skin on various body parts, including the face, neck, chest, arms, and stomach.

Can you do microneedling under eyes?

Overall, microneedling under eyes is a safe and effective treatment for addressing various skin concerns and can help improve the overall appearance of the eye area.

How often should you microneedle with a Dr. Pen?

Microneedling can safely be performed every 4-6 weeks. For collagen induction you will require at least 3 treatments. Scar reduction requires between 3 and 6. 4-6 weeks should pass between one treatment and the next.

How do you make microneedling effective?

BOOST YOUR MICRONEEDLING RESULTS WITH THESE 12 TIPS
  1. CONSULT OPENLY WITH YOUR MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL. ...
  2. AVOID TOPICAL TREATMENTS. ...
  3. AVOID ANTI-INFLAMMATORY MEDICATIONS. ...
  4. AVOID BLOOD THINNERS. ...
  5. USE SUN PROTECTION. ...
  6. EXFOLIATE YOUR SKIN. ...
  7. AVOID HAIR REMOVAL TREATMENTS. ...
  8. ARRIVE WITH CLEANSED SKIN.

Why can't I exfoliate after microneedling?

Avoid Exfoliants, Retinoids, And Acids

Microneedling treatment triggers the skin's natural exfoliation process. The use of abrasive exfoliants or scrubs can irritate the skin and hinder its ability to properly heal.

How often do I apply hyaluronic acid after microneedling?

We recommend our Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar, available for purchase. It is important to apply every 3 hours for the first 24 hours after the microneedling. These can also be continued twice a day for the first week.

What is the best thing to put on skin after microneedling?

What to Put On Your Skin After Microneedling
  • Avoid harsh scrubs or products.
  • Only clean your skin with a professionally formulated cleanser.
  • Apply targeted skincare serums that will penetrate deeply into your skin.
  • Keep your skin well-hydrated with a gentle moisturizer.
  • Apply medical-grade sun protection.

How many times do you have to do microneedling to see results?

You can safely book your microneedling treatments every 4 to 6 weeks until you get the results you want. If your goal is scar reduction, you'll likely need 3 to 6 treatments. For collagen induction, 3 treatments is a good starting point. How many treatments you need depends on how your skin responds to microneedling.

What is the downside of microneedling?

Skin damage is a risk that commonly occurs with microneedling devices. The damage may include bleeding, bruising, redness, tightness, itching and peeling, and these typically go away without any treatment after a few days or weeks.

At what age is microneedling most effective?

Generally, individuals in their late 20s to early 30s stand to gain significantly from microneedling. During this period, the skin's natural ability to produce collagen is still robust, making the treatment especially effective.

What vitamins should I take after microneedling?

Vitamin A products are optimal and suggested (low dose). As microneedling serves to stimulate the production of collagen, the skin needs higher amounts of collagen than normal to recover optimally. Collagen Stimulating Peptides assist in that process, further aiding in the stimulation of collagen production.

Why does microneedling take so long to work?

RF Microneedling Stimulates Collagen

This treatment is all about 'repair' and stimulating collagen. This takes time and occurs deep within the skin, so the effects of Microneedling may not be seen immediately. RF Microneedling causes small wounds (pinpricks) in your skin which stimulates the skin's repair mode.

How to increase the effectiveness of microneedling?

Following a consistent skincare regimen can help to maintain the results of microneedling. A skincare regimen that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing regularly can help to improve the texture and tone of the skin, as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

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