How Deep Microneedling Needs to Be for Scars
Microneedling treats scars by using tiny needles to poke the skin and spark healing, but the right depth depends on the scar type, skin thickness, and location. There is no one-size-fits-all number since going too deep can cause more harm like redness or uneven healing.
The skin has layers: the outer epidermis and the deeper dermis where most scars form. Shallow pokes from 0.2 to 0.5 millimeters work on surface issues like texture or mild marks by renewing the top layer. For acne scars, which often sit in the dermis, depths of 1.0 millimeter or more help break up tough scar tissue and build new collagen to smooth things out.
Professionals adjust depths based on the goal. Superficial scars or general skin glow need lighter settings around 0.5 millimeters to avoid risks. Deeper atrophic scars like boxcar or rolling types may call for 1.5 to 2.5 millimeters, especially with tools like RF microneedling that add heat for better results. Thinner skin on the face needs shallower pokes than thicker areas like the body.
Devices like SkinPen let providers set exact depths for safety. Studies show multiple sessions at tailored depths can cut scar visibility by up to 60 percent. But microneedling alone may not fix very deep indented scars, where lasers or fillers work better since needles might not reach far enough.
Factors like your healing speed and skin color matter too. Darker tones risk pigment changes with deep treatments, so experts start shallow and build up. Always get it done by a trained pro, not at home, to match depth to your skin and prevent issues.
Sources
https://www.halcyoncosmetic.com/what-is-the-right-microneedling-depth/
https://www.michelegreenmd.com/laser-vs-microneedling-for-acne-scars
https://lilymedspa.com/erase-acne-scars-with-skinpen-microneedling/
https://labelleviemedicalcare.com/acne-scar-repair-treatment/
https://www.healthyskinmd.com/microneedling/
https://levoguemedspa.com/post/complete-microneedling-guide
https://www.flycatcher.men/solutions/stretch-marks-scars-treatment-for-men
https://laurengreenbergmd.com/breast/breast-reduction/microneedling-for-scars-old-and-new-a-journal-analysis/
https://rawbeautyaesthetics.com/education/how-do-you-get-rid-of-an-acne-scar/
