Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive skin treatment that triggers your body's own healing response. A medical-grade device makes tiny channels in the skin, which stimulates collagen and elastin, the proteins behind firm, smooth skin. Here is how it works, what it treats and what to expect.
What is microneedling?
The science of collagen induction
During microneedling, a device fitted with fine needles makes controlled micro-injuries in the skin's surface. These signal the body to repair and rebuild tissue, which improves texture, tone and elasticity. Over the following weeks, as collagen regenerates, the skin becomes visibly smoother.
That repair process helps reduce:
- fine lines and wrinkles
- acne scars and surgical scars
- sun damage and hyperpigmentation
- enlarged pores
- uneven tone and texture
What the treatment feels like
Numbing cream is applied before treatment to keep you comfortable. Most patients describe a light prickling or vibration on the skin. The microneedling itself usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the area.
Afterward you may have mild redness or warmth, like a light sunburn, that fades within 24 to 48 hours. Our aftercare guidelines help you heal well with minimal downtime.
The device we use
At Lotus MD we use SkinPen, an FDA-cleared microneedling device with sterile, single-use needle cartridges and adjustable depth, so each treatment is tailored to your skin. We also offer microneedling with PRP, which adds platelet-rich plasma from your own blood to support healing and collagen. Microneedling can also be paired with exosomes, which are designed to support healing and collagen renewal; see microneedling with exosomes.
Benefits of microneedling
More collagen and elastin
Collagen and elastin decline with age, which leads to sagging and fine lines. Microneedling stimulates the body's wound-healing response, boosting collagen and elastin for months after treatment. As new tissue forms, skin becomes firmer, plumper and more resilient.
Softer fine lines and smaller-looking pores
By renewing the skin from within, microneedling softens fine lines and wrinkles caused by aging and sun exposure, and reduces the look of large pores for a smoother, more even surface. With a series of sessions, many patients see a gradual softening of lines and a healthier complexion.
Acne scars and texture
Acne scars can be hard to treat with skincare alone. The controlled micro-injuries encourage new collagen fibers, which help soften scar tissue. Over time this can improve acne scars, stretch marks and rough patches, for more even tone and texture.
Better absorption and glow
The tiny channels made during treatment help serums, peptides and antioxidants reach deeper layers, so the products your provider recommends work harder. The result is a healthy glow and better hydration.
What to expect at your session
At Lotus MD, our physician-led team guides you through each step, from consultation to aftercare.
Consultation and skin assessment
You start with a consultation with Dr. Sanghera or one of our trained medical professionals. We assess your skin type, texture and concerns, such as acne scars, fine lines or pigmentation, and discuss your skincare routine, medical history and expectations to plan the most effective treatment.
Numbing and comfort
Numbing cream is applied to the treatment area first, and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to work. Most patients describe the sensation during treatment as a light vibration or tingling rather than pain.
The treatment
Once your skin is prepared and numb, the device is glided across the treatment area. Tiny, sterile needles make micro-channels in the skin, triggering collagen and elastin production. Depth and intensity are adjusted to your goals. A standard session lasts about 30 to 45 minutes, longer for larger or multiple areas. A soothing serum, PRP or an exosome serum may be applied afterward, depending on the add-on you chose.
Aftercare and healing
Your skin may look pink or flushed for 24 to 48 hours. During that time:
- avoid makeup and direct sun for at least 24 hours
- use a gentle cleanser and hydrating serum
- apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day
Most patients notice better tone and texture within a week, with collagen continuing to remodel over the next four to six weeks. A series of three to six treatments spaced about four weeks apart is typical.
Results and how long they last
When you will see a difference
Most patients see results within one to two weeks of their first session, as skin looks smoother and brighter. Over the next four to six weeks, texture and tone keep improving, and deeper changes, such as softer scars and fine lines, become more noticeable. Because collagen remodeling is gradual, results continue to develop after your series ends.
How many sessions you need
- General rejuvenation: about three sessions, four weeks apart
- Acne scars, wrinkles or pigmentation: four to six sessions
- Maintenance: one treatment every four to six months
Your plan is set at your consultation. Our post on how often you should get microneedling explains the schedules in more detail.
Maintenance
Collagen production and cell turnover slow with age, so maintenance sessions help keep skin firm and bright. Many patients book a booster every 6 to 12 months. Between visits, we recommend:
- medical-grade skincare with peptides and antioxidants
- staying hydrated and protecting your skin from UV light
- considering PRP or exosome add-ons with your sessions for added collagen support
Microneedling compared with other skin treatments
Microneedling and chemical peels
Chemical peels use acids to exfoliate the outer layers of skin, improving dullness, uneven tone and mild texture concerns. Microneedling works deeper to stimulate collagen and improve wrinkles, scars and enlarged pores. Peels can brighten more quickly, while microneedling builds the skin's structure over time.
Microneedling and laser resurfacing
Laser resurfacing uses light energy to remove damaged skin cells and stimulate new tissue. It can give dramatic results, but often with more downtime and a higher risk of pigment changes, especially in darker skin. Microneedling stimulates collagen without heat, so it suits a wider range of skin types and recovery is usually quicker, with redness settling in a day or two.
Microneedling with Botox and PRP
Microneedling works well alongside other treatments.
- With Botox: microneedling improves texture and tone while Botox relaxes expression lines. Read about combining Botox with microneedling or PRP.
- With PRP: your own growth factors are applied to the micro-channels, supporting healing and collagen formation.
- With exosomes: an exosome serum is added to the treatment, designed to calm the skin after microneedling and support collagen renewal.
At Lotus MD, we build plans that may combine microneedling with Botox, PRP or exosomes.
Safety and aftercare
What to do after microneedling
- Keep your skin clean and hydrated with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and a light hydrating serum or moisturizer your provider recommends.
- Avoid touching your face for the first 24 hours.
- Skip makeup for 24 hours.
- Stay out of the sun, and wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher once redness settles.
- Drink plenty of water.
Your provider will give you an aftercare plan for your skin type and treatment.
Common side effects and how to limit them
Mild redness, sensitivity and warmth are normal and usually fade within 24 to 48 hours. To reduce irritation:
- avoid direct sun, saunas and vigorous workouts for at least 48 hours
- do not exfoliate or use scrubs for one week
- avoid alcohol and smoking, which can slow healing
- do not pick or scratch flaking skin; let it shed naturally
If you have swelling or discomfort, a cool compress can help.
Products to use and avoid
After microneedling your skin absorbs more, so use only gentle, nourishing products.
Recommended:
- hyaluronic acid serum
- a peptide moisturizer
- soothing aloe vera or a post-treatment gel
- mineral sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher
Avoid for at least five to seven days:
- retinol and vitamin A creams
- glycolic or salicylic acid products
- fragranced or alcohol-based skincare
- makeup and self-tanning products
Why choose Lotus MD for microneedling
Physician-supervised care
Microneedling at Lotus MD is overseen by Dr. Sanghera, board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. Unlike a spa, our physician-led practice combines medical protocols with personal aesthetic care, with a focus on improving skin health from the inside out.
Medical-grade equipment
We use SkinPen, with sterile, single-use needle cartridges and adjustable depth so each session suits your skin's texture, tone and concerns. Adding PRP or exosomes can support healing and collagen production.
A plan for your skin
At your consultation we assess your skin, goals and medical background to design your plan, whether you are treating fine lines, acne scars or dullness, adjusted to your skin tone, sensitivity and recovery time. Some patients combine microneedling with Botox, PRP hair restoration or medical-grade skincare.
Frequently asked questions
Is microneedling painful?
Most patients find microneedling comfortable and well tolerated. Numbing cream is applied first, and you may feel a mild prickling or vibration, but it is generally not painful. Treatment is carried out under Dr. Sanghera's supervision.
Can it treat dark spots or melasma?
Microneedling can help reduce the look of dark spots and hyperpigmentation by encouraging cell turnover and collagen production. Melasma is more complex and needs a careful, tailored approach, so we assess your skin type and pigmentation pattern before recommending treatment, sometimes combining microneedling with PRP or medical-grade skincare.
How long is the downtime?
Usually short. Most patients have mild redness and sensitivity, like a light sunburn, for 24 to 48 hours, and can return to work and normal activities within a day. With good aftercare, many notice a glow within a few days and visible improvement within the first week.
How do I book?
Read more on our microneedling page, book an appointment or call (916) 249-7903.