What is Microneedling?
Also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy
Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin treatment designed to support tissue renewal and overall skin health. Using fine, sterile needles, controlled micro-channels are created at the surface of the skin. This process activates the body’s natural repair mechanisms, encouraging collagen and elastin synthesis.
By stimulating these regenerative pathways, microneedling helps improve skin texture and tone, soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce the visibility of acne scarring, stretch marks, pigmentation, and promote a more balanced, resilient complexion. The result is skin that appears smoother, firmer, and more revitalized.
Who and What is it for?
Microneedling is a gender-inclusive treatment designed to enhance skin health for all skin types and concerns. For the best results, it’s recommended that facial hair be kept to no longer than stubble.
Microneedling is generally recommended for adults from their early 20s onward. There isn’t a strict upper age limit—what matters most is skin health, healing capacity, and individual goals, not age alone. Treatments are always adjusted to the person, their skin, and how their body responds.
Microneedling supports a wide range of skin concerns, including:
• Fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen and elastin production
• Acne scarring and other textural irregularities
• Enlarged pores and uneven skin tone
• Hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and post-inflammatory marks
• Dull, dehydrated, or fatigued skin by improving circulation and nutrient delivery
• Loss of firmness and skin vitality over time
Why Choose Trace, Registered Acupuncturist, for Microneedling?
I approach microneedling through a holistic lens, blending modern skin science with the principles of Chinese medicine. As a registered acupuncturist, I look beyond the surface of the skin and consider the whole person—your health, lifestyle, and internal balance—so treatments support true, long-term skin vitality.
I’ve carefully chosen top-tier microneedling technology and professional-grade serums because quality matters when it comes to your skin. Treatments may also be supported with modalities like acupuncture and LED light therapy, when appropriate, to encourage circulation, healing, and balance from the inside out. My goal is for you to feel supported, heard, and cared for—working together toward skin that reflects your overall wellbeing.
In choosing me, you’re not just getting a practitioner—you’re gaining a partner in your wellness journey. Together, we’ll achieve radiant, lasting results that reflect your inner vitality.
When microneedling is provided by a registered acupuncturist, your session also includes an acupuncture treatment to support overall balance and recovery.
How It Works
Microneedling is a restorative skin treatment that works with your body’s natural healing capacity. Using fine, sterile needles, the skin is gently stimulated to initiate repair and renewal at a cellular level. This process supports collagen and elastin production, which are essential for maintaining skin strength, elasticity, and smooth texture.
Over time, microneedling can help soften fine lines and wrinkles, improve firmness, and reduce the appearance of acne scarring, uneven pigmentation, and visible pores. The treatment is appropriate for all skin types and can be safely used on the face, neck, décolletage, and selected areas of the body based on your individual needs.
LED light therapy is used post-micro needling to modulate inflammation and enhance cellular repair. Specific light wavelengths stimulate mitochondrial activity, supporting ATP production, collagen synthesis, and tissue regeneration. This combination helps reduce post-treatment erythema, supports faster recovery, and can improve overall treatment outcomes.
What to Expect
Your appointment begins with a thorough skin cleanse and assessment to ensure the treatment is tailored specifically to you. The Dp4 microneedling device is then carefully applied to the treatment area, with needle depth adjusted throughout the session to match your skin’s sensitivity and goals.
Most people describe the sensation as mild and manageable, often feeling light stimulation or warmth. After the session, it’s normal for the skin to appear flushed or feel slightly sensitive, similar to a mild sun exposure. To support comfort and recovery, soothing topical products are applied before you leave, helping the skin settle and begin its healing process.
When microneedling is provided by a registered acupuncturist, your session also includes an acupuncture treatment to support overall balance and recovery. A portion of treatment cost may be submitted to insurance.
How to Prepare
Preparing your skin ahead of your microneedling session helps ensure a smoother treatment and optimal healing. In the week leading up to your appointment, we recommend minimizing sun exposure and avoiding tanning beds, as recently sun-exposed skin can be more reactive.
To reduce the risk of irritation, pause the use of exfoliating products, active skincare ingredients, chemical peels, and retinoids approximately one week before treatment. If you are taking medications or supplements that affect blood clotting, please discuss this with your healthcare provider, as temporary adjustments may be appropriate in some cases.
On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean skin free of makeup, oils, or heavy products. Wearing comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area will help your session flow smoothly.
After Your Session
In the days following microneedling, it is common to notice mild dryness, flaking, or light peeling as the skin renews itself. During this time, protecting your skin from sun exposure and avoiding harsh or active skincare products is especially important.
You will be provided with clear aftercare guidance tailored to your skin, including recommendations for gentle cleansing, consistent hydration, and daily sun protection to support healing and maintain results.
For best outcomes, microneedling is often performed as a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart. This allows the skin to repair and strengthen gradually over time. Your progress will be monitored throughout your treatment plan, and recommendations will be adjusted to support your individual skin goals and response.
Recommendations
Typically, a series of 3 to 6 microneedling appointments is recommended to achieve optimal, long-lasting results for skin rejuvenation,, with sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. This timeline allows for proper healing and collagen production between sessions. While some results are visible after one session, a full, personalized series is required for addressing specific concerns like deep acne scars or significant wrinkles.
Botox & Fillers Before Microneedling: Wait 2-3 weeks after receiving Botox and fillers. This prevents the pressure and vibration from microneedling from shifting the Botox into unintended muscles, which could cause side effects like drooping. After receiving
Microneedling Before Botox/Fillers: Generally, you should wait 2 weeks after microneedling before getting injectables to allow the skin to heal.
Still have questions?
If you have any questions or are uncertain about whether microneedling is the right choice for you, feel free to reach out to Trace-Ace, R.Ac, at trace.ace.acu1@gmail.com for personalized guidance and information.
