Microneedling has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in dermatology over the past decade — and for good reason. It's versatile, effective, requires minimal downtime, and works across a wider range of skin tones than many laser treatments. Here's everything you need to know.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling (also called collagen induction therapy) uses a device with very fine, short needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These tiny punctures trigger the skin's natural wound-healing response — specifically, the production of new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.
The result: smoother, firmer, more even skin that looks and feels healthier. Unlike ablative lasers, microneedling doesn't remove the outer skin layer, which means faster healing and fewer restrictions on skin tone suitability.
What Does Microneedling Treat?
Microneedling at Sergay Dermatology is used to treat:
- Acne scars — particularly the depressed, "ice pick" and rolling scar types
- Fine lines and wrinkles — especially perioral lines, crow's feet, and forehead lines
- Skin texture and pore size — diffuse roughness, enlarged pores, uneven texture
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — dark marks after acne or other skin injuries
- Stretch marks — on the body as well as the face
- Surgical and traumatic scars
- Neck and décolletage rejuvenation
- Overall skin laxity and dullness
Microneedling + PRP or Growth Factors
The open microchannels created by microneedling are an ideal delivery system for topical actives. At Sergay Dermatology, we offer enhanced microneedling sessions with the addition of:
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) — concentrated growth factors drawn from your own blood, applied topically during the procedure for accelerated collagen stimulation
- Hyaluronic acid serums — deep hydration and plumping
- Vitamin C and brightening serums — for hyperpigmentation-focused treatments
These additions can significantly amplify the results of a standard microneedling session, particularly for acne scarring and anti-aging goals.
What to Expect During the Treatment
Here's what a microneedling session looks like at our South Tampa office:
- Numbing cream is applied 30–45 minutes before your session for maximum comfort. Most patients find the treatment very tolerable after numbing.
- The microneedling device is moved across the skin in multiple passes. The depth and speed are adjusted based on the area being treated and the specific concern. The face takes approximately 20–30 minutes.
- Serum application — your chosen serum (hyaluronic acid, PRP, vitamin C) is applied during the treatment and immediately after.
- Post-care instructions — you'll leave with a gentle barrier moisturizer and detailed instructions for the following days.
Recovery and Downtime
Immediately after microneedling, your skin will look pink-to-red — like a moderate sunburn — and may feel warm and tight. This typically resolves within 24–48 hours.
Over the next few days, some patients experience mild peeling or flaking as the skin renews. By day 3–4, most people are back to their normal routine. We recommend avoiding:
- Makeup for the first 24 hours
- Active ingredients (retinoids, acids) for the first 5–7 days
- Direct sun exposure for at least a week
- Strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Most patients see their best results from a series of 3–6 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Here's a rough guide:
- General skin texture and tone — 3 sessions
- Fine lines and mild laxity — 3–4 sessions
- Acne scarring — 4–6 sessions (deeper scars may need more)
- Stretch marks — 6+ sessions
Collagen remodeling continues for 3–6 months after each session, so the full benefit of a series isn't visible immediately — it builds over time.
Is Microneedling Right for You?
Microneedling is safe for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–VI), making it a particularly valuable option for patients with darker skin who can't use certain lasers. It's not recommended for patients with active acne, cold sore outbreaks, open wounds, or certain skin conditions in the treatment area.
At your consultation, Dr. Sergay will assess your skin, discuss your goals, and help you determine whether microneedling — alone or in combination with other treatments — is the right approach for you.
