Misconceptions about microneedling are common among many people due to improper information. Over the past years, microneedling has become one of the most popular rejuvenation techniques. However, there are some wrong beliefs or unscientific experiences about this method. Most of the misconceptions stem from using homemade machines or exaggerations on social media. Knowing the microneedling technique helps you to decide thoughtfully about taking advantage of this technique. For example, previously, we discussed using microneedling for acne scars or microneedling for dark spots.
Microneedling has been widely studied in modern dermatology. Many clinics now use it as a first-line rejuvenation option. Its popularity comes from its safety profile. It also offers visible improvement without aggressive procedures. When performed correctly, it supports the skin’s natural repair ability. This makes it appealing to people who prefer gradual and natural results. Understanding its real capabilities helps patients make informed decisions.
In this blog, we deal with misconceptions about microneedling. First, we enumerate some of the main misconceptions. Then, we explain how you could avoid these problems. Additionally, the differences between clinical treatment and home rollers are stated. Also, we will introduce the proper candidates for the microneedling treatment. If you are curious about microneedling in Marietta and want to know about the common misconceptions, stay with us until the end of this blog.
Is Microneedling Really Painful?
This belief mostly stems from the word needle. It comes to mind that the process must be painful. In fact, the level of pain in the microneedling technique depends on the type of machine, penetration depth, and skin sensitivity. Generally, the pain is much lower than you think.
This is one of the most common misconceptions about microneedling. Actually, before the beginning of the treatment, the doctor uses anesthesia to mitigate the feeling of inconvenience. Most people describe the feeling as superficial scratches or skin tingling. In cases with deeper needle penetration, the pain is still tolerable. Only some places on the face, like the nose and forehead, feel more pain.
The other origin of this belief is choosing unauthorized beauty centers and using low-quality, nonstandard equipment. Also, some people implement the technique with no proper anesthesia or use home derma rollers with sharp, unsanitary needles. These mistakes in using the microneedling treatment result in a painful experience. Therefore, they generalize their experiences to all cases. Conversely, if the treatment is applied by skillful specialists using standard machines, the technique is not painful at all.
Pain perception differs from person to person. Skin thickness also plays an important role. Modern devices are designed to minimize discomfort. Proper technique significantly improves the patient experience. Professional settings focus on comfort and safety. This is why clinical microneedling feels different from home attempts. Choosing expertise changes the entire outcome.
Microneedling and Over-Expectations
This is one of the misconceptions about microneedling that it could solve all skin problems. Here, the main unrealistic expectations of this method are introduced.
Severe skin problems
This technique is unable to treat severe skin drooping, excessive fat, or very deep scars. For these cases, usually it needs to combine the microneedling technique with other therapies such as subcision, laser, fractional RF, and dermal filler. A combined approach helps much better results to be achieved.
Instant results
You may think that significant and certain results are obtained immediately after the first treatment session. Some people expect to see smooth, fresh, and younger skin after leaving the clinic. In reality, microneedling is a technique with gradual results. The process of skin repair is based on an increase in collagen and elastin production. These two valuable proteins need time to be formed. Usually, it takes three to four weeks for the initial real results to emerge. Also, reaching the best outcome requires three to five treatment sessions.
One of the main reasons for this mistake about the immediate effectiveness of microneedling probably comes from seeing the initial glow after the treatment. This glow stems more from the temporary increase in blood circulation, superficial skin hydration, and slight swelling. Therefore, you need to expect realistically, letting the treatment period be completed to achieve the best results.
The Limitations of Microneedling for Skin Types
Limitless usage is another case among misconceptions about microneedling. Although microneedling is a relatively safe and reliable method for most skin types, this treatment, like any other, has its own limitations. Every skin responds uniquely to stimulation. Personalized treatment planning is essential. Ignoring skin type increases unwanted reactions. Professional assessment prevents complications. Tailoring the protocol improves safety and effectiveness. This approach protects long-term skin health. Proper evaluation is never optional. In the following, we point out some situations that limit the usage of the microneedling method.
PIH
For deeply dark skin, there exists the possibility of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This is why the specialist must adjust the penetration depth, the device speed, and the treatment protocol carefully to reduce the possibility of this side effect.
Skin diseases
Also, microneedling is not recommended for skin with active acne, inflammation, infection, or severe eczema. Needling could cause inflammation to deteriorate, stimulate acne more, and lengthen the healing time. In addition, for those who have a history of keloids, the treatment must be applied carefully because there is the probability of excessive stimulation.
Type of skin
Extremely thin or damaged skin may react more severely to needling, taking more time for recovery. Therefore, accurate assessment by the doctor or dermatologist before starting the treatment plays a key role in the final success of the procedure.
Microneedling Is Not a Substitute for Laser or Surgery
Another example of misconceptions about microneedling is that it could be a substitute for laser or surgery. That is not correct. Microneedling is a powerful technique for treating many skin problems. However, it is not a solution for all conditions. Some problems like skin looseness, deep wrinkles, damaged skin due to high sun exposure, or extensive scars are not treatable only by microneedling. For these types of skin problems, powerful lasers like CO₂ or Er:YAG, as well as other cosmetic surgeries such as facelift or blepharoplasty, are more efficient options.
More Pressure or Deeper Needling Gives Better Results
This is a wrong idea that if the needles penetrate deeper into the skin or more pressure is applied, stronger and faster results are obtained. It should be noted that improper needle penetration depth could cause severe problems. The problems created by wrong treatment include tissue damage, increased inflammation, a longer recovery period, formation of dark spots, and spreading scars, among others. Thus, this is one of the problematic misconceptions about microneedling.
Controlled stimulation is the core principle of microneedling. More force does not equal better healing. Precision matters more than intensity. Skilled hands ensure balanced repair. Incorrect depth disrupts tissue harmony. Gentle accuracy delivers superior outcomes. Expertise defines success.
This technique aims to create controlled microcanals. The proper depth depends on the treatment area, the treatment goals, and the skin type. For example, the safe depth for acne scar treatment on the cheeks is different from that of the tear troughs. In fact, the treatment quality depends on the doctor’s skill and choosing the standard depth.
Is Microneedling Only for Scars and Blemishes?
Many people believe that microneedling is only a treatment method for those who have scars, acne, or dark spots on their skin. However, this perception is only a small part of reality. Essentially, microneedling is a powerful technique for stimulating collagen production and cell reconstruction. This feature expands its application beyond scar and dark spot removal.
In addition to those with damaged skin from different conditions, this technique is also helpful for people with healthy skin. It is an efficient method for enhancing skin quality, preventing skin aging, improving freshness, and evening the skin tone. Being limited to scar removal is another case among misconceptions about microneedling.
By creating controlled microcanals in the middle skin layer, it activates natural repair mechanisms. Then, the growth of collagen and elastin increases in the skin tissue. The results go beyond scar removal. For example, many beauty clinics use microneedling to reduce open skin pores, improve uneven texture, increase skin thickness, treat fine wrinkles around the eyes and lips, remove tear trough darkness, heal skin dryness, and enhance skincare product absorption.
At-Home Microneedling Devices Work Like Professional Treatments
Some people think using home derma rollers could be as effective as clinical microneedling. However, home devices usually have a very shallow penetration depth. On the other hand, deep penetration may cause damage to the skin. This is why the results of home microneedling are very limited. It may only help with product absorption. Consequently, it is not sufficient for treating acne scars, deep wrinkles, open pores, or slight skin drooping. So, this is one of the main misconceptions about microneedling.
In addition, maintaining sanitary measures at home with devices could be challenging. Therefore, the risk of infection, inflammation, or skin rashes increases. Clinical treatments use standard devices with adjustable penetration depth and single-use sterilized needles. Thus, the quality and safety of the treatment procedure increase significantly. Alongside this, the procedure needs to be done by a specialist.
Clinical treatments follow strict medical standards. Sterility is carefully maintained. Depth control is precisely adjusted. Home devices lack this control. This difference impacts both safety and results. Professional supervision protects the skin barrier. Quality treatment requires expertise.
Who Is the Best Candidate for Microneedling
In contrast to one of the common misconceptions about microneedling, it is not only for damaged skin. In fact, this treatment covers a wide range of people with different skin types. The best candidates for microneedling are those whose skin reacts effectively to controlled stimulation and who have no medical limitations for being treated by this method. Here, we introduce those who could and could not benefit from the technique, respectively. Therefore, another misconception about microneedling is resolved.
Proper candidates
People with fine lines on the face, slight drooping, and uneven skin texture respond efficiently to the microneedling method. The reason is that this technique stimulates collagen production, enhancing skin quality. Also, acne scars, dark spots from sunlight, open pores, or skin dullness are among the skin problems that are significantly affected by the microneedling method. In some cases, people could benefit from the procedure to achieve brighter and fresher skin. Here, there may be no specific skin problem, but the treatment aims at improving skin quality.
Restrictions
People with skin diseases like infection, herpes, eczema, or psoriasis in the treatment area must postpone the treatment. Pregnant women, those who use blood thinner drugs, and individuals with burned skin are not proper candidates. Generally, having healthy skin, realistic expectations, and patience for achieving results are the main factors for microneedling treatment.
Accurate Understanding of the Microneedling Treatment
Misconceptions about microneedling could prevent you from taking advantage of this efficient treatment. Here, we examined these common mistakes thoroughly. Now, you know which beliefs are myths. This understanding helps you receive the best services and results. In addition, you know who is the best candidate for the procedure and who is not. We also explained the contraindicated cases for microneedling.
The best microneedling services are provided at Amada Med Spa. A professional team of doctors, dermatologists, technicians, and specialists offers you the most advanced techniques. Do not hesitate to contact us to turn your beauty goals into reality.
| Topic | Common Misconception | Accurate Explanation |
| Purpose of Microneedling | Microneedling is only for acne scars and blemishes. | Microneedling improves overall skin quality, including texture, fine lines, enlarged pores, pigmentation, and skin tone, not just scars. |
| Ideal Candidates | Only people with severe skin problems benefit from microneedling. | Suitable for a wide range of individuals seeking skin rejuvenation, anti-aging, mild scars, uneven tone, or preventive skin care. |
| Skin Type Suitability | Microneedling works the same for all skin types without adjustments. | Results depend on skin type, sensitivity, and concerns; treatment depth and technique must be customized. |
| Preparation Requirements | No preparation is needed before microneedling. | Proper preparation (avoiding sun exposure, active skincare ingredients, and certain medications) improves safety and results. |
| Pain and Downtime | Microneedling is extremely painful and requires long recovery. | With numbing cream and proper technique, discomfort is minimal and downtime is usually short. |
| Expectations | Results are immediate and permanent after one session. | Results develop gradually over multiple sessions as collagen production increases. |
