How Many Microneedling Sessions Are Needed to Treat Acne Scars? 

Typically, 3-6 sessions are needed to treat acne scars - depending on the scar severity, skin health, age, and goals of the individual. Microneedling sessions for acne scars should be spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart.

Microneedling has become an increasingly popular, minimally invasive treatment for acne scars. It offers the benefits of working with your body’s natural skin maintenance mechanisms to restore skin tone and texture subtly yet effectively.

 

If you’re in Nashville, TN, and considering microneedling, Melrose Aesthetics welcomes you to reach out or stop by to speak with one of our expert providers.

​

Microneedling Success Rates & Treatment Recommendations

​

Average Scar Improvement

50% to 75% reduction in scar visibility after 3 to 6 sessions.

​

Recommended Number of Sessions

3 to 6 treatments spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart for optimal results.

​

Timeframe for Visible Results

Minor changes after 1 to 2 sessions; best results appear after 3 to 4 sessions and continue improving for up to 6 months.

​

Best Add-On Treatment for Faster Healing

Chemical peel, Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

​

How Long Do Results Last?

Results can be long-lasting with proper skincare and occasional maintenance treatments.

​

Understanding Microneedling and Its Benefits

 

Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. 

The tiny punctures trigger the body's natural healing response to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Over time, this process improves skin texture, reduces scarring, and promotes a smoother, more even complexion.

 

For acne scars, microneedling breaks down old scar tissue and encourages new collagen growth. 

It’s effective for both atrophic (depressed) scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Unlike laser treatments, microneedling is safe for all skin tones because it doesn’t use heat, which can sometimes cause pigmentation issues in darker skin types.

​

Factors Influencing the Number of Microneedling Sessions

​

The number of sessions you’ll need isn’t the same for everyone. Several factors come into play when determining a treatment plan:

• Severity of Acne Scars: Shallow scars may fade after a few treatments, while deeper scars (like ice-pick scars) may need additional sessions.

• Skin Type and Tone: Different skin types respond differently. Some may see faster results, while others may require a few extra treatments.

• Age: Younger skin tends to regenerate more quickly, meaning it may require fewer sessions to achieve results.

• Overall Skin Health: Well-hydrated and maintained skin with a good skincare routine tends to heal more effectively.

• Treatment Goals: If you’re aiming for dramatic improvement, you may need more sessions compared to someone seeking mild texture refinement.

​

Typical Treatment Protocol for Acne Scars

 

Most people need 3 to 5 microneedling sessions - spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. This timing allows the skin to heal and generate new collagen between treatments. 

 

More severe acne scarring may require 6 or more sessions for optimal results.

Each session builds on the previous one, progressively improving skin texture and reducing scar depth. While some people notice smoother skin after the first treatment, the most noticeable changes typically appear after the third or fourth session. 

​

Full results can take several months, as collagen remodeling continues long after your last treatment.

 

How Often Should I Microneedle for Acne Scars?

 

Microneedling sessions for acne scars are typically scheduled every 2 to 4 weeks. This timing allows your skin to heal and produce new collagen between treatments. Spacing treatments too closely can lead to irritation, while waiting too long may slow progress.

​

For mild acne scars, 3 to 4 sessions may be enough. For deeper scars, you may need 5 to 6 sessions or more to achieve noticeable improvement. A professional evaluation will help determine the best frequency for your skin type and goals.

​

Can Acne Scars Go Away with Microneedling?

 

Microneedling can significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars - whether they entirely disappear depends on their depth and type. 

​

Shallow scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (red or dark spots) respond exceptionally well to microneedling. Deeper scars, like ice-pick or boxcar scars, improve but may not vanish entirely without additional treatments like RF microneedling, chemical peels, or laser therapy.

​

Consistency is key - most people see their best results after multiple sessions combined with a good skincare routine.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

What Is the Success Rate of Microneedling for Acne Scars?

​

Studies and clinical experience show that microneedling is highly effective for reducing acne scars. 

Success rates vary based on scar type and treatment regimen, but most patients experience 50-80% improvement after completing a full series of sessions. (1)

​

• Mild scars: Often fade significantly with 3 to 4 treatments.

• Moderate scars: Typically require 4 to 6 sessions for noticeable results.

• Severe scars: May need 6 or more sessions, sometimes combined with PRP or RF microneedling for deeper collagen stimulation.

​

Long-term improvements continue as collagen remodeling can take up to 6 months post-treatment.

​

Is 2 Sessions of Microneedling Enough?

​

For acne scars, two sessions usually aren't enough to see dramatic results. 

​

While you may notice minor skin texture improvements, microneedling works best as a progressive treatment. Most people see real changes after the third or fourth session, with continued improvements over time.

 

If you're looking for a long-term solution, completing a full series of treatments—typically 3 to 6 sessions spaced a month apart—will deliver the best outcome. Combining microneedling with chemical peels, PRP, or RF technology can help speed up the process if deeper scars are a concern.

​

Nashville Microneedling Experts - Melrose Aesthetics

​

Microneedling is considered a safe and effective treatment for improving acne scars. It is a minimally invasive option that uses the body’s own collagen to benefit skin tone and texture.

 

Melrose Aesthetics is a dedicated beauty clinic in Nashville, TN. Our expert practitioners offer a full range of services. Visit us for Botox, Sculptra, Laser & BBL, Microneedling, Dermal Filler, Chemical Peels, and more!

​

​

​

​

Reference: 

​

(1) Microneedling, NIH.Gov, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459344/