If you’re dealing with acne scars that haven’t improved with creams or facials, it might be time to try something more effective.
Microneedling for acne scars, especially microneedling with PRP treatment, is a treatment we use at Catara Med Spa to help clients get smoother, healthier skin—without surgery or harsh chemicals.
It works by combining plasma with microneedling using your body’s own healing cells to rebuild damaged skin from the inside out.
Does PRP Microneedling Remove Acne Scars?
Yes, it helps reduce the appearance of acne scars—especially pitted scars like ice pick, boxcar, or rolling scars. The treatment of acne scars improves skin texture, softens scar edges, and boosts collagen where your skin needs it most.
Microneedling treatment alone works well, but adding platelet rich plasma can enhance results by helping your skin heal more quickly and thoroughly. Many clients see more noticeable improvement in fewer sessions when PRP is added.
What’s happening under the surface is equally essential: platelet rich plasma accelerates tissue regeneration, helps reduce inflammation, and encourages fibroblast activity (the cells responsible for making collagen). This makes it especially effective as a treatment of atrophic acne scars.
How Microneedling with PRP for Acne Scars Heals Your Skin
Here’s how a treatment session typically works:
- Blood Draw: We take a small amount of your blood, similar to a lab test.
- PRP Processing: The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma.
- Microneedling: A device with tiny needles makes micro-injuries across the treatment area.
- PRP Application: The PRP is applied over the microneedled skin, soaking into the channels to deliver healing growth factors.
This process boosts your body’s natural collagen production and encourages skin remodeling from the inside.
After treatment, your skin goes through three key healing phases: inflammation, proliferation (new tissue and blood vessel formation), and remodeling (collagen and elastin restructuring). This is why results from microneedling with PRP keep improving over weeks.
Types of Acne Scars
Microneedling with PRP is especially useful for treating:
- Ice Pick Scars – narrow and deep
- Boxcar Scars – wide with defined edges
- Rolling Scars – wavy or uneven texture
These are known as atrophic post acne scars, and they respond well because the treatment stimulates deeper skin layers where scar tissue forms. Many patients with acne have seen visible improvements when treated with microneedling and PRP.
In some cases, combining PRP microneedling with other treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy can yield even better outcomes. At Catara Med Spa, we assess your scar type to design a personalized treatment option.
Benefits of Microneedling with PRP for Acne Scars
- Smooths and softens pitted scars
- Boosts collagen production naturally
- Improves skin tone and texture
- Minimizes enlarged pores
- Brightens overall skin appearance
- Minimal downtime
- Safe for most skin tones
It’s also a great treatment option for people who want noticeable results without synthetic injectables or invasive surgery. For those who want even more targeted improvement, PRP injections can be used alongside microneedling to focus on deeper scar areas.
Possible Downsides
Side effects are usually mild and temporary:
- Redness or swelling for 1–2 days
- Slight discomfort during treatment (numbing cream is used)
- Peeling or dryness during healing
- Rare cases of pinpoint bleeding or bruising
The risk of infection is low, especially when performed in a sterile medical setting. Still, following your provider’s aftercare instructions is essential for safe healing.
Microneedling with PRP for Acne Scars Aftercare
Good aftercare helps your skin heal and boosts your results:
First 48 hours:
- Avoid makeup, harsh products, and direct sun
- Cleanse gently and moisturize with a basic, fragrance-free formula
- Avoid strenuous workouts or anything that causes excessive sweating
Days 3–7:
- Expect some flaking or peeling
- Keep skin hydrated, and skip retinol or exfoliants
- Use a calming serum with hyaluronic acid or peptides
Ongoing:
- Use SPF every day to protect new skin
- Stick with a simple, nourishing skincare routine
- Stay hydrated and avoid smoking (which slows collagen production)
FAQs
How many sessions of microneedling with PRP for acne scars?
Most people see great results in 3 to 6 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Mild scars may improve in fewer sessions, while deeper scars often require a complete treatment series.
How long does PRP last for acne scars?
Collagen remodeling continues for months. Visible improvements can last 6–12 months or more. Many clients schedule maintenance treatments once or twice a year.
Can you have acne and do microneedling with PRP?
If you have mild breakouts, yes. But for active cystic acne, it’s best to clear inflammation first. Treating inflamed acne with microneedling may cause further irritation. Our providers at Catara Med Spa can help develop a plan to prep your skin first.
Is microneedling with PRP better than laser for acne scars?
It depends on your skin type and the depth of your scar. PRP microneedling is often better for darker skin tones, as it is less likely to cause pigmentation changes. It’s also gentler with quicker recovery time. Laser can be more aggressive but effective for certain deep scars.
Ready to Finally See Real Results from Acne Scar Treatments?
Microneedling with PRP for acne scars is a smart, natural way to treat scarring without surgery. It rebuilds your skin from within, softens scarred areas, and gives you a smoother, healthier look. The combination of physical stimulation (microneedling) and biological repair (PRP) makes this treatment stand out.
At Catara Med Spa, we’ve helped many clients restore their confidence with this treatment. Book a consultation with us to see if it’s right for you—and let’s start your skin’s healing journey together.
Related Resources
Microneedling with PRP: Benefits & What to Expect
8 Acne Facial Benefits: How They Help You Fight Breakouts
10 Best Acne Treatments for Sensitive Skin