How Long Does Microneedling Take? Procedure, Results, & Duration

Microneedling has become one of the most popular skincare treatments for those looking to rejuvenate their skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation. One of the most common questions we receive from patients is, “How long does microneedling take?”

In this blog, we’ll discuss the procedure’s timeline, the sessions required for optimal results, and how you can ensure you’re getting the most out of your treatment. We’ll also provide a timeline of when you can expect to see your results.

If you would like to book a Microneedling treatment with our experienced skincare professionals, contact our team to book a consultation.

How Long Does the Actual Microneedling Procedure Take?

The microneedling procedure itself is relatively quick, typically lasting between 30 to 60 minutes depending on the area being treated and the condition of your skin. Here’s a breakdown:
  1. Consultation and Preparation: Before the actual microneedling begins, your practitioner will cleanse your skin and apply a numbing cream to ensure comfort if desired. This process can take up to 30 minutes.
  2. Microneedling Process: Once your skin is prepared, your practitioner will use a microneedling device, which creates tiny punctures in your skin to stimulate collagen production. The procedure itself usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
  3. (Optional) LED Light Therapy: At our clinic in London, we finish off the procedure with an LED light treatment. This helps calm the skin and helps commence collagen formation. This can add an additional 15-30 minutes to the procedure.
  4. Aftercare: Post-treatment care is crucial, and your practitioner will explain in depth what is required following your treatment for the days following. At our London clinic we also provide patients with a Hyaluronic acid based Mask to take home to help you recover too.This part of the process can take an additional 10 to 20 minutes.

In total, you can expect to be in the clinic for about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the area being treated. For more in depth information about your treatment, read our before, during and after guide for Microneedling Treatment.

How Many Microneedling Sessions Are Needed for Optimal Results?

For most patients, 3 to 6 sessions spaced about 4 weeks apart are recommended to achieve optimal results. However, this can vary based on your individual skin concerns.

For Acne Scars: It may take around 4 to 6 sessions to see significant improvement.

For Anti-Aging: If you’re targeting fine lines and wrinkles, 3 to 4 sessions are typically sufficient.

For General Skin Rejuvenation: Many patients notice improvements after the first session, but a series of 3 sessions is generally recommended for optimal results.

For a more in depth deep dive into the necessary sessions needed for your desired results, have a read of our guide on how often you should have Microneedling treatments.

How Long Until I See Results From My Treatment?

Unfortunately, the effects of microneedling are not instant, as the process relies on your body’s natural healing response. However, you can start seeing noticeable improvements in your skin within 4 to 6 weeks after your first treatment. This timeline allows enough time for collagen production to ramp up and for the skin to repair itself.

The full benefits may take a few months to become visible, especially if you’re undergoing multiple sessions. With this in mind, patience is key when it comes to microneedling, but the results are long-lasting and worth the wait!

How to Maximise Your Microneedling Results:
Consider Adding Growth Factors or Exosomes

To ensure you get the best possible results from your microneedling treatments, follow these tips:

Consider Microneedling with Growth Factors

One of the unique features of Microneedling with Dr Apul Parikh is the addition of Growth Factors. Growth factors are proteins naturally produced by skin cells and responsible for maintaining homeostasis, which helps you keep your skin alive and healthy.

When applied to the skin, they function as healing agents. They boost collagen synthesis, improve elasticity, help with acne scars and pigmentation & are also used for skin rejuvenation. Growth factors are a great option if you are looking for prolonged, healthier-looking skin.

For more information on this type of treatment, read our guide on Microneedling with Growth Factors.

Consider Exosomes with your Microneedling

Dr Parikh also offers Microneedling with Exosomes at his London clinic. Exosomes are the signalling messengers from stem cells and have become the centrepiece of cutting-edge Microneedling treatments.

With regards to maximising results, they have a huge impact on skin quality and can be used to help with skin texture, laxity, scarring, pigmentation and enhanced rejuvenation. 

Follow Your Practitioner’s Aftercare Instructions

Avoid sun exposure, refrain from using harsh skincare products, and keep your skin hydrated with a gentle moisturiser. For a more detailed breakdown of what is expected following your treatment, read our Aftercare Guide for Microneedling.

Use the Right Products

After microneedling, your skin is more absorbent. This is the perfect time to use serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or peptides to enhance the effects of the treatment.

Stay Consistent

Skipping sessions can delay your results. Stick to the recommended treatment schedule and attend follow-up appointments as advised.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants, adequate hydration, and regular exercise can help improve your skin’s natural healing process.

Choose an experienced skin specialist for your Microneedling treatment in London

In summary, microneedling is a highly effective treatment for improving skin texture, reducing acne scars, and minimising fine lines. The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and for optimal results, most patients require 3 to 6 sessions about four weeks apart. While you’ll begin to see improvements in 4 to 6 weeks, the full effects will develop over several months.

To maximise your results, consider growth factors or exosomes with your treatment, follow your aftercare instructions carefully and use the right skincare products. With these simple steps you’ll be well on your way to total skin rejuvenation.

If you are interested in booking a treatment for yourself, Dr Apul Parikh has vast experience performing Microneedling treatments for clients and patients for over 16 years. Regarded as a specialist for various aesthetic and medical skin treatments, you can have peace of mind that your treatment is being handled by a highly experienced and world-renowned medical practitioner.

Our priority is ensuring you enjoy a comfortable treatment and have confidence in your results. Our subtle style ensures that patients look fresh and rejuvenated following every treatment we perform.

Contact Dr Apul Parikh to book a consultation with a medical aesthetic skin specialist and discuss your desired goals in detail.