Cystic acne can be more than an annoyance. Breakouts can be resistant to conventional acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide. And even once you do get your breakouts under control, there's a good chance you'll be left with scars from your deep acne lesions. Dermatologists have numerous ways of dealing with cystic acne scars, but one procedure that is particularly common is a procedure called microneedling. Here are some pros and cons to consider before opting for microneedling to treat your cystic acne scars.
Pro: Microneedling fights scars at the source.
While some procedures and compounds seek to mask scars, microneedling treats the scars at their source. The skin is pierced with many tiny needles. This stimulates the skin's healing process, causing it to produce more collagen. Scars are caused, largely, by a lack of collagen or deformation of the collagen. Stimulating healthy collagen production via microneedling helps correct the scars so they heal and never come back.
Con: Microneedling does not always work in one treatment.
Microneedling is not an instant fix. Most people need more than one treatment in order to see their cystic acne scars disappear completely. These treatments are generally spaced a month or two apart. As such, with microneedling, you really need to be patient. You also have to spend a considerable amount of time in your dermatologist's office, which may not be for everyone.
Pro: Microneedling only causes mild skin irritation.
Other scar treatments, like dermabrasion and scar removal surgery, can leave you pretty sore or come with a long recovery period. Microneedling, by comparison, is relatively comfortable. The procedure itself just feels a tiny bit stingy. And afterward, your skin might be a little sore, but not so severely that you'll have to alter your work or life plans. You can wear makeup and care for your skin as usual right after treatment.
Con: Microneedling can be a little expensive.
Each treatment costs a few hundred dollars, and you'll probably need a few treatments. The costs add up over time. Usually, health insurance does not cover microneedling since it is considered a cosmetic treatment. So, if you're on a tight budget, this may not be the best acne scar treatment for you.
Scars from cystic acne may feel like they'll last a lifetime, but they don't have to. Microneedling offers a simple, minimally invasive solution for most patients who want to treat scars at their source.
For more information on microneedling treatments, contact a professional near you.
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