Microneedling

Collagen induction therapy for acne scars.

An electric Collagen P.I.N. pen creates controlled micro-injuries that stimulate new collagen to smooth rolling and boxcar acne scars.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy or CIT, is an aesthetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, and photodamage, and to improve the skin’s overall appearance. Most scientific studies have examined microneedling for acne scarring, and rolling and boxcar acne scars respond more effectively than ice-pick scars. Some patients have seen more than 50% improvement in their acne scars, though it is important to have realistic expectations, since microneedling will not eliminate scars entirely. Microneedling has also been studied for facial wrinkles, melasma, and stretch marks.

Microneedling diagram

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Microneedling procedure video

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Microneedling procedure with the Collagen P.I.N.

Microneedling for acne scars across metro Detroit

Dr. Singer treats acne scars at his Bingham Farms office, convenient to patients throughout Oakland County and metro Detroit. The right plan depends on your scar type and goals, so every treatment starts with an in-person assessment.
Frequently asked questions

The Collagen P.I.N. electric powered micro needling pen is a handheld device used to create precise microscopic punctures in the skin of varying depths. The pen is composed of a series of fine needles which vibrate rapidly, penetrate the dermis, and allow for controlled induction of the skin self-repair mechanisms by creating ‘micro-injuries.’ These ‘micro-injuries’ are created by gently pressing and gliding the Collagen P.I.N.  microneedles across the skin surface. These tiny needles vibrate rapidly, more than 7,000 RPM. The end point is the development of “pin-point bleeding.”

The Collagen P.I.N. has been studied in clinical trials for the treatment of acne scars, sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, and the improvement of skin tone and texture.

Studies show that creating abundant micro-injuries in the skin directly stimulates the release of growth factors that drive collagen and elastin synthesis within the dermis. An increase in TGF-beta3 in particular is felt to be largely responsible for regenerating collagen and improving the appearance of scars. The numerous microchannels created in depressed acne scars are also thought to physically break apart the compact collagen bundles in the superficial dermis while inducing new collagen and elastin underneath the scar.

The microneedling procedure is normally completed within 30 minutes, depending on the treatment required and the anatomical site.

Microneedling is well tolerated with minimal discomfort. The skin is pre-treated with a topical anesthetic, which renders the procedure virtually painless.

The process of collagen remodeling and deposition takes weeks to occur, and multiple sessions over several months are typically needed to see results.

We typically recommend a minimum of 3 sessions, though people often need closer to 6 sessions to see meaningful results.

Results may last several years, but future microneedling sessions may be necessary to maintain the improvement.

We use the Collagen P.I.N. for its ease of use and its ability to avoid cross contamination between patients. A sterile disposable needle tip is used with each patient, avoiding cross contamination. The Collagen P.I.N. is awaiting FDA clearance for the treatment of scarring. Microneedling has been used successfully for acne scars, wrinkles, photoaging, and melasma.

Microneedling is considered a noninvasive aesthetic procedure with a low rate of adverse effects.

The most common and expected side effects include:

  1. Temporary redness
  2. Localized swelling
  3. Skin flaking and peeling, which typically resolves within three days
  4. Pinpoint bleeding, the desired endpoint of the procedure, which typically resolves within minutes using pressure and cold wet gauze

Potential rare side effects include:

  1. Temporary discoloration
  2. Scarring, including stamping type (very rare)
  3. Infection or worsening of a pre-existing infection
  4. Granuloma formation
  5. Reactivation of herpes simplex virus (cold sores)

Microneedling should be avoided by:

  1. Those with active inflammatory acne with pimples and pus bumps
  2. Those with an active herpes infection (cold sores)
  3. Those with warts
  4. Those with recent sun exposure or a visible tan, until all traces of suntan have faded, to minimize post-treatment discoloration
  5. Those who have received facial filler such as Restylane or Juvederm within the previous seven days
  6. Those with a history of keloids
  7. Those with immunosuppression (a weakened immune system)
  8. Those with a history of connective tissue disease such as lupus or scleroderma

The cost of one microneedling session is $350. This fee includes a complimentary aftercare package worth $100. Discounts are given for packages of 3 treatments.

Schedule an acne consultation

Craig Singer MD Dermatology is located at 31000 Telegraph Rd., Suite 260, Bingham Farms, MI 48025. Call (248) 792-3785 to schedule a consultation.

Sources

  1.  Alster TS And Graham PM. Microneedling: A review and practical guide. Derm surgery 2017; 0:1 – 8
  2. Hogan S et. al. Microneedling: a new approach for treating textural abnormalities and scars. Seminars in cutaneous medicine and surgery volume 30: 6: December 2017
  3. Sharad J. Combination of Microneedling and glycolic acid peels for the treatment of acne scars in dark skin. Journal of cosmetic dermatology 2011:10:317 – 323
  4. Fabbrocini G. Collagen induction therapy for the treatment of upper lip wrinkles. Journal of dermatological treatment 2012; 23:144 – 155

Patient testimonials

4.9

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HOUR Detroit Top Doc

Recognized dermatologist

Dr. Craig Singer, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Acne Center of Michigan

About Craig Singer MD Dermatology

Located in Bingham Farms, Acne Center Of Michigan was founded by Dr. Craig Singer, a board-certified dermatologist.

We specialize in the treatment of acne and acne scarring, offering numerous therapeutic options tailored to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Singer experienced significant acne when he was in college and has personal experience with his teenage children’s acne as well. He has helped thousands of patients look their best.

Acne Center of Michigan offers the most advanced acne treatments, drawing from both traditional and alternative approaches. Dermatologists across the region refer their most complex acne-scar cases to Dr. Singer, and patients travel from across Michigan, neighboring states, and Canada for his care.

HOUR Detroit Magazine Top Docs award

Board-Certified

Dermatologist

Thousands of patients

Helped look their best

American Board of Dermatology
American Board of Physician Specialties
University of Pennsylvania
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
The Skin Cancer Foundation
Society for Pediatric Dermatology
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery