Once breakouts have settled, many people are left with marks and uneven texture that can feel harder to shift than the spots themselves. Microneedling is one of the most researched ways to improve the look of acne marks, and it's something you can work on gradually at home. This guide explains how it helps, which marks respond best, and how to set up a routine.
The short answer: microneedling encourages your skin's natural renewal, which can gradually soften the look of rolling and boxcar acne marks and smooth uneven texture. Expect to need 3 to 6 sessions, about four weeks apart, before changes are clear. Only microneedle once breakouts have settled, and work around any new spots.
Why acne leaves marks
When a breakout heals, the skin sometimes lays down collagen unevenly. If too little collagen forms, you're left with a small dip or indentation. If the area stays discoloured, you're left with a flat red, pink or brown mark. These are two different things, and they respond differently.
Types of acne marks
| Type | What it looks like | How it responds to microneedling |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling | Soft, wave-like dips with sloping edges | Usually responds best |
| Boxcar | Wider dips with sharper edges | Often responds well, especially shallower ones |
| Icepick | Narrow, deep pinpoints | Harder to improve at home; may need professional help |
| Flat red or brown marks | Discolouration with no dip | Often fade with time and SPF; microneedling can help even tone |
| Raised marks | Thickened, raised areas | Don't microneedle. Speak to a dermatologist. |
How microneedling helps
The fine needles create tiny channels in the skin, prompting it to renew itself and produce fresh collagen. Over a course of sessions, this new collagen can help lift and smooth indented areas, so marks look shallower and catch the light less. It also helps refine overall texture, which makes skin look smoother even where marks remain. Acne marks are one of the most studied uses of microneedling, and research consistently shows gradual improvement over several sessions. See our clinical studies page and Does Microneedling Work?
Setting realistic expectations
- Results are gradual. Most people see clearer changes after 3 to 6 sessions.
- Improvement, not erasure. Marks usually look softer and shallower rather than disappearing completely.
- Deeper marks are harder. Icepick and very deep boxcar marks may need professional treatment.
- Collagen keeps maturing for months, so results can continue to improve after your last session.
Your at-home routine
Choose your cartridge
- 9-pin: for individual marks and small areas
- 12-pin: the all-rounder for full-face texture
- 24-pin: wider areas like the cheeks
Many people use a 12-pin for the whole face and a 9-pin to focus on areas with more marks. See our cartridge guide.
Set your depth
On the face, use 0.6mm. Deeper isn't better at home; it just means more irritation and a longer recovery.
Step by step
- Check that breakouts have settled. Never needle over active spots.
- Pause retinoids and exfoliating acids a few days before.
- Cleanse, disinfect your hands, pen and skin, and let everything dry.
- Attach a new, sealed cartridge and set 0.6mm and a low speed.
- Apply hyaluronic acid as a glide.
- Glide in small, overlapping strokes, horizontally, vertically and diagonally. A few passes per section is enough.
- Finish with more hyaluronic acid and a fragrance-free moisturiser.
For a full walkthrough, see Your First Session.
How often
About once every four weeks on the face, for a course of 3 to 6 sessions. Then move to occasional maintenance.
Supporting your results
- Wear SPF daily. Sun exposure can darken marks and slow progress.
- Keep breakouts under control with a consistent routine, and speak to a pharmacist or GP about ongoing spots.
- Reintroduce retinoids 72 hours after each session, if you use them.
- Don't pick spots, as this makes marks more likely.
When to see a professional
Consider professional advice if you have deep icepick or boxcar marks, raised marks, ongoing breakouts, or if you've used isotretinoin in the last six months. Clinic microneedling, sometimes combined with other treatments, may suit deeper marks better.
Working on texture with Olapen
Olapen lets you combine precision and coverage in one routine: a 12-pin cartridge for overall texture and a 9-pin cartridge for individual marks, all at the right depth for the face. Every cartridge is sterile, individually sealed and single use. Not sure where to start? Get your personalised routine.
Frequently asked questions
Can microneedling remove acne marks completely?
It usually makes them look softer and shallower rather than removing them completely.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people follow a course of 3 to 6 sessions, about four weeks apart.
Can I microneedle with active acne?
No. Wait until breakouts have settled, and work around any new spots.
Which cartridge is best for acne marks?
A 12-pin for overall texture and a 9-pin for individual marks.
Will microneedling help red acne marks?
Flat red or brown marks often fade over time with daily SPF. Microneedling can help skin tone look more even.
The bottom line
Microneedling is one of the best-studied ways to improve the look of acne marks and textured skin. Start once breakouts have settled, use 0.6mm with the right cartridge, space sessions about four weeks apart, protect your skin with SPF, and give it time. Gradual, consistent sessions add up.
Microneedling and nanoneedling are cosmetic procedures. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition. If you have a skin condition or any concerns, speak to a healthcare professional.