Book Us (720) 722-6306

Microneedling Overview

A Published Researcher in Tissue Repair, Now Treating Your Scars

At Thompson Facial Plastics, microneedling is built on the same knowledge of skin healing that Dr. Thompson uses in surgery. He is double board-certified in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and he regularly performs scar revision and facial reconstruction. His interest in how skin repairs itself goes back to his training. Dr. Thompson co-authored published research in The Laryngoscope on tissue repair and presented research on skin healing at regional medical meetings. That background helps him choose the right depth, device, and treatment series for your skin, so your results look like a healthier version of you.

Woman with beautiful skin looks deeply into the camera in a studio shoot. Her glowing skin represents the potential results of microneedling in Denver with Denver Facial Plastics

What Is Microneedling and How Does It Work?

Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a medical-grade device with very fine needles to create tiny, controlled channels in the skin.

Each treatment sets off a chain of events beneath the surface:

  • Controlled micro-injuries: The device creates thousands of tiny channels at depths tailored to each area of your face.
  • A natural repair response: Your body treats these channels as small wounds and sends signals to begin rebuilding.
  • New collagen and elastin: Your skin produces fresh collagen and elastin, the proteins that give skin its strength and bounce.
  • Gradual remodeling: Over the following weeks, the new collagen helps the skin look smoother, firmer, and more even.

Microneedling is also backed by federal review. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the agency has cleared microneedling devices to improve the appearance of facial acne scars and facial wrinkles in adults 22 and older.

Skin Concerns Microneedling Can Improve

Microneedling in Denver can improve a wide range of skin concerns, especially those related to texture and scarring.

Dr. Thompson commonly recommends it for:

  • Acne scars, particularly shallow, rolling, and boxcar scars
  • Surgical and injury scars that have fully healed
  • Fine lines and early wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, and forehead
  • Rough or uneven texture and enlarged-looking pores
  • Sun damage and dullness, a common concern under Colorado's strong sun
  • Crepey skin on the face and neck

Research supports these uses. A Boston University School of Medicine review of 33 studies found improvements in acne scar appearance across all studies, as well as increased patient satisfaction when microneedling was combined with another therapy

Banner media

Microneedling Benefits

  • Natural results: Improvement builds gradually from your own collagen.
  • Minimal downtime: Most patients return to normal routines within a day or two.
  • Suitable for many skin tones: The American Academy of Dermatology notes that microneedling is safe for all skin tones when performed properly.
  • Customizable depth: Treatment can be adjusted for delicate areas or deeper scars.
  • Pairs easily: Microneedling works well alongside PRF, peels, and injectables.

Is Microneedling Safe? Side Effects to Know

Professional microneedling is considered a safe, well-tolerated treatment when it is performed with a medical-grade device in a clinical setting. Most side effects are mild and short-lived.

Expected, temporary effects include:

  • Redness, warmth, or a flushed look for one to three days
  • Mild swelling or tightness
  • Light flaking or dryness as the skin renews

Less commonly, patients may notice small bruises, a breakout, or temporary darkening of the skin, which the American Academy of Dermatology notes can appear on darker skin tones right after treatment. Careful screening, appropriate needle depth, and diligent aftercare keep these risks low, and Dr. Thompson will check in on how your skin is healing.

Banner media

Why Professional Microneedling Differs From At-Home Rollers

At-home rollers are not the same as in-office microneedling. The FDA has not authorized any microneedling medical device for over-the-counter sale.

The AAD also cautions that at-home microneedling can irritate the skin and, if needles pierce it, spread viruses such as warts or cold sores. A sterile, physician-guided treatment avoids those pitfalls while reaching the depth needed for real collagen remodeling.

RF Microneedling vs. Traditional Microneedling

RF microneedling combines radiofrequency energy with traditional microneedling. At Thompson Facial Plastics, Dr. Thompson will recommend the best option based on your goals and preferred downtime.
Traditional microneedling creates micro-channels that trigger collagen production. It is an excellent choice for texture, pores, mild scarring, and an overall healthy glow.

RF microneedling delivers gentle heat through the needles into deeper layers of the skin. This added energy encourages greater collagen remodeling and skin tightening, making it well-suited for laxity, deeper wrinkles, and more pronounced acne scars. The FDA has cleared RF microneedling devices for treating facial wrinkles, and the AAD notes that RF microneedling is safe for all skin tones.

 

Traditional Microneedling

RF Microneedling

Best for

Texture, pores, mild scars, dullness

Laxity, deeper wrinkles, deeper acne scars

How it works

Micro-channels stimulate collagen

Micro-channels plus radiofrequency heat

Typical downtime

1 to 3 days of redness

A few days, depending on settings

Results

Smoother, brighter skin

Added firmness and tightening
Banner media
Woman touching the side of her face

Microneedling With PRF

Adding PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) to microneedling combines collagen induction with growth factors drawn from a small sample of your own blood.

After microneedling, the PRF can be applied to the skin. Many patients choose this add-on when they want extra support for healing, under-eye texture, or overall rejuvenation.

Dr. Thompson will let you know whether PRF makes sense for your plan. You can learn more on our PRF injections page.

Microneedling vs. Chemical Peels, Laser Resurfacing, and BBL

Microneedling, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, and BBL all improve the skin, but each works best for different concerns. Here is how they compare:

Treatment

How it works

Best for

Typical downtime

Microneedling

Micro-channels trigger collagen production

Acne scars, texture, fine lines

1 to 3 days

Chemical peels

A solution removes damaged outer layers

Uneven tone, sun damage, dullness

None to about a week, depending on depth

Laser resurfacing

Laser energy resurfaces and stimulates the skin

Deeper wrinkles, significant sun damage, scars

Varies by laser and intensity

BBL broadband light

Light energy targets pigment and redness

Sun spots, redness, broken capillaries

Minimal

Many patients do best with a combination. A review published in Cureus notes that microneedling is less invasive than many laser treatments and is often preferred for patients with darker skin tones. Dr. Thompson will help you choose the right mix for your skin.

Are You a Good Candidate for Microneedling?

You may be a good candidate for microneedling in Denver if you are an adult in good general health who wants to improve scarring, texture, or fine lines without surgery.

Good candidates are comfortable with gradual improvement and are willing to protect their skin from the sun during healing.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, treatment should wait until a tan, sunburn, skin infection, or active breakouts have cleared. Dr. Thompson will also ask about recent acne medications, a history of cold sores, and any skin conditions before recommending treatment.

Background media
Doctor Thompson wearing doctor's coat.

Why Choose Dr. Thompson for Microneedling in Denver?

Patients choose Dr. Thompson because they want a physician's judgment behind a treatment that is often offered without one. His qualifications include:

  • Double board certification in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • AAFPRS fellowship training. Dr. Thompson was one of only 49 surgeons in the country accepted into an AAFPRS-sponsored fellowship, where he trained under Dr. Stephen Smith at Smith Facial Plastics and The Ohio State University.
  • Hands-on scar and reconstructive expertise, including scar revision, skin cancer reconstruction, and facial trauma care at hospitals throughout the Denver Metro Area
  • Membership in the Triological Society, an academic society focused on advancing otolaryngology
  • A full menu of complementary treatments, from PRF and chemical peels to laser resurfacing, so your plan is based on what your skin needs

Just as important is how patients feel during their visit. Dr. Thompson listens closely, sets realistic expectations, and makes sure you understand each step. Learn more about his background on his bio page.

AMA Logo
Trilogical Society logo
AAFPRS Logo
American Academy of Otoloryoncology - Head and neck surgery
abo logo

Testimonial

"I highly recommend Dr. Thompson without hesitation. From the moment I walked into the office, I was greeted by a warm and friendly staff. They took the time to thoroughly explain the procedure, ensuring I felt fully informed. Dr. Thompson is incredibly attentive, always making sure you're not only satisfied with the results but also have realistic expectations. I would absolutely recommend him and his office to all my friends and family." 

Jessica G.

What to Expect Before, During, and After

Microneedling at Thompson Facial Plastics follows a clear, comfortable process from your first conversation to your final results.

Your Consultation

The consultation begins with an assessment of your skin and a discussion of your desired changes. Dr. Thompson will review your medical history and skincare routine before recommending traditional microneedling, RF microneedling, or another suitable option. Some patients may receive a brief skin preparation routine to follow before their first session. The cost of microneedling varies from patient to patient. Several factors shape your total:

  • Type of treatment: RF microneedling typically costs more than traditional microneedling because it adds radiofrequency energy.
  • Treatment area: Treating the face alone usually costs less than treating the face, neck, and chest together.
  • Add-ons: Options such as PRF add to the cost of each session.
  • Number of sessions: Most plans include a series of three to four treatments, and deeper scars may need more.

You will receive a personalized quote, and our team can review payment and financing options with you.

Treatment

Most microneedling sessions take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area treated:

  • Cleansing: Your skin is thoroughly cleansed to remove oil and makeup.
  • Numbing: A topical numbing cream is applied for comfort.
  • Treatment: The device is gently passed over the skin at a depth specific to each area. Most patients feel light pressure or a prickling sensation.
  • Soothing care: Calming products are applied, and you go home with aftercare instructions.

Aftercare and Recovery

Recovery after microneedling is typically quick. Your skin may look flushed and feel warm, much like a mild sunburn, for one to three days. Many patients return to work the next day.

To support healing, Dr. Thompson typically recommends:

  • Using only gentle cleansers and the products he approves for the first few days
  • Skipping makeup for at least 24 hours
  • Avoiding heavy sweating, saunas, and swimming for a couple of days
  • Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and limiting sun exposure

Sun protection matters even more in the Mile High City. The EPA advises limiting sun exposure, especially at higher altitudes, where the atmosphere filters less UV radiation. Freshly treated skin is more sensitive, so daily sunscreen helps protect your results.

Microneedling results build gradually as your body produces new collagen:

  • Days 1 to 3: Redness and mild sensitivity fade.
  • Week 1: Skin often looks brighter and feels smoother.
  • Weeks 4 to 6: Collagen remodeling becomes more visible, and your next session is typically scheduled.
  • After a full series: Texture, scars, and fine lines show their most noticeable improvement.

Most patients benefit from a series of three to four sessions spaced four to six weeks apart, with periodic maintenance afterward. Deeper acne scars may need more sessions.

Background media

Treatments That Pair Well With Microneedling

Microneedling pairs well with treatments that target movement, volume, and pigment, which collagen induction alone does not address. Popular pairings at our Denver practice include:

  • PRF injections: Your own growth factors support healing and rejuvenation.
  • BOTOX: Relaxes the muscles behind forehead lines, frown lines, and crow's feet while microneedling refines the skin's surface.
  • Facial fillers: Restore volume in the cheeks, lips, and smile lines.
  • Chemical peels: Even out tone and brighten the complexion between microneedling sessions.
  • BBL broadband light: Targets sunspots and redness that microneedling may not fully address.
  • Medical-grade skin care: Helps protect and extend your results.

Dr. Thompson will time each treatment so that your skin can fully heal between steps.

Skin Rejuvenation Resources From Thompson Facial Plastics

Explore these articles from Dr. Thompson's team to learn more about improving skin texture, scars, and tone:

Banner media

Microneedling FAQs

Does microneedling hurt?

How long do microneedling results last?

How many microneedling sessions will I need?

Can microneedling treat acne scars?

Is microneedling safe for darker skin tones?

When can I wear makeup after microneedling?

Does microneedling hurt?

Microneedling is generally well tolerated by most patients. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand, and most people feel only light pressure or prickling.

How long do microneedling results last?

Collagen built during a treatment series can keep improving your skin for months. Periodic maintenance sessions, daily sunscreen, and good skin care help results last longer.

How many microneedling sessions will I need?

Most patients do well with three to four sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. Deeper scars may need more, and Dr. Thompson will build a schedule around your goals.

Can microneedling treat acne scars?

Acne scars are one of the most common reasons patients choose microneedling. Shallow, rolling scars tend to respond especially well, and RF microneedling may help with deeper scars.

Is microneedling safe for darker skin tones?

Microneedling is considered safe for all skin tones when performed properly, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Dr. Thompson adjusts depth and aftercare to protect even pigment.

When can I wear makeup after microneedling?

Dr. Thompson generally recommends waiting at least 24 hours before applying makeup so the micro-channels can close.

Schedule Your Microneedling Consultation in Denver

Smoother, clearer, healthier-looking skin can start with a single conversation. Dr. Thompson brings double board certification, fellowship training, and a surgeon's understanding of skin healing to every microneedling plan. Call Thompson Facial Plastics at (720) 722-6306 or request a consultation online to learn how microneedling in Denver can help you feel confident in your skin.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Outcomes, risks, and suitability vary from patient to patient.

Sources

Contact us media

Book NowSchedule a Consultation

If you’ve long wished to make a change, why wait any longer? We're here to help. Give us a call today to begin your journey to a new you.

Book Now

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (303) 667-1474.
Contact Us