Skin
Acne scars: which treatment options are there?
Pitted scars, redness and dark marks left by acne aren't treated the same way. We explain the options for each type of scar and why timing matters when planning.
7 min read
Microneedling and Dermapen in Istanbul
For acne scarring, enlarged pores and uneven texture, microneedling is performed with needle depth and session plan adjusted to your skin. At a consultation in Istanbul, Dr. Nil Yazıcı assesses your scar type and agrees a suitable plan with you; international patients can start online.
Microneedling (often called Dermapen) uses a fine-needle device to create controlled micro-channels in the skin, aiming to support the skin's own repair process and collagen production. It is usually planned as several sessions 4–6 weeks apart for acne scarring, pores and uneven texture. In Istanbul, Dr. Nil Yazıcı sets the needle depth, and decides whether to combine it with PRP, according to your skin structure and scar type.
Why a physician’s assessment matters
Why physician control matters in microneedling
The results and safety of microneedling depend on assessing scar type correctly, choosing the right depth for each area and using sterile technique. Dr. Nil Yazıcı determines at examination whether your scars are likely to benefit from microneedling and whether to combine it with PRP or a peel; if something such as active acne needs treating first, that comes first. This way, sessions are planned around a realistic goal.
About Dr. Nil YazıcıWho may consider it?
Microneedling may be considered if you want to improve skin texture and can commit to a course of several sessions.
- You have rolling or boxcar scars from acne that is no longer active
- Your skin has enlarged pores or a rough, uneven texture
- You are looking for an overall improvement in skin quality
- You have both texture and colour changes left by acne
- You have started to notice fine lines and mild loss of firmness
What can it help with?
- Acne scarring
- Can help soften the appearance of scars, especially rolling and shallow boxcar scars. The response is more limited in deep, narrow (ice-pick) scars. For a broader overview, see our acne scars page.
- Enlarged pores
- With regular sessions, the skin surface may look firmer and pores less visible.
- Rough, uneven texture
- Can help the skin surface look smoother and more even.
- Dull, tired-looking skin
- Can be used alongside other treatments in plans aimed at overall skin quality.
Treatment areas
Dermapen facial treatment
A pen-type device is used across the whole face, with depth adjusted by area: deeper on scar-dense areas such as the cheeks, more superficial on thin skin such as around the eyes.
Microneedling with PRP
Plasma prepared from your own blood is applied during or after microneedling. It may be chosen for suitable patients to support the repair process; details on our PRP page.
Neck
Can be used on the neck for texture and fine lines, with more superficial settings than on the face.
Combined texture plans
If acne scars and marks coexist, microneedling and chemical peels can be sequenced in separate sessions.
How it works
Consultation and scar assessment
Scar type and depth, any active acne, the medicines you take (especially isotretinoin), your wound-healing history and any history of cold sores are assessed.
Preparation
The skin is cleansed and numbing cream is applied and left to work. The skin is then prepared with an antiseptic.
Microneedling session
Treatment is performed with a sterile, single-use needle cartridge at a depth adjusted for each area. If planned, PRP or a suitable serum is applied at this stage.
Aftercare and follow-up
Soothing care is recommended at the end of the session. At the next session, healing and response are reviewed and the depth and plan are updated.
Sessions and treatment plan
How many sessions, and how far apart?
In most plans, microneedling is done as 3–6 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart. Acne scarring usually needs more sessions, while general texture and pore goals may need fewer. Because the collagen response takes time, the result is best assessed a few months after the final session; one or two maintenance sessions a year can be planned if needed.
What to expect, and when
First 24–72 hours
Sunburn-like redness, mild swelling and tightness are possible; these usually settle within 1–3 days.
Days 3–7
Mild dryness and fine flaking may occur. Make-up can usually be worn after 24 hours.
Weeks 4–6
Early improvement in texture may be noticeable; the next session is planned around this time.
3–6 months after the final session
Changes from collagen renewal can be assessed more clearly. The response varies from person to person.
Aftercare
After microneedling, the skin barrier is temporarily sensitive; how you care for it in the first days directly affects healing.
- Do not wear make-up for the first 24 hours, and try not to touch your skin.
- Use only a gentle cleanser and the moisturiser your physician recommends.
- Pause active ingredients such as retinoids, acids and vitamin C for a few days.
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and avoid direct sun for the first days.
- Stay away from saunas, Turkish baths (hammam), swimming pools and intense exercise for 48–72 hours.
- Keep your pillowcase clean, and do not squeeze any spots that appear.
Limits and important considerations
Microneedling is generally well tolerated when done on the right patient with the right technique, but it is not suitable for everyone.
- It is not performed with active inflamed acne, a cold sore or an infection in the treatment area.
- It is usually postponed while taking isotretinoin and for a period after stopping it; the timing is discussed with your physician.
- With a tendency to keloids or abnormal scarring, it is considered with great care or not recommended.
- Bleeding disorders or the use of blood thinners must always be shared with your physician.
- It is generally not recommended during pregnancy.
- On its own it has limited effect on deep, narrow (ice-pick) scars; scars should not be expected to disappear completely.
- In darker skin types, settings are chosen carefully because of the risk of post-inflammatory darkening.
Microneedling for patients visiting Istanbul
Redness usually settles within 1–3 days, so a single session fits comfortably into a few days in Istanbul. Because a course typically means 3–6 sessions 4–6 weeks apart, it suits patients who visit Istanbul regularly or can plan return trips; discuss this at an online consultation before you travel. Between visits, your skin's response can be reviewed remotely. Interpreter support, airport transfer and accommodation help are explained on our international patients page.
See how the international patient process worksFrequently asked questions
Is microneedling the same as Dermapen?
Dermapen is the popular name for the pen-type devices used for microneedling. The method itself is microneedling: fine needles create controlled micro-channels in the skin.
Does microneedling hurt?
Numbing cream is applied beforehand, so most people find it tolerable. You may feel more in areas close to bone.
Will my acne scars disappear completely?
Microneedling can help soften the appearance of scars, especially rolling and shallow ones, but scars should not be expected to disappear completely. The response is more limited for deep, narrow scars. Realistic expectations are set together at your examination.
How many sessions will I need, and when will I see results?
Most plans involve 3–6 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart. Early changes may be noticeable within a few weeks, while results from collagen renewal are assessed more clearly 3–6 months after the final session.
Should it be combined with PRP?
It is not essential. In suitable patients, PRP can be combined with microneedling to support the repair process. The decision is made with your physician based on your scar type, expectations and health.
When can I go back to work or travel?
Most people return to work the next day. Redness usually lasts 1–3 days; allow a few days' margin before an important event, and plan to keep your skin out of direct sun during your journey.
Can I have microneedling while I have active spots?
No. Treating over active, inflamed acne can spread infection. The acne is brought under control first, and a dermatology assessment is recommended if needed.
Related treatments
- PRP & PRFPlasma prepared from your own blood to support skin quality on the face and thinning hair on the scalp.
- Chemical PeelSuperficial or medium-depth peels for pigmentation, rough texture and dull skin, chosen for your skin type and the season.
- Skin RejuvenationA physician-planned programme that combines several methods in the right order for texture, pores, fine lines and elasticity.
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Book an assessment for Microneedling (Dermapen)
Tell us what you would like to achieve and share your medical history, and we will assess together whether this treatment is right for you. Travelling from abroad? We can start with an online consultation.