Why You Don’t Need to Fear Microneedling: Myths vs. Facts
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Microneedling is one of the most popular skincare treatments worldwide, with patients raving about its skin-rejuvenating effects! Despite its popularity, misconceptions and myths often make people hesitant to try this fantastic treatment.
At Toronto’s MD Skin Lab, we specialize in advanced skin treatments, including microneedling (with the optional addition of Exosomes) and PRP microneedling to help patients achieve smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin. If you’ve been curious about microneedling but hesitant due to things you’ve heard, our physician injectors and senior medical aestheticians are here to set the record straight.
Let’s separate fact from fiction and explain why microneedling is one of the most effective, safe, and minimally invasive skin treatments.
Myth #1: Microneedling is Painful
Fact: Microneedling is a well-tolerated treatment with minimal discomfort.
One of the biggest fears about microneedling is that it’s painful. While tiny needles sound intimidating, the reality is far less dramatic. At MD Skin Lab, we use a topical numbing cream before treatment to ensure maximum comfort. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild tingling or slight pressure rather than pain.
What to Expect:
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Numbing applied before the procedure makes it comfortable.
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A slight warming or scratching sensation during treatment.
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Minimal discomfort, similar to a mild sunburn, post-treatment.
For those with sensitive skin, we customize the depth and intensity of the treatment to ensure a comfortable experience.
Myth #2: Microneedling is Only for Wrinkles
Fact: Microneedling treats many skin concerns—including acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and enlarged pores. While microneedling is a fantastic anti-aging treatment, it does far more than just smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
At MD Skin Lab, we use microneedling to address:
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Acne Scars – Promotes collagen production to reduce scarring and uneven texture.
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Hyperpigmentation & Melasma – Helps fade dark spots and sun damage.
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Enlarged Pores – Tightens and refines pores by boosting collagen and elastin.
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Skin Laxity – Firms and lifts mild sagging skin.
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Dull Skin – Stimulates cell turnover for a brighter complexion.
Because microneedling enhances skin renewal, it benefits patients of all ages and skin types.
Myth #3: Microneedling Causes Skin Damage
Fact: Microneedling stimulates skin healing and collagen production, making skin healthier—not weaker. Many people worry that microneedling will damage their skin due to the use of tiny needles. However, microneedling is designed to trigger the body’s natural healing response—not harm it.
How It Works:
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The controlled micro-injuries stimulate collagen and elastin production, which helps the skin repair and rejuvenate itself.
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Unlike harsh lasers or deep peels, microneedling is gentle and safe for all skin tones, with no risk of hyperpigmentation.
The result? Stronger, firmer, and more resilient skin that looks healthier over time!
Myth #4: Microneedling Has a Long Downtime
Fact: Most patients experience minimal downtime—just mild redness for a day or two. Unlike aggressive resurfacing treatments, microneedling has a short recovery period.
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Immediately After Treatment: Skin may appear slightly red, similar to a mild sunburn.
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24-48 Hours Post-Treatment: Redness fades, and the skin starts to heal and glow.
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3-5 Days Post-Treatment: Any dryness or light peeling subsides, revealing brighter, smoother skin.
Most patients return to normal activities the next day—just avoid makeup and excessive sun exposure for 24 hours to protect the skin.
Myth #5: Microneedling Is Not Safe for Darker Skin Tones
Fact: Microneedling is safe for all skin tones—including darker complexions. Many resurfacing treatments, like certain lasers or chemical peels, pose a higher risk of hyperpigmentation in darker skin types.
However, microneedling does not use heat or aggressive exfoliation, making it a safe and effective option for all Fitzpatrick skin types.
At MD Skin Lab, we tailor the depth and intensity of microneedling based on each patient’s skin type to achieve optimal results without complications.
Myth #6: You Only Need One Microneedling Session for Results
Fact: Consistent treatments deliver the best long-term results. While some patients notice improvements after just one session, a series of treatments is recommended for significant, long-lasting changes.
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Mild Concerns (glow, pore size, early aging) – 3 sessions
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Hyperpigmentation or Acne Scars – 4-6 sessions
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Deep Wrinkles or Severe Scarring – 6+ sessions
At MD Skin Lab, we create a customized microneedling plan to meet your skin’s specific needs.
Myth #7: I Can Just Do Microneedling Myself at Home with a Roller
Fact: Professional microneedling delivers deeper, safer, and more effective results than at-home rollers. While at-home derma rollers are available, they do not provide the same level of precision, safety, or effectiveness as professional microneedling performed by trained experts.
At MD Skin Lab, we use the SkinPen, a specialized device with tiny, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This is a very safe and effective solution, specifically when administered by a senior aesthetician.
Now that we’ve busted some myths, let's break down each treatment to help you find the best one before booking your appointment at our Toronto medical clinic.
What is Microneedling with SkinPen?
Microneedling with SkinPen is a minimally invasive treatment designed to improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. Using a device with tiny, sterile needles, this treatment creates controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural collagen and elastin production. As the skin heals, it becomes smoother, firmer, and more radiant.
At MD Skin Lab, we use the SkinPen, an FDA and Health Canada-approved device known for its precision and safety. This treatment is ideal for reducing fine lines, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation and enhancing skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime.
What is Microneedling with Exosomes?
Microneedling with Exosomes is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that combines collagen-stimulating microneedling with the regenerative power of exosomes—tiny extracellular vesicles that enhance cellular communication and tissue repair. During the treatment, exosomes are applied to the skin after microneedling, allowing them to penetrate deep into the microchannels created by the SkinPen.
Together with growth factors, peptides, and stem-cell-derived molecules, exosomes boost collagen production, accelerate skin healing, and improve skin texture and tone. This treatment is ideal for patients looking to reduce fine lines, brighten dull skin, improve elasticity, and enhance skin hydration, all with minimal downtime.
What Is Microneedling with PRP?
Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) takes skin rejuvenation to the next level by combining collagen-stimulating microneedling with the healing power of PRP. PRP is derived from a small sample of your own blood, which is processed to extract growth factors that accelerate skin healing and regeneration.
During the treatment, PRP is applied to the skin after microneedling, allowing it to penetrate deep into the microchannels, boosting collagen production, improving skin elasticity, and enhancing overall skin renewal. This treatment is especially beneficial for acne scars, fine lines, and dull or uneven skin.
Book Your Microneedling Appointment at Toronto’s Top Medical Clinic
Microneedling is one of the most effective, minimally invasive treatments for skin rejuvenation, offering collagen stimulation, scar reduction, and an overall glow—with little to no downtime.
At MD Skin Lab, our senior aestheticians ensure a comfortable, safe, and customized experience for every patient. If you’ve been hesitant to try microneedling, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you toward glowing, healthy skin. Book your appointment today – to experience the benefits of microneedling for yourself!