Medically reviewed by Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD | Board-Certified Dermatologist | Founder, The Dermatology and Laser Group, New York City | Faculty, Mount Sinai Department of Dermatology
Last Medically Reviewed: July 20, 2026

Microneedling looks deceptively simple — a device glides across the skin, creating thousands of microscopic channels. What actually determines your result is something you can’t see: the exact depth those needles reach, in each zone of your face.

Skin thickness changes dramatically from your forehead to your cheeks to the delicate skin around your eyes. Go too shallow and you get little more than an exfoliation. Go too deep in the wrong area and you actually diminish results and create unnecessary irritation.

“Microneedling is often treated as a throwaway med spa procedure — same settings for every face, every concern,” says Dr. Arash Akhavan. “We approach it scientifically. I map the treatment depths to your anatomy and your specific goal, whether that’s acne scarring, fine lines, or overall skin quality. That’s how you get the best efficacy with the fewest side effects.”

That physician-level precision — from a Castle Connolly Top Doctor of 13+ consecutive years and Mount Sinai dermatology faculty member — is why patients across Manhattan choose The Dermatology and Laser Group for microneedling in NYC, and why so many pair it with PRP or exosomes to amplify their results.

Microneedling — also called collagen induction therapy — is a minimally invasive treatment that uses ultra-fine, medical-grade needles to create thousands of controlled micro-channels in the skin, prompting your body to produce fresh collagen and elastin.

Think of it as flipping your skin’s repair switch on purpose. Each microscopic channel is far too small to scar, but your skin doesn’t know that — it responds the way it does to any injury: rushing in growth factors, building new collagen, and laying down healthier tissue. Multiply that by thousands of channels per session, and you get skin that is measurably smoother, firmer, and more even.

The science — called percutaneous collagen induction — unfolds in three phases:

Trigger (day of treatment). The FDA-cleared SkinStylus device creates precise micro-channels at depths Dr. Akhavan maps for each zone of your face — typically deeper where scarring lives, shallower where skin is thin. This controlled injury releases growth factors immediately.
Regenerate (weeks 1–4). Fibroblasts — your skin’s collagen factories — migrate to the treated areas and begin producing new collagen and elastin. Skin starts to look brighter and feel smoother.
Remodel (months 1–6). The new collagen matures and reorganizes. This is when acne scars visibly soften, pores refine, and firmness builds. Each session in your series compounds the last.

Because the treatment relies on your own biology rather than heat, light, or injected materials, results look natural — your skin, rebuilt — and it is safe across all skin tones. The evidence base is real, too: a 2014 randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Dermatology documented visible improvement in acne scarring after a series of needling treatments.

Your visit is simpler than you might expect:

Numbing (about 10–20 minutes). A prescription-strength topical numbing cream is applied, making the treatment very tolerable — most patients describe a light sandpaper sensation, not pain.
Treatment (about 10 minutes). We treat zone by zone at the depths mapped for your skin and goals. If you’ve chosen PRP, your blood is drawn and spun during your numbing time; exosomes are prepared in advance.
Serum application. PRP or AnteAGE exosomes are applied as the micro-channels are made, where absorption is at its peak.
Home the same hour. You’ll leave looking like you have a mild-to-moderate sunburn — that’s the expected endpoint, not a complication.

Afterward: redness fades over 1–3 days for most patients (up to 5 with deeper acne-scar protocols). Most patients treated on a Friday are presentable for Monday meetings. You’ll follow a simple protocol — gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, no makeup until the following day, and diligent SPF. Skin often looks “lit from within” by the end of week one; the deeper remodeling continues for months.

One thing patients are often surprised to learn: microneedling is a collagen play, not a quick fix. Your skin remodels over weeks, which is why results look better at month three than at week one — and why they last.

At our Manhattan office, the most common concerns we treat are:

Acne scars — one of the best-studied uses of microneedling
Fine lines and wrinkles — especially early etched-in lines of the cheeks, forehead, and around the mouth
Enlarged pores and rough texture — the “glass skin” smoothing effect microneedling is famous for
Hyperpigmentation and melasma — a heat-free option when lasers are too risky
Stretch marks — on the body
Overall skin quality — firmness, bounce, and glow that build over a treatment series

Two regenerative upgrades take results further:

1. Microneedling with PRP. Growth factors concentrated from your own blood — drawn and spun the same visit — are applied over the fresh micro-channels, accelerating healing and amplifying collagen production. This is the treatment behind the famous “vampire facial,” done the medical way: controlled depths, sterile technique, physician oversight.

2. Microneedling with AnteAGE Exosomes. Think of exosomes as tiny messenger packages — microscopic vesicles your cells use to tell each other start repairing, start producing collagen. AnteAGE exosomes deliver billions of these signals with a more concentrated, consistent growth-factor profile than PRP, no blood draw required. For patients chasing maximum rejuvenation, this is the premium option.

“I steer patients between PRP and exosomes based on their biology and their goal, not the price tag,” notes Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD. “Both are excellent. The right answer depends on your skin.”

Who is — and isn’t — a candidate: Most healthy adults are excellent candidates, and microneedling is one of the few collagen treatments safe and effective for every skin tone, because it uses no heat or light energy. Microneedling is not recommended for patients who are pregnant, have an active skin infection, cold sore outbreak, or open lesions in the treatment area, have a history of keloid scarring, or have recently used isotretinoin (Accutane) — timing is individualized at your consultation. And if your primary concern is skin laxity on the body rather than texture or scarring, Dr. Akhavan may instead recommend Potenza RF microneedling, which adds radiofrequency heat for deeper tightening.

At The Dermatology and Laser Group in New York City, microneedling with PRP is $850 per session or $2,295 for a package of three, and microneedling with AnteAGE exosomes is $1,000 per session or $2,745 for a package of three. These prices are for the face; pricing for the neck, chest, body, and larger treatment plans can be provided — simply inquire.

A few things worth knowing about how we price:

Every treatment is physician-designed. Your fee reflects a depth-mapped medical treatment from a board-certified dermatologist’s practice — not a one-setting spa pass.
Packages match the science. Collagen building is cumulative; a series of three sessions spaced about 4–6 weeks apart is the evidence-based sweet spot for most concerns, which is why our packages are built around it.
No surprise upsells. PRP or exosomes are included in the prices above — they are the treatment, not an add-on at checkout.

Face pricing shown; neck, chest, body, and larger packages quoted at consultation. Individual results vary.
Feature	Microneedling + PRP	Microneedling + Exosomes
Growth factor source	Your own blood (spun)	Lab-purified (AnteAGE)
Blood draw	Yes, same visit	None
Potency	Varies by individual	Concentrated, consistent
Best for	Scars, overall renewal	Maximum rejuvenation
Downtime	1–3 days of redness	1–3 days of redness
Typical series	3 sessions, 4–6 wks apart	3 sessions, 4–6 wks apart
Single session (face)	$850	$1,000
3-session package (face)	$2,295	$2,745

Is microneedling painful?

How much does microneedling cost in NYC?

How many microneedling sessions will I need?

How long do microneedling results last?

What is the difference between PRP and exosome microneedling?

Is microneedling safe for darker skin tones?

What is the downtime after microneedling, and when can I wear makeup?

How is microneedling different from RF microneedling?

Can I get the same results with an at-home dermaroller?

Who should not get microneedling?

At The Dermatology and Laser Group, we offer microneedling as a powerful and minimally invasive solution for those looking to rejuvenate their skin. This treatment helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and other skin imperfections, promoting a smoother and more youthful complexion. Whether used alone or combined with advanced serums like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), or AnteAGE exosomes, microneedling is a versatile treatment that can be customized to meet your unique skin care needs.

Safe for All Skin Tones

Microneedling is considered safe for all skin tones because it does not rely on heat or light energy. Instead, microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries, stimulating the body's natural healing process and promoting even collagen production without damaging the skin's surface.
Minimal Downtime

When performed properly, microneelding has minimal downtime, causing only 1-3 days of pink to red skin. Old fashioned methods of microneedling that would leave people bloody and would have prolonged downtime have been shown to be detrimental to the skin.
Versatile Treatment

Microneedling is a versatile treatment that can be customized for various skin concerns, from rejuvenating the skin with PRP or exosomes to addressing discoloration using agents like tranexamic acid. This adaptability makes it an effective option for a wide range of skin issues, promoting overall skin health and radiance.

As a faculty member at Mount Sinai’s Department of Dermatology and the founder of The Dermatology and Laser Group, Dr. Akhavan is a leader in cosmetic dermatology. His deep understanding of facial anatomy and aesthetics ensures natural, rejuvenating results. He has been recognized as a New York Magazine Top Doctor and awarded as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor every year for over a decade. Dr. Arash Akhavan has been providing expert microneedling treatments in New York City for more than a decade. With hundreds of five-star reviews, our practice is recognized for compassionate care, expertise, and consistently outstanding results. We invite you to read our patient testimonials to learn more about the experiences of those who have chosen The Dermatology and Laser Group for their microneedling treatments. Visit our Meet the Team page to find out more about why you should choose The Dermatology and Laser Group for your next cosmetic dermatology procedure.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves creating micro-injuries in the skin using a device with fine, sterile needles. These micro-injuries stimulate the skin's natural healing process, leading to increased collagen and elastin production. The result is firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin. It can effectively treat a variety of skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks, and uneven skin texture. With the addition of specific solutions it can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation, including melasma.

How Does Microneedling Work?

It works by harnessing the body’s natural healing response. As the tiny needles create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, the body responds by increasing collagen and elastin production to repair the damage. This process not only helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and scars but also improves skin texture and tone. Additionally, it enhances the absorption of topical serums and treatments, making it an ideal procedure to combine with PRP or exosome therapy for even more dramatic results.

What to Expect During a Treatment

A typical session at The Dermatology and Laser Group lasts about 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Before the procedure, a topical numbing cream is applied to ensure comfort. During the treatment, a microneedling device with fine needles is passed over the skin, creating tiny punctures. As this is happening, a solution is being applied to the skin and infused to the desired depth. Patients often describe the sensation as a mild tingling or prickling feeling. The depth of the needles can be adjusted based on your skin type and the specific concerns being treated.

PRP Microneedling

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) microneedling is an advanced version of traditional microneedling. After the process, your own blood is drawn, and the platelet rich layer is isolated using a centrifuge. This platelet rich layer is rich in growth factors that further stimulate collagen production and accelerate the healing process. When applied to the skin, PRP can enhance the overall results, leading to firmer, more radiant skin with reduced downtime.

Microneedling with Exosomes (AnteAGE Exosomes)

Exosomes are tiny, extracellular vesicles that play a crucial role in cell communication and regeneration. AnteAGE exosomes are derived from human bone marrow stem cells and umbilical cord cells and are packed with growth factors and cytokines that promote skin healing and rejuvenation. When combined with microneedling, AnteAGE exosomes are applied to the skin, where they penetrate deep into the dermis through the micro-channels created by the needles. This combination treatment accelerates the healing process, reduces inflammation, and enhances the production of collagen and elastin, leading to faster and more dramatic skin rejuvenation.

What to Expect After a Treatment

After a session, your skin may appear red and feel slightly warm, similar to a mild sunburn. These effects typically subside within a few hours to a day. Depending on the depth of the treatment, you may experience mild swelling or pinpoint bleeding, but these symptoms usually resolve quickly. It’s important to avoid sun exposure and use a gentle, hydrating skincare routine in the days following the treatment. The results develop gradually as collagen production increases, with full results developing over the course of months.

Microneedling is suitable for most skin types and tones. It is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to improve the appearance of:

Fine lines and wrinkles
Acne scars
Stretch marks
Uneven skin texture and tone
Enlarged pores

How Does Microneedling Compare to Other Cosmetic Treatments?

When considering skin rejuvenation procedures, it’s important to understand how microneedling compares to other popular treatments such as RF (radiofrequency) skin tightening, chemical peels, and dermal fillers. Each option offers unique benefits and is best suited for specific skin concerns and patient goals.

Microneedling vs. RF Skin Tightening

Traditional microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production for smoother, firmer skin. RF (radiofrequency) microneedling takes this a step further by delivering radiofrequency energy through the needles, which heats the deeper layers of the skin. This combination can lead to more pronounced skin tightening and rejuvenation, making RF microneedling especially effective for those seeking to address skin laxity in addition to texture and scars. While both treatments promote collagen production, RF microneedling may offer more dramatic results for tightening loose skin, whereas traditional microneedling focuses primarily on improving texture and reducing scars.

Microneedling vs. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate and remove damaged outer layers. This process can improve pigmentation issues, sun damage, and fine lines. Microneedling, on the other hand, works by stimulating the skin’s natural repair mechanisms from within, enhancing collagen and elastin without removing the skin’s surface. Chemical peels may result in more visible peeling and require longer downtime, depending on their strength. Microneedling typically has a shorter recovery period and is suitable for a wider range of skin tones, including those with darker complexions, who may be at higher risk of pigmentation changes from chemical peels.

Microneedling vs. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments designed to restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. They provide immediate results by physically filling in lines or hollow areas. In contrast, microneedling stimulates the body’s own collagen production for gradual, natural-looking improvements in skin texture, tone, and firmness. While fillers are ideal for addressing volume loss and deeper folds, microneedling is better suited for improving surface-level concerns such as fine lines, acne scars, and overall skin quality. These treatments are often complementary—microneedling can enhance skin texture, while fillers can restore youthful volume.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

The best treatment depends on your individual skin concerns, goals, and lifestyle preferences. Microneedling is a versatile option for those seeking natural collagen stimulation and minimal downtime. RF microneedling may be preferable for those with significant skin laxity, while chemical peels are effective for pigmentation and surface irregularities. Dermal fillers are the go-to choice for restoring facial volume and contour. During your consultation, we’ll help you determine which approach—or combination of treatments—will best achieve your desired results.