Acne scarring is one of the most frustrating skin concerns we support clients with in-clinic. You can be doing all the right things – using good skincare, staying consistent – and still feel like your skin just isn’t improving.
So the question becomes: what actually works for acne scarring?
One of the most effective, long-term treatments we recommend in-clinic is skin needling (also known as microneedling or collagen induction therapy).
What Causes Acne Scarring?
Some acne scars are textural (like indents or uneven skin), while other scarring can be pigment-based (those red or brown marks that linger long after a breakout).
True acne scarring happens when inflammation damages the deeper layers of the skin, affecting collagen and leaving behind uneven texture.
Unfortunately, this isn’t something most over-the-counter skincare can fully correct. This is where in-clinic treatments become really important in starting to truly make a difference in the way your skin looks and feels.
How Skin Needling Helps Treat Acne Scarring
Skin needling works by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin using a medical-grade device with ultra-fine needles.
It sounds intense! But, it’s a fairly gentle treatment to undergo, and what it’s actually doing is triggering your skin’s natural healing response.
This process stimulates the production of:
- Collagen (for structure and firmness)
- Elastin (for bounce and resilience)
Over time, this helps to:
- Smooth uneven texture
- Soften the appearance of scars
- Improve overall skin clarity
- Strengthen the skin from within
Rather than masking the problem, skin needling helps your skin rebuild itself.
What Does the Treatment Feel Like?
This is usually the first question clients ask us.
Most clients describe skin needling as:
- mildly scratchy
- slightly warm
- completely manageable
At Nina Coombs Skin & Brows, we don’t use numbing cream for this treatment, as it can interfere with long-term results. Instead, we work gently and check in with you throughout so you feel comfortable and supported.
The treatment itself is relatively quick, and most clients are surprised by how easy it feels.
What Is the Downtime Like?
After your appointment, your skin may look:
- slightly red (similar to a light sunburn)
- a little tight or warm
This usually settles within 24–48 hours.
You may also notice:
- mild dryness
- light flaking
This is part of your skin’s natural renewal process.
We’ll guide you through exactly how to care for your skin post-treatment, including what to avoid and how to support healing at home.
When Will You See Results?
Skin needling is not a quick fix – and that’s exactly why it works.
You may notice a fresh, healthy glow within a few days, but the real changes happen gradually as your skin produces new collagen.
Over the following 4–6 weeks, you’ll start to see:
- smoother texture
- more even skin tone
- improved clarity
For acne scarring, we usually recommend a series of treatments (typically 6-8 for acne scarring), spaced a few weeks apart, depending on your skin.
Is Skin Needling the Best Option for Acne Scarring?
For many clients, yes—but not always on its own.
The best results come from a personalised treatment plan, which may include:
- skin needling
- LED therapy
- targeted skincare
- barrier repair support
This is why we always start with a consultation—to understand your skin properly before recommending a plan.
How Much Does Skin Needling Cost?
At our Erina clinic on the Central Coast, skin needling starts from $249 per treatment.
Your appointment includes:
- a personalised consultation
- your treatment
- post-care guidance
We also offer package options for clients committed to improving acne scarring over time.
Is Skin Needling Right for You?
Skin needling is suitable for most skin types, but may not be recommended if you have:
- active acne
- certain inflammatory skin conditions (like eczema or rosacea)
- or if you’re pregnant
If you’re unsure, that’s completely normal. You can book in a skin consultation with us to help us determine if this treatment is right for you.
Ready to Start Treating Acne Scarring Properly?
If you’ve been trying to smooth your skin with products alone and not seeing results, it might be time to take a different approach.
Skin needling is one of the most effective ways to improve acne scarring – when it’s done correctly, and as part of a plan.
📍 Visit us in Erina on the Central Coast
📩 Or book a consultation and we’ll guide you through what your skin actually needs.
AUTUMN VIP OFFER
Book a collagen induction therapy treatment with Harper and we’ll treat you to a complementary brow sculpt valued at $49 with your appointment.
Offer available for one collagen induction therapy treatment per person when booked before 30 June 2026.
