“Can You Get Skin Needling with Active Acne?”
Short version: Yes, you can have skin needling if you have acne — but not in all cases. When performed strategically, skin needling can reduce inflammation, improve healing, and minimise future scarring. The key is knowing when it’s safe, what areas to avoid, and how to prep your skin correctly.
Understanding Skin Needling and Acne
Skin needling (microneedling) works by creating controlled microchannels in the skin to stimulate collagen production and trigger a healing response.
For acne-prone skin, this can mean:
Smoother skin texture over time
Reduced scarring and pigmentation
Improved barrier function and skin strength
But if breakouts are inflamed or cystic, needling directly over them isn’t ideal — and can spread bacteria or make inflammation worse.
Related: [What Is Skin Needling & Why It’s a Game Changer for Your Skin]
When Skin Needling Isn’t Recommended
There are situations where skin needling should be postponed or modified:
Severe cystic acne or large inflamed pustules
Open lesions or infected skin
Active skin infections (e.g., cold sores)
Clients on Roaccutane or other skin-thinning medications
In these cases, it’s better to focus on calming the skin first with LED therapy or barrier support treatments.
When It Can Be Beneficial
For mild to moderate acne, skin needling can actually support healing by:
Improving skin barrier and resilience
Stimulating collagen for faster post-inflammation recovery
Reducing early pigmentation or scarring
Enhancing absorption of targeted serums (e.g., PDRN, calming boosters)
Pro tip: Many clients in Jannali and the Sutherland Shire choose a course of LED sessions before starting needling to calm inflammation, then transition into collagen-stimulating treatments for optimal results.
Prepping Your Skin for Best Results
To make sure your skin is in the best condition for treatment:
Use gentle, non-stripping skincare in the weeks leading up.
Avoid picking or squeezing blemishes.
Stay consistent with SPF and hydration.
Book a consultation so your therapist can design a tailored plan (sometimes we’ll treat around active spots rather than over them).
Post-Treatment Tips
Keep the skin clean and hydrated.
Avoid makeup for 24–48 hours.
Avoid picking at any healing pimples.
Book LED sessions to help speed recovery.
Use a gentle cleanser and SPF daily.
Related: [Can I Wear Makeup After Skin Needling?] (internal link)
A Holistic Approach Works Best
Skin needling isn’t just a “one-off” treatment — it works best as part of a complete skin health plan. This might include LED therapy, customised home care, and in-clinic support to calm breakouts and build stronger skin over time.
If you’re dealing with active acne and want long-term results, a tailored treatment plan can give you a clearer, smoother complexion without compromising your skin’s integrity.
Book Your Acne-Friendly Skin Needling Plan in Jannali
If you’re in Jannali or the Sutherland Shire, we offer customised treatment plans for acne-prone skin that combine LED, skin needling, and barrier repair for healthy, resilient skin.