Microneedling: Brighten Pigment, Calm Melasma, and Build Collagen

If you’ve heard me rave about microneedling, it’s because it’s one of my absolute favorite treatments. Done thoughtfully, it softens fine lines, helps fade hyperpigmentation (including melasma), and stimulates fresh collagen without the downtime of ablative lasers.

Microneedling works by making tiny, controlled micro-channels which signal your skin to repair itself. That healing cascade:

• Builds new collagen & elastin for firmer, smoother texture over time.
  
• Speeds cell turnover so you’ll notice that microneedling gradually helps lift post-inflammatory dark spots.
  
• Helps with melasma because there’s no heat, so it’s a gentler option than many lasers (which can sometimes flare pigment). We pair it with brightening topicals and strict SPF to keep results steady.

What to expect at a visit

1. Numbing (30-45 minutes). Relax while the topical anesthetic takes effect.
   
2. Microneedling with a Dermapen on the face (and neck). Pro tip: always add the neck. It’s tough to “catch up” on later. I also love adding hands so everything matches.
   
3. Targeted serums + soothing finishers to lock in that glow.
   

Expect pinkness for 24-48 hours, a sandpapery feel for a few days, and then that “baby-skin” comeback. Avoid sweaty workouts, hot yoga/sauna, retinoids, and acids for 48-72 hours. SPF 30+ daily is non-negotiable.

Frequency: Most people start with a series of 3-4 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, following with maintenance a few times per year.

Perfect pairings for pigment

I highly recommend talking to Raella about the topical post-care options!

My routine: I layer in proven brighteners—vitamin C (my favorite: Dr. Monica Scheel Platinum Collagen), niacinamide, and tranexamic acid—to nudge spots lighter while calming melasma triggers. Your provider will tailor the plan to your skin tone and goals.

As part of our Halloween promo, your treatment includes one of these Esthemax HydroJelly masks:

• Vampire Infusion — Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) for firming, elasticity, and a “lifted” look, with soothing hydrators. Choose this if laxity or fine lines are your top concerns.
  
• NAD+ Longevity — NAD+ and niacinamide for radiance, resilience, and post-sun recharge. Choose this if you want overall glow and tone-evening support.
  

Both masks are electrolyte-infused alginate formulas that occlude lightly to enhance serum absorption and calm skin post-needling. We’ll help you pick the best one for your goals.

“Trick or Treatment” — Collagen Therapy Special

Save $100 on our Microneedling Treatment + get a FREE Vampire or NAD+ HydroJelly mask
Sale Price: $249

Microneedling is suitable for most skin types and tones. We’ll avoid treatment over active infections, inflamed acne flares, open wounds, or if you’ve used isotretinoin in the past few months. If you’re pregnant or nursing, we’ll tailor (or defer) certain actives, but I did this my ENTIRE pregnancy to help with stubborn hyperpigmentation. 

Have questions about if this is a good treatment for you? Feel free to email me anytime at mmahoney@drmonicascheel.com or call my direct line at (808) 666-2078. I love talking about skincare, and I’d be happy to help. 

Mahalo for reading, and here’s to healthy, glowing skin!