Microneedling & Cosmetic Acupuncture

Graceful Aging

Medical microneedling and cosmetic acupuncture are offered as medical aesthetic services.

We use the highest quality TCM-derived serums available and individually tailor them to our patients' needs. Microneedling maximizes their absorption for optimal results. It treats a variety of skin concerns, including acne, and can help treat and prevent hair loss.
Please schedule an initial consultation and we can create a plan for you!

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Microneedling: Service

What is Microneedling?

How can it help me?

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a medical-grade skin rejuvenation treatment that stimulates collagen and elastin production through controlled, precise micro-injuries to the skin. It can be thought of as a motorized, dermatologic form of acupuncture, designed specifically to activate the skin’s natural repair and regeneration processes.

During treatment, ultra-fine sterile needles are introduced into the skin at carefully controlled depths. These microtraumas stimulate the dermal layer, where fibroblasts and skin stem cells reside, triggering a wound-healing response that increases collagen and elastin production—key structural proteins responsible for firm, healthy, resilient skin.

The outer epidermal layer remains largely intact, allowing it to continue protecting the skin barrier. Over the following weeks, the epidermis naturally sheds as newly regenerated cells migrate upward, resulting in smoother texture, improved tone, and healthier-functioning skin.

How Can Microneedling Help My Skin?

By working with the body’s innate healing mechanisms, microneedling supports gradual, natural skin improvement rather than artificial alteration. It is commonly used to improve:

Fine lines and wrinkles
Uneven skin texture and tone
Acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Enlarged pores
Sun damage and dull skin
Hair thinning and scalp health (when used on the scalp)

Because collagen remodeling occurs over time, results develop progressively and continue to improve with a series of treatments.

Medical & Integrative Microneedling in Santa Cruz

All microneedling treatments are performed using medical-grade devices with strict safety and hygiene standards. At Ava Zack Acupuncture, microneedling is often combined with acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle guidance to support skin health from both internal and external perspectives.

This integrative approach addresses circulation, inflammation, and nervous system regulation—key factors in skin aging and repair. Our goal is natural skin restoration, not artificial enhancement, helping your skin function better and age more gracefully.A

Microneedling: Text

Microneedling for Hair Loss & Scalp Health

Microneedling can also be performed on the scalp to support hair growth and follicle health. When applied to the scalp, controlled micro-injuries stimulate local circulation, activate follicular stem cells, and increase the release of growth factors involved in the hair growth cycle.

This process may help:

Improve blood flow to hair follicles
Support follicular regeneration and stem cell signaling
Enhance absorption of topical growth-supportive serums
Reduce inflammation that may contribute to hair thinning

Scalp microneedling is commonly used for early-stage hair thinning, stress-related shedding, postpartum hair loss, and age-related changes. At our clinic, scalp microneedling may be combined with acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle guidance to support hair growth from both neurological and physiological perspectives.

Results are gradual and depend on consistency, underlying health factors, and the stage of hair loss. A series of treatments is typically recommended for best outcomes.

Top Questions

Microneedling FAQ

Does Microneedling hurt?

Most patients say no, microneedling is not painful. The procedure is generally described as mild to moderately uncomfortable. During treatment, very fine needles are inserted at a shallow depth—typically around 0.5 mm, with a maximum depth of 1.5 mm. The microneedling device oscillates at approximately 18,000 RPM, which allows the needles to enter and exit the skin quickly and smoothly, minimizing discomfort.

Sensation can vary depending on the treatment area and individual sensitivity. Areas with less natural cushioning, such as the forehead, may feel more intense than areas like the cheeks. To maximize comfort, a topical numbing cream is usually applied before treatment, and patients may always opt for additional numbing if desired.

Overall, most people tolerate microneedling very well and are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the treatment feels.

How is Nanoneedling different from Microneedling?

Nanoneedling uses the same high-speed, oscillating motion as microneedling, but instead of needles, the cartridge tip contains 81 microscopic, hair-like silicone cones. These cones do not penetrate into the dermis. Instead, nanoneedling works only on the epidermis, affecting the outermost ~0.15 mm of the skin.

Because nanoneedling does not create true micro-injuries, it is a very gentle, non-invasive treatment. Its primary benefits are enhanced absorption of active or medicinal serums, light exfoliation, and improved skin texture and glow.

Nanoneedling can be performed weekly and functions more like a results-driven facial, while microneedling is a deeper treatment designed to stimulate collagen and address concerns such as scars, wrinkles, and hair loss. Many patients choose to alternate or combine both treatments depending on their skin goals.

How should I prepare for my first treatment?

Most patients are not sensitive to the clean, minimal ingredients used during treatment—primarily hyaluronic acid, which is naturally found in the skin. If you have a history of skin sensitivity or concerns about reactions, you may request a patch test for any applicable serums prior to treatment.

On the day of your appointment, please arrive with a clean face and no makeup. We also recommend avoiding caffeine and alcohol beforehand, as both can increase skin sensitivity and reactivity.

If sensitivity is a concern, a topical numbing cream may be applied. Please allow extra time for the numbing agent to take effect. Single-use numbing packets can be requested for self-application at home—numbing cream typically reaches peak effectiveness at about one hour, with best results when applied 30 minutes before your scheduled session.

Your practitioner will review preparation and aftercare instructions with you to ensure a safe, comfortable, and effective first treatment.

How many treatments does it take to get good results?

Some patients notice initial improvements in skin texture and glow within a few weeks, but true results from microneedling develop gradually. Collagen and elastin production occurs over several months, making results natural, progressive, and cumulative.

While improvement may be visible after a single session, microneedling works best as a series of treatments. Most treatment plans are spaced 4–6 weeks apart, which matches the skin’s natural collagen production and remodeling cycle.

The number of sessions needed varies from person to person. Because microneedling is a natural, holistic treatment, results are influenced by factors such as age, skin condition, lifestyle, nutrition, stress levels, and overall health.

For most patients, a minimum of four treatments is recommended to achieve noticeable, long-lasting improvements in skin texture, tone, firmness, and overall skin quality. Your practitioner will review your goals and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal results.

How long do the results last?

Studies have shown that microneedling results can last 3–5 years, even without further intervention, because the treatment stimulates your skin’s own collagen and elastin production.

That said, skin continues to age and respond to lifestyle and environmental factors. For optimal, long-term results, we recommend periodic “tune-up” treatments every 3–4 months. These maintenance sessions help support ongoing collagen production, preserve skin firmness and texture, and keep results looking fresh and consistent over time.

Microneedling: FAQ

How long is the downtime?

Downtime after microneedling is minimal. Most patients experience redness and mild sensitivity for 24–72 hours, often compared to a mild sunburn.

Because the outer layer of the skin remains intact and continues to function as a protective barrier, healing is typically quick. In most cases, makeup can be safely applied after 24 hours, depending on the depth of treatment and your practitioner’s aftercare recommendations.

Many patients return to normal activities within a day or two, making microneedling a popular option for those looking for effective results with little disruption to their routine.

Is microneedling right for all skin types?

Microneedling is generally safe for all skin types and skin tones, including darker skin, when performed correctly by a trained professional. Because microneedling does not rely on heat or light, it carries a lower risk of hyperpigmentation compared to many laser treatments.

A consultation is required to determine the most appropriate needle depth, treatment frequency, and serum selection based on your individual skin type, concerns, and health history. This personalized approach helps ensure the treatment is both safe and effective, while optimizing results for your unique skin.

Can microneedling be combined with acupuncture?

Yes—and this is a key advantage of our integrative approach. Microneedling and acupuncture work through different but complementary mechanisms, and when used together, they may support improved circulation, reduced inflammation, nervous system regulation, and enhanced tissue repair, helping results last longer.

That said, microneedling and acupuncture are not recommended on the same day. Microneedling can be highly invigorating and stimulatory, while acupuncture treatments are typically more focused, grounding, and regulatory. Scheduling them on separate days allows your body to fully benefit from each modality without overstimulation.

Your practitioner can help you time these treatments appropriately to support optimal healing, balance, and long-term results.