Microneedling with Acupuncture
How the Combination Works
Microneedling creates thousands of controlled microchannels in the skin using very fine needles. These tiny injuries trigger the body's natural repair response, prompting new collagen and elastin production over the weeks that follow.
Pairing that with acupuncture treats the skin from two directions at once. Where microneedling works on the surface structure, acupuncture supports circulation and overall skin health from within, so the result is more sustainable and the concerns are less likely to return.
This combination is often chosen for fine lines, uneven texture, enlarged pores, mild acne scarring, and skin that looks dull or tired. Because it works with the body's own healing process, the changes tend to appear gradually and look natural.
At Forbes Integrative Medicine in Phoenix, Dr. Forbes performs both parts of the treatment herself. Her background in medicine and acupuncture allows her to tailor each session to your skin, your health history, and your goals, choosing the needle depth and acupuncture points that make the most sense for you.
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What to Expect
A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment, and the session itself takes roughly forty five minutes to an hour depending on the area treated and the acupuncture points used. Most patients describe a light vibration and mild pressure rather than pain, and many find the acupuncture to allow for a more relaxed experience. Red light therapy with the Celluma is added at the end of the visit to enhance skin recovery. Skincare products are added during the treatment depending on the skin concerns.
Afterward the skin looks flushed, similar to a mild sunburn, for one to three days. Makeup is usually avoided for twenty four hours and sun protection is essential. Most patients schedule a series of three to six sessions spaced four to six weeks apart.
Before your first session, Dr. Forbes will review your skin and your medical history to make sure the treatment is a good fit. Active breakouts, skin infections, or certain medications may mean waiting before treatment or choosing a different approach, such as cosmetic acupuncture or a gentle laser treatment.
In the days after treatment, a gentle cleanser, a simple moisturizer, and consistent sunscreen help your skin recover comfortably. As the weeks pass, new collagen continues to form, so improvements in tone, texture, and firmness often keep developing well after your appointment. Dr. Forbes will check your progress along the way and adjust the timing of your sessions, or pair this treatment with a laser protocol when that fits your goals.
Combining microneedling with acupuncture rebuilds the skin's structure while supporting the health underneath it.
