Microneedling in Denver: Benefits, Safety, and Skin Regeneration

How Collagen Induction Therapy Supports Texture, Tone, and Long-Term Skin Health

When most people think about facial rejuvenation, they often picture injectables, fillers, or invasive surgical procedures that come with significant cost, downtime, and risk. For many years, these were considered the primary options for addressing changes in skin texture, tone, and firmness.

Microneedling offers a different approach—one that works by stimulating the body’s natural repair and regeneration processes, rather than forcing change through synthetic or surgical means.

Although microneedling has gained widespread attention in recent years, the concept of controlled skin stimulation is not new. Variations of this technique date back thousands of years, with early forms used in ancient medical traditions. Modern microneedling builds on these principles using precise, medical-grade technology designed to support skin health safely and effectively.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-channels in the skin without damaging the outer protective layer. (1)

These micro-injuries activate the body’s natural repair response. Blood flow to the area increases, signaling the recruitment of repair cells and triggering the production of collagen and elastin, two proteins essential for skin structure and resilience. As healing progresses, new skin cells gradually form over existing tissue, supporting improved texture and integrity. (2)

This process reflects a fundamental biological principle: when tissue is stimulated in a controlled way, the body responds by repairing and strengthening it. Skin regeneration is not forced—it is initiated through the body’s own healing mechanisms.

→ Microneedling & Skin Rejuvenation

How Microneedling Supports Skin Regeneration

Collagen and elastin provide the framework that gives skin its strength, flexibility, and ability to withstand daily stress. Over time, natural collagen turnover slows, and cumulative environmental exposure can further impair skin structure.

Microneedling works by re-engaging collagen and elastin production, helping to restore aspects of the skin’s supportive matrix rather than masking surface concerns. Through repeated, appropriately spaced treatments, this regenerative signaling can lead to smoother texture, improved firmness, and more resilient skin over time. (3)

Because microneedling works through physiological repair pathways, it is often used as part of a broader skin-health strategy rather than as a one-time cosmetic intervention.

 

What’s the Difference Between Acupuncture and Microneedling?

At first glance, acupuncture and microneedling may appear similar because both use fine needles. In practice, they serve very different purposes and work through distinct physiological mechanisms.

Acupuncture is a core modality of Traditional Chinese Medicine that has been used for thousands of years to support systemic health. It involves inserting needles at specific points along meridian pathways to influence the nervous system, circulation, immune signaling, and organ function. While acupuncture can be used cosmetically, its primary role is to regulate the body as a whole.

Microneedling, by contrast, is a localized skin treatment. It uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering collagen and elastin production and supporting tissue repair at the site of treatment. The effects of microneedling are primarily structural and regenerative within the skin itself.

Key Differences at a Glance

Microneedling

• Targets the skin tissue directly

• Stimulates collagen and elastin production

• Supports improvements in texture, tone, and skin integrity

• Enhances absorption of topical serums applied after treatment

• Focuses on local regeneration, not systemic regulation

Acupuncture

• Works through the nervous system and meridian pathways

• Addresses both root causes and symptom patterns

• Supports circulation, hormonal signaling, and stress regulation

• Treats the entire body, not just the face or skin

• Can indirectly influence skin health through systemic balance

Used Together, Not in Competition

Acupuncture and microneedling are not interchangeable treatments. They are often most effective when used together as part of an integrative care plan.

Microneedling supports local skin repair, while acupuncture helps regulate the internal systems—such as circulation, inflammation, and nervous system tone—that influence how the skin heals and ages.

Acupuncture services are offered as part of comprehensive care at Denver Sports & Holistic Medicine.
→ Acupuncture & Nervous System Regulation

Ancient Medicine Meets Modern Technology

At Denver Sports & Holistic Medicine, microneedling is informed by a deep clinical understanding of acupuncture, tissue healing, and nervous system regulation. This background allows microneedling to be performed with precision, intention, and respect for the body’s natural repair processes.

While microneedling itself is a modern technique, the underlying principle—stimulating tissue to support regeneration—has roots in ancient medical traditions. By combining this long-standing understanding of the body with current microneedling technology, treatment can be tailored to support skin health as part of a broader, integrative approach rather than as a standalone cosmetic service.

Microneedling in Denver: Is It Right for You?

Microneedling is considered safe and adaptable for a wide range of skin types and tones when performed by a trained provider using appropriate protocols.

A consultation allows us to review your skin history, sensitivity, goals, and overall health picture to determine whether microneedling is appropriate—and how it may fit into a

What Can Microneedling Help Address?

Microneedling may be used to support improvement in a variety of skin concerns, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Uneven skin texture or tone

• Hyperpigmentation and sun damage

• Scarring, including acne or surgical scars

• Stretch marks

• Enlarged pores

• Areas of skin that appear dull or less resilient

Common treatment areas include the face, neck, chest, décolleté, hands, and body, depending on individual needs.

(Condition-specific uses such as hair loss, acne, or post-menopausal skin changes are covered in separate, dedicated articles.)

What Happens During a Microneedling Treatment?

A microneedling session is designed to stimulate controlled skin repair while supporting comfort and safety throughout the process.

Treatment typically lasts 30–60 minutes depending on the treatment area. After appropriate skin preparation, a medical-grade microneedling device creates precise micro-channels within the skin. These controlled stimulations increase local circulation and activate collagen and elastin signaling without damaging the outer protective barrier of the skin.

While the process itself is straightforward, outcomes depend on appropriate depth selection, spacing between sessions, and individualized planning based on skin type, sensitivity, and overall health.

(Detailed protocol steps, topical formulations, and post-treatment kits are addressed within clinical care and personalized treatment planning.)

What Happens After a Microneedling Treatment?

Microneedling is generally well tolerated and does not require extended downtime. Immediately after treatment, the skin commonly appears mildly red or flushed and may feel warm or tight—similar to a light sunburn. These effects reflect increased circulation and the activation of normal repair processes and typically resolve within a short period.

Over the days that follow, the skin continues to remodel beneath the surface as collagen and elastin signaling unfolds. During this time, the focus is on supporting barrier recovery and allowing the regenerative response to proceed without unnecessary irritation or disruption.

Individual recovery experiences vary based on skin sensitivity, treatment depth, and overall health, which is why post-treatment expectations are discussed as part of individualized care planning rather than applied uniformly.

Results Timeline and Longevity

Microneedling activates regenerative processes that unfold gradually.

• Subtle changes in hydration, glow, or texture may appear within the first 1–2 weeks

• Structural changes develop over several months as collagen remodeling continues

• Results are cumulative and improve with a series of appropriately spaced treatments

Microneedling results are long-lasting but not permanent. With maintenance and supportive care, improvements are often sustained for months to years.

Benefits of Microneedling

When performed as part of a structured care plan, microneedling may help support:

• Improved skin texture and tone

• Smoother appearance of fine lines

• Improved firmness and resilience

• Reduction in visible sun damage and pigmentation irregularities

• Refinement of pores

• Brighter, more even-looking skin

• Improved appearance of scars and stretch marks

Microneedling also temporarily increases skin permeability, enhancing the absorption of topical serums applied during and immediately after treatment.

Condition-specific applications such as acne scarring, hair thinning, or post-menopausal skin changes are addressed in separate, dedicated articles.

Technology Matters

Microneedling at Denver Sports & Holistic Medicine is performed using medical-grade technology designed to create precise vertical micro-channels rather than tearing the skin.

Professional systems allow for:

• Controlled depth

• Reduced discomfort

• More consistent tissue response

• Safer healing

At-home devices do not reach the depth required to meaningfully stimulate collagen or improve transdermal delivery.

Treatments That Can Enhance Microneedling

Microneedling is often combined with complementary therapies to support healing and optimize results.

Nano-Needling

Nano-needling works at a very superficial depth within the epidermis and may be used between microneedling sessions.

Benefits include:

• Improved cell turnover

• Support for pigmentation concerns

• Enhanced skin radiance with minimal downtime

Because of its shallow depth, nano-needling can be used safely around delicate areas such as the eyes and performed more frequently.

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic acupuncture supports skin health by addressing systemic circulation, muscle tone, and nervous system regulation.

When used alongside microneedling, it may:

• Support facial muscle tone

• Improve circulation to the skin

• Address internal contributors to facial aging

• Enhance relaxation and overall wellbeing

Safety and Contraindications

Microneedling is considered safe when performed by a trained provider using appropriate protocols. However, it may not be appropriate for individuals with:

• Active skin infections or open wounds

• Active inflammatory skin conditions in the treatment area

• Recent sunburn

• A history of keloid scarring

• Active cold sores or herpes outbreaks

• Uncontrolled diabetes

• Certain autoimmune or connective tissue conditions

A consultation allows for individualized assessment and safe treatment planning.

A Thoughtful Next Step in Skin Regeneration

Microneedling at Denver Sports & Holistic Medicine is delivered within a thoughtful, integrative framework—guided by clinical experience, precise technique, and individualized planning.

If you’re in the Denver area and want to determine whether microneedling fits into your skin-health plan, you can

Request a free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Martina Sturm.

During this consultation, we’ll review your skin concerns, overall health picture, and discuss whether microneedling—alone or combined with complementary therapies—belongs in your care plan.

This is not a one-size-fits-all cosmetic treatment. It’s a physiology-based approach designed to support long-term skin health and regeneration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microneedling

Does microneedling hurt?

Microneedling is generally well tolerated. Most people describe the sensation as mild pressure or light prickling. A topical anesthetic is used to improve comfort, and treatment depth is adjusted based on skin sensitivity. Red light therapy may also be used to support comfort and recovery.

Is microneedling safe for all skin types?

When performed by a trained provider using appropriate protocols, microneedling is considered safe for most skin types and tones. An initial consultation is important to assess skin condition, medical history, and any factors that may require protocol adjustments.

How many microneedling sessions are typically recommended?

The number of sessions varies based on individual goals and skin condition. Many people begin with a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart, followed by maintenance sessions as needed to support ongoing skin health.

How soon will I see results from microneedling?

Some people notice subtle improvements in hydration or skin texture within the first one to two weeks. More meaningful structural changes develop gradually over several months as collagen remodeling continues.

How long do microneedling results last?

Results are long-lasting but not permanent. With appropriate spacing, maintenance treatments, and supportive care, improvements in skin quality can be maintained for months to years. Individual results vary.

Can microneedling be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Microneedling is often combined with complementary therapies such as nano-needling, cosmetic acupuncture, red light therapy, or integrative medical support to enhance healing and support overall skin health.

What are the most common side effects of microneedling?

Side effects are typically mild and temporary and may include redness, warmth, mild swelling, dryness, or light peeling. These effects usually resolve within a few days as the skin heals.

Who should avoid microneedling?

Microneedling may not be appropriate for individuals with active skin infections, open wounds, recent sunburn, a history of keloid scarring, active herpes outbreaks, uncontrolled diabetes, or certain autoimmune or inflammatory skin conditions. A consultation is required to determine safety.

Is microneedling a one-time treatment?

Microneedling is best viewed as part of a long-term skin-health strategy, rather than a one-time procedure. Results are cumulative and are typically optimized through a structured treatment plan.

Still Have Questions?
If the topics above reflect ongoing symptoms or unanswered concerns, a brief conversation can help clarify whether a root-cause approach is appropriate.

Resources

1. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery – Percutaneous Collagen Induction Therapy: An Alternative Treatment for Scars, Wrinkles, and Skin Laxity

2. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology – Microneedling Therapy in Atrophic Acne Scars: An Objective Assessment

3. Dermatologic Surgery – Microneedling: A Review and Practical Guide

4. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Collagen Induction Therapy for Skin Rejuvenation

5. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology – Treatment of Atrophic Facial Acne Scars with Microneedling

6. Archives of Dermatology – Percutaneous Collagen Induction: An Effective and Safe Treatment

7. Journal of Investigative Dermatology – Wound Healing and Collagen Remodeling Mechanisms