Services

MICRONEEDLING

Microneedling stimulates natural collagen production, improves skin texture, and addresses various skin concerns through precise, controlled micro-injuries that trigger your body’s healing response. At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology in Danville, our board-certified dermatologists use both Collagen PIN and Potenza RF microneedling systems to deliver customized treatments that rejuvenate skin and restore youthful radiance.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that creates controlled microchannels in the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production. As the skin begins its natural healing response, microneedling can improve fine lines, acne scars, uneven skin texture, enlarged pores, pigmentation concerns, and mild skin laxity.

At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology, patients can receive treatment with the Collagen PIN system or Potenza RF microneedling. Both technologies stimulate collagen remodeling, while Potenza also delivers radiofrequency energy to deeper layers of the skin for additional skin tightening and rejuvenation.

Common benefits of microneedling include:

• Increased collagen and elastin production
• Smoother skin texture and more even tone
• Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Improvement in acne scars and other scarring
• Improved skin firmness
• Reduced appearance of enlarged pores

Microneedling can be used on a wide range of skin types and skin tones, as well as multiple areas of the face and body. The most appropriate technology and treatment depth depend on the patient’s skin concerns, treatment goals, and the area being addressed.

How Does Microneedling Work?

Microneedling works by creating thousands of microscopic channels in the skin that stimulate the body’s natural healing process and trigger increased collagen and elastin production. Our Collagen PIN system uses sterile micro-pins at precise depths to create tiny injury sites that promote skin repair and new cell regeneration. The Potenza RF microneedling system combines ultrafine needles with radiofrequency energy to penetrate the skin’s surface and enhance collagen production beyond traditional microneedling alone. At the beginning of each treatment, we cleanse your skin and apply topical numbing cream. The microneedling device glides across the treatment area, creating controlled micro-injuries that promote natural healing. Depending on your individual skin concerns and goals, we may apply additional products or serums (such as Platelet Rich Plasma) to enhance results. Our Bay Area patients appreciate the customizable approach and noticeable skin improvements that these treatments deliver.

Lip Filler Before and After photos at Potozkin and Ellis Dermatology

What Areas Can Microneedling Treat?

Microneedling effectively treats various areas showing signs of aging or damage:

  • Face (full facial rejuvenation)
  • Neck and décolletage
  • Hands and arms
  • Back and body areas with scarring

Specific skin concerns that microneedling addresses include:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne scars and surgical scars
  • Uneven skin texture and tone
  • Large pores and rough skin
  • Age spots and pigmentation issues
  • Overall skin dullness and aging

Our team will assess which areas and concerns will benefit most from microneedling treatment based on your individual goals.

Background texture

Who Is a Good Candidate for Microneedling?

Ideal candidates for microneedling include individuals who:

  • Want to improve overall skin texture and appearance
  • Have acne scars or other types of scarring
  • Seek to reduce fine lines and wrinkles naturally
  • Want to stimulate collagen production without surgery
  • Have realistic expectations about gradual improvement
  • Can commit to a series of treatments for optimal results

If you’re in the Danville area and interested in microneedling, our expert dermatologists can determine the best treatment approach during a comprehensive consultation.

Patients who are pregnant and those with active skin infections, certain medical conditions, or those taking specific medications may need to postpone treatment.

Provider consulting with a patient

Why Advanced Technology and Expertise Matter

The Collagen PIN represents one of the most advanced medical-grade microneedling instruments on the market today. Its adjustable needle depth allows our team to properly address specific issues by choosing varying penetration depths for different areas. This customization lets us treat sensitive and complex areas where skin might be thin or thick. Potenza RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy to enhance results beyond traditional microneedling alone. At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists understand how to customize these treatments for your specific skin needs.

Personalized Consultation and Treatment Plan

We will determine your personalized treatment plan during your initial consultation and walk you through each treatment process every step of the way. Most treatments take 45 minutes or less to complete. You’ll go home with comprehensive instructions and product recommendations to minimize any side effects and optimize results. Since aging naturally causes collagen production to slow down, maintaining an effective skincare routine at home between treatment series becomes important. Our team can recommend the best skincare routine for you to maintain post-treatment and between treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microneedling

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses very fine needles to create controlled microchannels in the skin. These microchannels stimulate the skin’s natural healing response and support new collagen production. Treatment can help address concerns such as acne scars, uneven texture, enlarged pores, fine lines, and signs of aging. The depth and treatment approach can be adjusted based on the area being treated and the patient’s skin concerns.

Does Microneedling Hurt?

Microneedling is generally well tolerated, although patients may feel pressure, warmth, vibration, or a scratching sensation during treatment. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand to optimize comfort. Sensitivity can vary depending on the treatment depth and the area being treated. Most patients find the treatment comfortable and can resume normal activities soon afterward.

How Much Is Microneedling?

The cost of microneedling varies depending on the treatment area, the type of microneedling performed, and whether additional treatments are incorporated. Patients typically need a series of treatments to address concerns such as acne scars or uneven texture. A consultation allows the provider to evaluate your skin and recommend the appropriate treatment plan. The practice can then provide accurate pricing based on your individual needs.

Does Microneedling Help Acne Scars?

Yes, microneedling can help improve certain types of acne scars by stimulating collagen production beneath the skin. As new collagen develops, depressed scars may gradually appear smoother and less noticeable. Results depend on the type and depth of the acne scars, and deeper scars may require multiple treatments or a combination approach. An evaluation can determine whether microneedling is appropriate for your specific type of scarring.

Can Microneedling Improve Uneven Skin Texture and Large Pores?

Yes, microneedling can improve uneven skin texture and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. The controlled microchannels encourage collagen remodeling, gradually creating a smoother skin surface. It may also help soften textural changes caused by acne, aging, or previous skin damage. Several treatments may be recommended when more noticeable texture concerns are present.

Is Microneedling Safe for Darker Skin Tones?

Microneedling can be an appropriate treatment for darker skin tones when performed with the correct technique and settings. Because it does not rely on heat or light energy in the same way as many laser treatments, it may be considered for a broad range of skin tones. However, patients with darker skin can be more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following skin irritation or injury. While PIH is temporary and treatable, treatment should therefore be planned carefully based on skin type, medical history, and the concern being addressed.

Does Microneedling Help Fine Lines and Aging Skin?

Microneedling can help soften the appearance of fine lines by encouraging new collagen production within the skin. As collagen gradually rebuilds, the skin may appear smoother and more even in texture. Treatment can also address early signs of aging, including mild textural changes and reduced skin firmness. Results develop gradually as the skin continues its natural renewal process.

Does Microneedling Tighten Loose Skin?

Microneedling may provide a modest improvement in mild skin laxity, as collagen remodeling can support a firmer appearance over time. However, traditional microneedling is primarily used to improve skin texture, scars, pores, and fine lines rather than significantly loose skin. Patients with greater laxity may benefit from treatments specifically designed for skin tightening or from a combination treatment plan. An evaluation can help determine which approach is most appropriate for the degree of skin laxity present.

What Is the Downtime After Microneedling?

Downtime after microneedling is usually relatively short. Patients commonly experience redness, mild swelling, skin flaking, sensitivity, or a sunburn-like appearance for the first few days. The skin may also feel dry or slightly rough as it heals. Most patients can return to regular activities quickly, although sun exposure, certain skincare products, and strenuous exercise may need to be limited temporarily.

What Our Patients Have to Say

Doctors Ellis and Potozkin

Why Choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology

Patients from San Francisco, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Orinda, Moraga, Alamo, and Blackhawk choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology for our unparalleled expertise and results.

We combine the science of dermatology with the artistry of aesthetics to deliver natural-looking enhancements that build confidence. With board-certified dermatologists performing all injections and a comprehensive range of laser technologies delivered by skilled providers, we provide both safety and excellence in a sophisticated yet approachable environment.

Unlike other practices, we complement our advanced treatments with physician-selected medical-grade skincare products and begin every aesthetic journey with our signature DermDesigned consultation. Whether you're seeking cosmetic enhancement or medical dermatology care, our commitment to natural-looking results and excellence ensures you'll receive the highest standard of care in the East Bay.

Visit Us In Danville

Experience world-class dermatology care right here in the East Bay.

Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Contact Us

925.838.4900