Microneedling in Dubai — with or without PRP for scars, pores and texture

Key facts

• Stimulates collagen through controlled micro-injuries
• Best for shallow scars, pores and texture
• PRP may be added as an option
• Usually 3–6 sessions about four weeks apart
• Redness typically settles in one to three days

How microneedling works

Microneedling uses fine, sterile needles to make very small punctures at a controlled depth. The skin responds to these micro-injuries with a healing process that produces new collagen and elastin over the following weeks. Because the surface is left largely intact, recovery is usually quicker than with ablative resurfacing. The depth is adjusted to the area being treated, being shallower around the eyes and deeper over scarred cheeks. A numbing cream is applied beforehand. The procedure must be done with single-use sterile needles in a clinical setting, which is one reason home rollers are not a substitute.

What it can and cannot improve

Microneedling is most helpful for shallow rolling and boxcar acne scars, enlarged-looking pores, mild fine lines and dull, uneven texture. Improvement is gradual and usually moderate. It is less effective for deep ice-pick scars, tethered scars that need subcision, or significant skin laxity. It does not treat active acne and is avoided over infected or inflamed skin, cold sores and certain rashes. Because it causes less heat injury than some lasers, it is often considered for people with darker skin tones who are concerned about pigmentation, though post-inflammatory darkening can still occur and is discussed beforehand.

Microneedling with PRP

In PRP microneedling, platelet-rich plasma prepared from your own blood is applied to or injected into the skin during the session. PRP contains growth factors that may support healing and collagen formation. Some studies suggest a modest additional benefit for acne scars compared with microneedling alone, while others show less difference, so it is presented as an option rather than a requirement. Dr. Abdullah Anis, Specialist Dermatologist & Venereologist, explains whether adding PRP is likely to make a worthwhile difference for your skin and goals, so you can decide with realistic expectations.

Sessions and downtime

A typical course involves three to six sessions spaced about four weeks apart, though the plan depends on your skin and the concern being treated. After treatment the skin looks red and feels tight, similar to sunburn, usually for one to three days. Mild flaking may follow. Make-up, active skincare such as retinoids and acids, swimming pools and intense exercise are paused for a short time. Strict sun protection is important afterwards, especially in Dubai's climate, to reduce the risk of pigmentation. Results build gradually over two to three months after each session as collagen remodels.

Safety and choosing where to have it

Microneedling should be performed by trained staff under a doctor who can assess your skin first, using sterile single-use needles. Tell the clinic if you take isotretinoin or blood thinners, have a history of keloids, cold sores or eczema, or are pregnant. Contact the clinic urgently if you develop increasing pain, swelling, pus, blistering or fever after treatment. At Manhal Medical Center, Dr. Abdullah Anis reviews your scar types and skin history and may recommend microneedling on its own, combined with PRP, or alongside other treatments such as subcision or CO2 laser.

Acne scars come in different shapes — rolling, boxcar and icepick — and respond best to a combination plan designed for your scar types.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.