Lumecca vs. Microneedling for Acne Scarring: Which Is Right for You?

Acne scars can show up in many forms—discoloration, redness, uneven texture, pitted marks—and most patients need more than a one-size-fits-all solution to truly restore smooth, clear skin.

At The Center Medical Spa, two of our most effective treatments for acne scarring are Lumecca (IPL) and Microneedling (SkinPen). These treatments work in different ways to target different types of scarring—and in many cases, the best approach is to combine them.

Here’s what you need to know.

Lumecca (IPL): Best for Discoloration

Lumecca is an intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment that targets pigmentation and vascular irregularities in the skin. If your acne scars appear as red marks (post-inflammatory erythema) or brown spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), Lumecca may be your best first step.

The treatment works by delivering bright, controlled pulses of light into the skin, breaking down melanin and hemoglobin to clear discoloration. Most patients notice a brighter, more even complexion after just one session, but for full correction, a series of three treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart is usually recommended.

Lumecca is ideal for fair to medium skin tones. For those prone to pigmentation, a maintenance treatment once or twice a year can help keep your skin clear and radiant.

Microneedling: Best for Texture and Indented Scars

Microneedling (we use the FDA-cleared SkinPen) is designed to improve the texture and structure of the skin. It’s especially effective for pitted or indented acne scars, enlarged pores, and skin that has lost firmness or smoothness from chronic breakouts.

The procedure uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates your body’s natural healing response, increasing collagen and elastin production—two key proteins that keep your skin smooth and supple.

Microneedling is safe for all skin types and tones, and when combined with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) or exosomes, it can dramatically enhance the healing and regeneration process.

For acne scarring, we usually recommend 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, followed by maintenance every 3–6 months depending on your goals.

Why Not Both? The Power of Combination Treatments

If your acne scarring includes both discoloration and texture, combining Lumecca and Microneedling offers a more comprehensive approach.

By alternating the two treatments—Lumecca one month, Microneedling the next—you’re addressing both pigment on the surface and collagen remodeling at deeper levels. This approach can dramatically improve the overall clarity, tone, and texture of your skin.

A typical combination plan might look like this:

• Month 1: Lumecca
• Month 2: Microneedling
• Month 3: Lumecca
• Month 4: Microneedling

This cycle can be repeated for 3–4 rounds, and then maintained with 2–3 treatments per year.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Lumecca Pros:

• Quick, no downtime
• Brightens red/brown marks
• Improves overall tone and clarity

Lumecca Considerations:

• Best for lighter skin types
• Doesn’t treat texture or indented scars

Microneedling Pros:

• Improves texture and firmness
• Stimulates collagen
• Safe for all skin tones

Microneedling Considerations:

• May involve a few days of redness
• Full results build gradually over time

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

If your acne scarring is mostly discoloration, Lumecca may be the perfect solution. If you’re more concerned about texture and indentation, Microneedling might be your best starting point. But if you're like most patients—with a mix of both—the real magic happens when you combine them.

At The Center Medical Spa, we’ll assess your skin and customize a treatment plan that works for your specific needs, lifestyle, and goals.

📞 Call us at 716-631-8500 or 📲 follow us on Instagram @thecentermedspa to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward smoother, more confident skin.

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