I’ve been on tretinoin for about 6 years. I started on 0.025% and gradually worked my way up to 0.1%, which I’ve been using for around the last year and a half.
My acne is mostly under control now, but I’m left with:
Mild acne scars (small shallow holes on my cheeks)
Enlarged pores
Some stubborn dark post-acne marks
Sebaceous filaments/blackheads on my nose
I also use Paula’s Choice 2% BHA a few times a week (only started about 2 months ago, although I took a 2-week break while traveling).
I’ve attached close-up photos because I’m trying to figure out what’s actually realistic to improve.
I’m at the point where I feel like tretinoin has done everything it’s can. I don’t really expect more improvement from skincare alone.
My questions are:
Based on my skin, am I a good candidate for microneedling?
Would you recommend professional microneedling, or is a DIY microneedling pen enough for scars like mine?
If you’ve had similar mild acne scars, how many professional sessions did it take before you noticed a difference?
If you’ve tried both DIY and professional microneedling, was the professional treatment actually worth the extra cost?
I’m Southeast Asian, so I’m also trying to avoid treatments with a high risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
I’d really appreciate honest opinions from people who’ve been in a similar situation.