Melasma & Microneedling: Can It Really Help?

Melasma is a stubborn form of pigmentation caused by a mix of hormones, sun exposure, heat, and inflammation. Unlike regular dark spots, melasma often sits deeper in the skin, which is why harsh treatments can make it worse instead of better.

This is where microneedling, when done correctly, can play a supportive role.

Microneedling uses tiny, controlled needles to create micro-channels in the skin. These trigger natural collagen production, strengthen the skin barrier, and improve overall skin repair. For melasma, this matters because healthier, stronger skin is less likely to overproduce pigment.

One of the biggest advantages of microneedling is that it does not rely on heat, unlike many lasers. Heat can aggravate melasma, especially in medium to deeper skin tones. Microneedling also helps ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, azelaic acid, and niacinamide penetrate more effectively, improving results over time.

However, melasma is extremely inflammation sensitive. Aggressive microneedling, deep needle depths, or frequent sessions can actually worsen pigmentation. The safest approach uses well spaced sessions (every 4–6 weeks), and strict sun protection. Skipping sunscreen or exposing skin to heat post treatment can undo all progress.

Microneedling works best for people who are willing to be patient and consistent. It’s not a quick fix, but when combined with gentle skincare, sun discipline, and lifestyle habits that reduce internal heat and stress, it can be a helpful long term strategy.

In short: microneedling doesn’t erase melasma overnight, but when done gently and wisely, it can support clearer, healthier, more even toned skin.

How to Boost Collagen with Food: The Perfect Pairing with Microneedling

Collagen plays a crucial role in maintaining skin elasticity, firmness, and overall youthful appearance. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Microneedling has gained popularity as a treatment that stimulates collagen production by creating tiny punctures in the skin, encouraging natural repair. To maximize the benefits of microneedling, supporting your skin from the inside with collagen boosting foods is essential. This post explores the best foods to eat alongside microneedling to enhance collagen production and improve skin health.

Collagen boosting foods including berries, leafy greens, and nuts

Why Collagen Matters

Over time, factors such as sun exposure, pollution, smoking, and natural aging reduce collagen levels. This reduction causes skin to lose its plumpness and develop fine lines.

Microneedling triggers the skin's healing response by creating controlled micro-injuries. This process stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. However, for collagen synthesis to be effective, the body needs the right nutrients. Eating collagen-boosting foods supports this process, making microneedling results more noticeable and longer lasting.

Top Foods That Boost Collagen Production

Certain foods contain nutrients that either provide collagen directly or support the body's ability to produce it. Including these foods in your diet can enhance skin repair and regeneration after microneedling.

1. Bone Broth

2. Citrus Fruits

3. Leafy Greens

4. Berries

5. Nuts and Seeds

6. Fish and Shellfish

7. Eggs

How to Combine Microneedling with a Collagen-Boosting Diet

To get the most from microneedling, timing and consistency matter. Here are some tips to align your diet with your skincare routine:

• Eat collagen-supporting foods daily. Consistent intake of vitamin C, amino acids, and antioxidants helps maintain steady collagen production.

• Hydrate well. Water supports skin elasticity and helps nutrients reach skin cells.

• Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods. These can accelerate collagen breakdown through a process called glycation.

• Plan meals around microneedling sessions. Eating nutrient-rich foods before and after treatments supports skin repair and reduces inflammation.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Boosting Collagen Naturally

Microneedling can significantly improve skin texture and firmness by stimulating collagen production. Pairing this treatment with a diet rich in collagen-boosting foods enhances results and supports long term skin health.

“Natural Results, Not Drastic Changes: Treatment Philosophy at AnjoDerm”

Email enquiry: anjoderm.bookings@outlook.com

AnjoDerm's lead practitioner has over 20 years of NHS scientific experience and is a Registered Clinical Scientist. She brings medical precision, safety, and expertise to every aesthetic treatment she provides. 

She holds advanced qualifications in medical cell biology, biochemistry, histocompatibility, immunogenetics, PRP and phlebotomy, giving her the knowledge and skills to deliver treatments with the highest standards of safety, accuracy, and personalised care. Her extensive experience with blood, blood products, and regenerative medicine supports her work with PRP, ensuring each treatment is tailored for optimal results. She holds a BSc, MSc, Dip BSHI, CL SC, BMS and looks forward to welcoming you to the clinic, where your journey to radiant skin begins.

At AnjoDerm, our vision is to provide natural, regenerative aesthetic solutions, enhancing skin vitality and supporting healthy hair growth by harnessing the body’s own healing potential. We aim to deliver results that look and feel authentic, helping clients achieve lasting confidence and wellbeing.