Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive way to regenerate and refresh your skin. Much like acupuncture, it gently stimulates your body's own healing response, this time in the skin: tiny micro-punctures prompt new collagen and elastin, which may leave skin smoother, brighter, and firmer. At Mandala it is offered by Al Reed, LAc, for lovers of acupuncture and natural skin care.
What it can help with
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scars, surgical scars, and other scars
- Uneven texture or tone
- Hyperpigmentation and sun damage
- Natural aging, as an alternative to Botox
Scar tissue therapy
Microneedling encourages new skin growth and can soften the appearance and texture of scars from many kinds of medical procedures. For many trans and non-binary people who have had top surgery, scar tissue therapy can be an important part of healing, physically and emotionally, and a gentle way to support recovery and skin health through different stages of transition.
Pricing and packages
$225 for a single session, $625 for a pack of three, $1,200 for a pack of six. A short series of three sessions spaced four to six weeks apart can deliver results that keep improving for months as new collagen forms. Buy a single session or a package when you book your first appointment; to buy a package without booking, or as a gift, call the front desk at 503-758-9760.
Planning your session
- Book at least a week before a big event, so redness has time to settle.
- Choose a day you can rest afterward, and avoid direct sun and makeup for 24 hours.
- Space follow-ups four to six weeks apart to give your skin time to rebuild collagen.
When to avoid microneedling
Always talk with your provider before treatment if you have a chronic skin condition, an autoimmune condition, or take medications that affect healing. Microneedling is not suitable with:
- Active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area: cold sores, acne, eczema, or psoriasis
- Open wounds or cuts (skin must be intact)
- A history of severe keloid scarring
- Skin cancer or lesions
- Blood clotting disorders or blood thinners (higher risk of bruising or bleeding)
- Pregnancy
- Recent cosmetic procedures in the area: chemical peels, laser resurfacing, Botox, or filler
The FDA's microneedling page covers the device risks in more detail.
What to expect after
- Right away: skin is pink or slightly red, like a mild sunburn, with some swelling or sensitivity and tiny pinpoint marks where the needles went in.
- First 24 to 48 hours: redness is most noticeable; skin may feel warm, tight, or a little itchy.
- Days 2 to 3: redness fades, some areas may still be tender, and minor flaking or peeling can occur.
- Days 4 to 7: skin generally returns to its normal tone and looks smoother and plumper; any lingering sensitivity usually resolves.
Following Al's aftercare instructions (gentle cleansing, hydration, and sun protection) helps your skin heal faster and get the most from each session. Book your first session online, or call 503-758-9760 with questions before you do.
Questions and aftercare
Not answered here? Call the front desk at 503-758-9760.
Microneedling is $225 for one session, $625 for a pack of three, and $1,200 for a pack of six. We accept HSA and FSA payments (check your card's policy for specifics), and the front desk can answer any insurance questions before you book.
Pink to red like a mild sunburn for the first day or two, sometimes warm, tight, or itchy, then fading, with possible light flaking by day three. By days four to seven, skin generally looks smoother and is back to its normal tone.
Book at least a week ahead so redness can settle, pick a day you can rest afterward, and avoid direct sun and makeup for 24 hours after your session.
Yes. Packages can be bought when booking a first appointment; to buy one without booking, or as a gift, call the front desk at 503-758-9760.
