What is microneedling, and is it the same as collagen induction therapy?

Yes - microneedling is also called collagen induction therapy (CIT). Fine, sterile needles create controlled micro-injuries that prompt your skin to rebuild collagen and elastin, smoothing texture, softening scars, and refining fine lines over a series of treatments.

What skin concerns does microneedling treat?

Microneedling improves acne scars, uneven texture, enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, and overall skin rejuvenation on the face, neck, and body. Sublative RF microneedling also helps tighten skin for deeper scarring and mild laxity.

What types of microneedling does Express Med Spa offer?

We offer standard microneedling for collagen induction on the face, neck, and body, and Sublative radiofrequency (RF) microneedling for deeper remodeling and skin tightening. Both can be enhanced with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) or a stem cell growth factor add-on. Your provider recommends the right option during your consultation.

What is the difference between standard and RF microneedling?

Standard microneedling uses fine needles to create micro-channels that stimulate collagen at and just below the surface. Sublative RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy through the needles to heat deeper layers, which can mean more remodeling and tightening for scarring and laxity. RF microneedling is often chosen for deeper concerns.

Does microneedling hurt?

A topical numbing cream is applied first, so most patients describe needle-tip microneedling as a mild buzzing or scratching sensation rather than pain. RF microneedling can feel warmer because of the added energy, and nano-tip nano-infusion is very gentle.

How many microneedling sessions will I need?

Many patients see improvement after 3 sessions, with a series of 6 recommended for concerns like deeper scarring. Your provider maps out a plan based on your skin and goals.

How long do microneedling results last?

Results can last 6 to 12 months with good skincare and sun protection. Many patients keep their results with a maintenance session every 3 to 6 months.

Is there downtime after microneedling, and what is the aftercare?

Standard microneedling has about 1 to 3 days of mild, sunburn-like redness, sometimes with light flaking; nano-tip nano-infusion has little to no downtime. Apply SPF 30 or higher daily, skip makeup for 24 hours and active ingredients (retinoids and acids) for about 5 days, cleanse gently, and avoid intense exercise, saunas, and steam for 24 to 48 hours after needle-tip treatments.

Is professional microneedling better than at-home derma rollers?

Yes. At-home derma rollers use shorter needles that can't safely reach the depth that drives real collagen remodeling, and they carry a higher risk of irritation or infection. Professional microneedling is performed by licensed medical providers using a sterile, single-use CytoPen® cartridge, with the depth and plan tailored to your skin.

How much does microneedling cost?

A Microneedling Spot Treatment starts at $175, Microneedling Face is $295, and Microneedling Body Part is $395. Sublative RF Microneedling is $495. Enhancements are $195 for PRP and $295 for stem cell growth factor. Package pricing is available for a series of treatments.

Where can I get microneedling near me?

Standard microneedling is available at our La Grange and Frankfort locations, and Sublative RF microneedling is offered in La Grange, Shorewood, and Mount Greenwood (Chicago). Use the location links on this page to book at the office closest to you.

Skin Treatments

Microneedling

Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, uses fine, sterile needles to create controlled micro-channels in the skin, prompting your body to rebuild collagen and elastin. It is one of the most versatile ways to soften acne scars, smooth uneven texture, refine enlarged pores, and ease fine lines and wrinkles for natural-looking skin rejuvenation. At Express Med Spa, microneedling is performed by licensed medical providers across our Chicagoland locations using the professional CytoPen® device, with options to match your goals: standard microneedling for the face, neck, and body, Sublative radiofrequency microneedling for deeper remodeling and skin tightening, and enhancement add-ons like PRP and stem cell growth factor. Below you will find how each option works, what it treats, what it costs, and where to book microneedling near you.

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Treatment TIme

30-60 min

DownTime

1-3-days

RESULTS TIMELINE

Skin often looks refreshed within 1 to 2 weeks as initial collagen forms. Continued improvement in texture, tone, and scarring builds over 4 to 6 weeks and across a series of treatments.

Result Last

Results can last 6 to 12 months with good skincare and sun protection. Many patients maintain results with a session every 3 to 6 months.

BEST FOR

Acne scars, uneven texture, enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, skin rejuvenation, body skin renewal

How does microneedling work?
Fine, sterile needles create thousands of controlled micro-channels in the skin, triggering your body's repair response. Fibroblasts rebuild collagen and elastin, so the improvement comes from your own skin remodeling itself.
What are my microneedling options?
Three core options: standard microneedling for the face, neck, and body; Sublative RF microneedling, which adds radiofrequency energy for deeper remodeling; and PRP or stem cell growth factor add-ons to amplify collagen production.
What happens during a session?
Numbing cream goes on 20 to 30 minutes first, so most patients feel a mild buzzing rather than pain. Sessions run 30 to 60 minutes using the professional CytoPen device, with a micro or nano tip chosen for your goals.
When will I see results, and how long do they last?
Skin looks refreshed within 1 to 2 weeks, with texture and scarring gains building over 4 to 6 weeks as collagen forms. A series of 3 to 6 sessions works best, and results last 6 to 12 months with good skincare.
Standard or Sublative RF microneedling?
Standard microneedling drives collagen for texture, pores, and fine lines. Sublative RF adds radiofrequency heat through the needles for deeper scarring and mild skin laxity. Your provider will match the option to your skin.

About This Treatment

Here is how collagen induction actually works, the three microneedling options we offer and where each is available, what a session feels like, and how standard microneedling compares to the Sublative RF upgrade.

Treatment Pricing

From

Price

$175

Pricing by service: Microneedling Spot Treatment $175*, Microneedling Face $295*, Microneedling Body Part $395*, Sublative Radiofrequency Microneedling $495*. Popular enhancements: PRP add-on $195*, Stem Cell Growth Factor add-on $295*, Neck add-on $195* (booked with Microneedling Face). Package pricing is available for a series. Ask your provider which option fits your skin goals. *Pricing is subject to change.

View our full med spa price menu

*Pricing is subject to change.

Who Microneedling is For

Good Candidates? Is This Right for You?

Microneedling is a good fit for most healthy adults looking to improve skin texture, reduce acne scars, minimize pore appearance, or address early signs of aging with minimal downtime. It works across skin types and tones – our providers screen each patient and adjust needle depth and tip selection to suit your skin safely.

Skin concerns microneedling addresses well:

Acne scars and post-inflammatory textural changes
Uneven skin texture and rough or rolling surface
Enlarged or congested pores
Fine lines and early wrinkles on the face, neck, and décolleté
Dull tone and overall skin rejuvenation
Body skin renewal (arms, stomach, and similar areas)
Mild skin laxity (Sublative RF option)

Who should consult with a provider first. Microneedling is not recommended if you have active acne breakouts, open lesions, or an active cold sore; a rosacea or eczema flare; are pregnant or breastfeeding; take blood thinners or have a clotting disorder; have used isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6 months; have a history of keloid scarring; or have active skin cancer or recent radiation in the treatment area. We screen for all of these at your consultation before any treatment begins.

Focused on facial rejuvenation specifically? See our Microneedling Face treatment page.

Chicagoland Med Spa Reviews

What Clients Say About Microneedling

Great experience with Kaitlin, I had microneedling done. She’s very knowledgeable, professional and polite. Look forward to the next session. Thank you!
Stephanie G
Google Review
Erica did an AMAZING job on my microneedling. My skin has never looked better and the glow is unreal ✨
Tami Willett
Google Review
Amazing microneedling results! Professional staff, clean environment, and my skin is glowing, smoother, and more even after just one session. Thank you Tami!! Highly recommend!
Michelle Forsythe
Google Review
So thankful the Express Med Spa team! I suffered with horrible acne all through high school and was left with a bunch of acne scars. Not even foundation could cover how many acne scars I had. Stefanie gave me an microneedling treatment and within a month my face was nearly perfect. I can’t even describe how much my confidence has went up in my natural beauty because of Stefanie’s help.
Kearney P
Google Review
I drive out of my way to come to Express Med Spa because I appreciate their upfront and reasonable pricing and easy online scheduling; I head about them from a colleague at work. Super happy with my results from PRP/microneedling with Kim! They make you feel welcome and comfortable. Will definitely be back!
Rachel Lavelle
Google Review
With age my face was looking tired. Thanks to Alex who performed IPL treatment and microneedling my face looks smooth and glowing. She explained step my step what she was doing to my face in a very calming spa like voice. Recommending her to all my family and friends.
Gina LaMarche
Google Review

Contraindications & Risks / Side Effects

Contraindications

Active acne breakouts, open lesions, or infections in the treatment area.

Active cold sore or herpes simplex outbreak (tell your provider if you have a history of cold sores).

Rosacea or eczema in an active flare.

Pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Blood-thinning medications or a bleeding or clotting disorder (check with your provider first).

Use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6 months.

A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring.

Active skin cancer or radiation therapy in the treatment zone.

Risks / Side Effects

Redness and mild swelling that usually settle within 24 to 48 hours.

Temporary skin sensitivity, tightness, or dryness during healing.

Pinpoint bleeding at the surface during treatment, which is normal and expected.

Rare post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, more likely in deeper skin tones without diligent sun protection.

A short-lived breakout as congestion clears (uncommon).

Chicagoland Medical Spa

EXPRESS MED SPA LOCATIONS

Experience our expert aesthetic treatments and personalized care at our convenient Express Med Spa locations. Whether you're looking for Botox, weight loss programs, or laser hair removal, we provide advanced beauty and wellness services across our four premier locations.

Express Med Spa Shorewood IL medical spa exterior serving patients from Joliet, Plainfield, and Will County.

Express Med Spa Frankfort, IL

Our Express Med Spa Frankfort
clinic serves Will County with nurse practitioner-led Botox,
fillers, GLP-1 weight loss,
and laser hair removal.

11 S White St #104
Frankfort, IL
60423
(877) 363-3772

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Express Med Spa Shorewood, IL

Our Express Med Spa Shorewood
clinic serves Joliet, Plainfield, and the I-80 corridor
with injectables, GLP-1 weight loss,
and skin care.

707 W Jefferson St Ste M
Shorewood, IL
60404
(877) 363-3772

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Exterior view of Express MedSpa La Grange clinic building showcasing modern medical spa facility.

Express Med Spa La Grange, IL

Our Express Med Spa La Grange
clinic serves the western suburbs with Botox, fillers,
IV therapy,
and GLP-1 medical weight loss.

320 W Burlington Ave
La Grange, IL
60525
(708) 847-0872

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Exterior view of Express MedSpa clinic in Mount Greenwood Chicago showing the medical spa building.

Express Med Spa Mount Greenwood, Chicago IL

Our Express Med Spa Mount Greenwood
clinic serves Chicago's South Side and southwest Cook County
with nurse practitioner-led injectables, GLP-1 weight loss,
and advanced aesthetics.

3314 W 111th St
Chicago, IL
60655
(877) 363-3772

View Express Med Spa Mount Greenwood →

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VIEW ALL LOCATIONS & COMPARE SERVICES

Each medical spa location is led by a licensed Nurse Practitioner, with a focus on safe, results-driven care.

What To Expect

Pre & Post Treatment Care

Pre-Care Instructions

Stop retinoids, exfoliating acids (AHAs and BHAs), and vitamin C serums at least 5 days before your appointment.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks beforehand.

Do not wax, thread, or use depilatory creams on the area within 5 days.

Arrive with clean skin: no makeup, SPF, or heavy moisturizer at the time of treatment.

Stay well hydrated in the 24 hours before your visit.

Tell your provider about active skin conditions, new prescriptions, or recent procedures.

Post-Care Instructions

Apply SPF 30 or higher every morning. Your skin is more sun-sensitive for at least a week.

Skip makeup for 24 hours. Mineral makeup may be resumed on day 2 if needed.

Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids, and other actives for at least 5 days.

Cleanse gently with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser for the first 3 days.

Keep skin hydrated with a calming, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Do not pick at any flaking or dry skin.

Avoid intense exercise, saunas, and steam rooms for 24 to 48 hours.

How Microneedling Works: Collagen Induction Therapy
Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy (CIT), uses fine, sterile needles to create thousands of controlled micro-channels across the skin’s surface. These precise micro-injuries trigger your skin’s natural repair response: fibroblasts activate and begin rebuilding collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin firmness, smoothness, and resilience.
Because the improvement comes from your own collagen remodeling rather than a topical or a filler, results build gradually and continue improving for weeks after each session. That mechanism is what makes microneedling one of the most versatile skin treatments we offer, from acne scars to enlarged pores to fine lines.
Your Options: Standard, Sublative RF, and Enhancement Add-Ons
At Express Med Spa, microneedling is performed by licensed medical providers using the professional CytoPen device, with three core options. Standard microneedling delivers collagen induction for the face, neck, and body, available at our La Grange and Frankfort locations. Sublative RF microneedling adds radiofrequency energy delivered through the needles to heat deeper skin layers, producing more remodeling and tightening, available in La Grange, Shorewood, and Mount Greenwood.
Either treatment can be amplified with enhancement add-ons: PRP (platelet-rich plasma) drawn from your own blood, or stem cell growth factor, both applied to accelerate and deepen collagen production. The CytoPen itself carries two interchangeable single-use cartridges: the micro-tip for traditional needle-channel collagen work, and the nano-tip for gentle nano-infusion that pushes targeted serums deeper into the skin with little to no downtime.
What to Expect During Your Session
Every microneedling visit starts with numbing: a topical anesthetic cream is applied 20 to 30 minutes before any needle-tip treatment, so most patients describe the sensation as a mild buzzing or scratching rather than pain. RF microneedling can feel warmer because of the added energy, and nano-infusion is very gentle throughout.
Sessions typically take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the areas treated. Your provider selects the tip, needle depth, and serum protocol for your skin, then works methodically across the treatment area. Expect 1 to 3 days of mild, sunburn-like redness after standard microneedling; nano-infusion has little to no downtime at all.
Results, Series, and Maintenance
Most patients notice improvement in texture and tone beginning around one to two weeks post-treatment, as the first wave of new collagen forms. The gains continue building over four to six weeks, which is why microneedling rewards patience: each session’s result is still improving when the next one begins.
For concerns like deeper acne scars, a series of three to six sessions is recommended for best results. Once you reach your goal, results last 6 to 12 months with good skincare and sun protection, and many patients maintain with a single session every 3 to 6 months. Pricing starts at $175 for a spot treatment, with face, body, and RF options priced by service.
Standard vs. Sublative RF Microneedling
Standard microneedling is the right tool for surface-level remodeling: uneven texture, enlarged pores, fine lines, and mild acne scarring. It relies purely on mechanical collagen induction, keeps downtime to 1 to 3 days of mild redness, and is the more budget-friendly entry point, including the dedicated Microneedling Face service.
Sublative RF earns its upgrade when the concern lives deeper: more established acne scars, early skin laxity, and skin that needs true tightening rather than just resurfacing. The radiofrequency energy heats the deeper dermis through the needle channels, recruiting a stronger remodeling response. Both treatments are professional-grade and far beyond at-home derma rollers, which cannot reach effective depth safely. Your provider will examine your skin and tell you plainly which option, or which sequence of the two, fits your goals.

Facial treatment for hydration, glow, and smoother skin texture during a spring appointment at Express Med Spa.

CommON QUESTIONS

Microneedling FAQs

We use the professional CytoPen®, which has two interchangeable cartridges for two different purposes. The micro-tip performs traditional microneedling (collagen induction) for acne scars, texture, pores, and fine lines, while the nano-tip is used for gentle nano-infusion – ultra-fine tips that create superficial channels to drive serums deeper and brighten and hydrate the skin with little to no downtime. Cartridges are sterile and single-use, and your provider chooses the right tip for your goals.

It depends on your goals. Standard microneedling is a strong all-around choice for texture, pores, and mild scarring. Sublative RF is often better for deeper acne scars or skin laxity, and the CytoPen® nano-tip is a gentle option for brightening and hydration with no downtime. Adding PRP or growth factors can speed healing and boost results. A complimentary consultation is the best way to decide.

Microneedling is generally not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have active acne, infections, or cold sores, an active rosacea or eczema flare, take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder, have used isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6 months, have a history of keloid scarring, or have active skin cancer or recent radiation in the area. We screen for these at your consultation.