Tiny in size but big on impact, microdermal piercings make a bold aesthetic statement. But when healing doesn’t go perfectly, or removal is rushed, a microdermal piercing scar can become an unwelcome souvenir.
These small skin anchors are different from traditional piercings, and with that comes a unique healing process, risk of complications, and specialized care requirements. If you’re considering a microdermal, already have one, or dealing with scarring from a past piercing, you’re in the right place.
This guide will help you understand why scars form, how to prevent and treat them, and what to expect long-term. At Mantra Tattoo, we take every detail seriously—from design and placement to aftercare and scar prevention.
What Is a Microdermal Piercing?
To understand how to manage a microdermal piercing scar, you first need to know what a microdermal piercing actually is. Unlike traditional piercings that pass through flesh from one side to another, microdermals are single-point surface piercings. A small anchor is placed under the skin, and decorative jewelry sits flat on top.
These are popular in places like the chest, hips, collarbone, cheeks, and face—anywhere with enough surface area and low tension on the skin. Because they don’t have an exit point, microdermals look sleek and minimalist but require surgical-level precision and hygiene.
At a professional studio like Mantra Tattoo, our piercers use sterile tools and implant-grade jewelry to reduce the risk of trauma and promote safe healing.
Dermal vs Microdermal: What’s the Difference?
People often confuse dermal vs microdermal piercings, but they’re not quite the same. “Dermal” is a general term, while “microdermal” refers specifically to the use of a small base (typically a footed anchor) inserted into the dermis layer. Microdermals are less invasive than transdermal implants and are far more common in piercing studios today.
How Do They Do Microdermal Piercings?
Wondering about how do they do microdermal piercings? A small tool (like a dermal punch or needle) is used to create a pocket under the skin. Then, the anchor is carefully placed in the pocket so that it sits flush.
The jewelry top is then screwed onto the anchor. The precision of this process is key—if done improperly, it can increase the chance of migration, rejection, or scarring.
Are Microdermal Piercings Permanent?
So, are they permanent? Not exactly. They’re semi-permanent. The jewelry can last for years with proper care, but your body may eventually push it out, especially in high-movement areas. Removal may become necessary, and microdermal piercing removal scars can form depending on how the removal is done and how your skin responds.
Why Do Microdermal Piercing Scars Form?
The root cause of a microdermal piercing scar is trauma—either physical, bacterial, or procedural. Scar tissue is your body’s way of healing deeper wounds, and because microdermals are embedded under the skin, there’s always a risk of an uneven healing process.
Infection or Piercing Trauma
One major reason behind a dermal piercing scar is infection. Poor hygiene, accidental bumps, or touching the site with dirty hands can introduce bacteria. The result? Swelling, pus, redness, and in some cases, tissue breakdown that leads to scarring. Even minor trauma like snagging on clothes can create enough irritation to impact the healing journey.
Rejection, Migration, and Jewelry Material Issues
Your body doesn’t always accept foreign objects easily. Rejection is when your skin begins to push the anchor out, causing irritation and eventually ejection. Migration is similar but happens more gradually. Poor placement or improper jewelry (like low-quality metal) increases these risks. That’s why studios like Mantra Tattoo use only medical-grade titanium and carefully assess every client’s anatomy for ideal placement.
Improper Aftercare or Removal Technique
Removing a microdermal at home is a fast track to microdermal piercing scarring after removal. Even tugging on it a little during healing can cause embedded trauma. Scarring from removal can range from small dark spots to raised keloids depending on how the removal was done and the care that followed.
Microdermal Piercing Scar Prevention Tips
The best way to handle a microdermal piercing scar is to never get a scar in the first place. These scar prevention tips work across all ages and skin types.
Choosing a Reputable Piercer & Jewelry Material
Prevention begins before the needle even touches your skin. A professional piercer ensures correct angle, depth, and placement to minimize pressure and friction during healing. Look for studios that use implant-grade titanium, as it’s biocompatible and reduces the risk of allergic reaction and rejection.
Aftercare Best Practices for All Ages
No two bodies heal the same way. A teenager may heal quickly, while a mature client may need more time. Stick to a piercing aftercare plan that includes sterile saline rinses twice a day, zero alcohol-based cleaners, and absolutely no picking or rotating the jewelry. Keep it clean and hands-off.
How to Prevent Snagging and Irritation in Everyday Life
Surface piercings are vulnerable to snagging on clothes, towels, and sheets. For high-movement spots like the hips or cleavage, wear breathable, loose-fitting clothes while healing. Clients with active lifestyles can even use silicone pads to protect the site.
Types of Microdermal Piercing Scarring
Scars vary not just by size and color, but also by type. Learning what kind of dermal piercing scarring you’re dealing with helps you choose the right treatment approach.
Hypertrophic, Keloid, and Atrophic Scars
A hypertrophic scar is raised but stays within the boundaries of the piercing site. A keloid is more extreme—it grows beyond the original area and may become painful or itchy. People with darker skin tones are more likely to develop keloids. Atrophic scars, on the other hand, are sunken or pitted. All three can result from poor healing, infection, or improper removal.
Pigmentation and Microdermal Face Scar Risks
When piercings heal with inflammation, the skin can darken or lighten unevenly—leading to a microdermal face scar that’s difficult to fade. Because facial skin is thin and highly vascular, it’s more prone to discoloration from inflammation or trauma.
Cleavage and High-Movement Area Scarring
A microdermal cleavage piercing is especially susceptible to tension from bras, clothing, and body movement. This can stretch the piercing site or delay healing, increasing the chances of visible scarring over time. These areas need extra planning and care.
How to Treat and Remove a Microdermal Piercing Scar
You’re not stuck with a scar forever. There are both DIY and professional ways to fade or remove a microdermal piercing scar, depending on the type and severity.
Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Products
For early-stage scarring or pigmentation, products like silicone gel sheets, scar-reducing creams, and vitamin E oil can help. Sunscreen is also essential—UV exposure worsens dark scars. Just avoid harsh scrubs or peels which can irritate the area further.
Microdermal Piercing Removal Scars: What to Expect
Once the anchor is removed, your body fills in the space with new tissue. This can leave a small indent or raised bump. Microdermal piercing removal scars can be subtle or more noticeable, depending on how long the piercing was in and how your body heals.
When to See a Professional for Scar Revision
If you have a keloid or a scar that’s painful, red, or growing, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. Treatments like corticosteroid injections, microneedling, and laser therapy can reduce the scar’s appearance. Not sure if your scar needs professional help? Drop by our studio—Mantra Tattoo can assess it and refer you to a trusted specialist if needed.
Microdermal Piercing Healing and Long-Term Care
Scar prevention isn’t just about what you do in the first few weeks. Long-term care matters too.
Healing Timelines and Milestones
Microdermals usually heal in 1–3 months, but this depends on location and skin type. Full internal healing may take longer. Redness and crusting are normal early on, but prolonged swelling, heat, or pain signals a problem.
Signs of Infection and What to Do
Classic signs of infection piercing microdermal sites include green/yellow discharge, throbbing, heat, and systemic symptoms like fever. Don’t wait—contact your piercer immediately or consult a healthcare provider.
Long-Term Skin Health After Removal
Once the jewelry is out, treat the site with gentle cleansers and moisturizer. Scar massage (done gently) can help flatten the area over time. And always use sunscreen on the site if it’s exposed—sun damage darkens scars permanently.
Shop High-Quality Jewelry and Aftercare Products at Mantra Tattoo
Mantra Tattoo offers implant-grade body jewelry, professional removal services, and curated aftercare products to support healthy healing. Explore our appointments page, meet your professional piercer, or visit us in person for expert help with Tattoo and Piercing in Denver.
FAQs About Microdermal Piercing Scars
Will My Microdermal Scar Go Away?
It may fade, but it won’t always disappear. The outcome depends on your skin type, the type of scar, and how well you care for it. Many flatten over time or become barely visible.
How Do I Fade or Remove a Scar at Home?
Start with silicone sheets, vitamin E oil (if no allergy), and scar creams. Always patch test first and be consistent—scar healing takes weeks to months.
Should I Get a Microdermal Piercing Again After Scarring?
You can—but consult your piercer first. If the original scar was due to rejection or placement, they may suggest a new location or jewelry material to reduce the chance of recurrence.
