Kelly Ripa Reveals She Gets Buttocks Microneedling Treatment

Talk show host Kelly Ripa recently disclosed that she undergoes a specialized cosmetic procedure to enhance her posterior appearance. During an episode of her podcast “Let’s Talk Off Camera,” the 55-year-old television personality admitted to getting microneedling done “on my a– cheeks” after her guest, actor Lukas Gage, mentioned having the same treatment.

When asked if she noticed improvements, Ripa candidly responded, “I’m going to tell you something… just as old as before. Desperate times call for desperate measures.”

The procedure, which has been gaining popularity in cosmetic dermatology circles, involves using fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. Dr. Dara Spearman, a dermatologist at Radiant Dermatology Associates in Indiana, explained to Fox News Digital that “butt microneedling uses a device with very fine, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin of the buttocks.”

According to Dr. Spearman, these tiny punctures trigger the body’s natural healing response, stimulating collagen and elastin production over time. The treatment aims to address various skin concerns including texture issues, acne scarring, stretch marks, and uneven skin tone specifically in the buttocks area.

The cosmetic industry has seen increasing interest in body-focused treatments beyond traditional facial procedures. While microneedling has long been established as a facial treatment, its application to other body areas represents a growing trend in personalized aesthetic medicine.

Treatments are typically performed in a clinical setting by trained professionals and may be enhanced with specialized serums to maximize results. “While the concept may sound trendy, the underlying technology is the same as traditional microneedling used on the face and body,” Dr. Spearman noted.

Patients seeking the procedure should expect gradual improvements rather than dramatic instant changes. The benefits include smoother, firmer, and more evenly-toned skin, with enhanced collagen production that may “subtly improve skin laxity,” according to Dr. Spearman. However, multiple sessions are typically required for meaningful results.

As with any procedure that disrupts the skin barrier, microneedling carries potential risks, particularly when not performed properly or in non-sterile environments. Dr. Spearman warned about possible side effects including skin irritation, infection, prolonged redness, and in some cases, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in patients with deeper skin tones.

“There is also a risk of worsening acne or folliculitis if the area is not properly assessed beforehand,” she cautioned. “Overly aggressive treatments can lead to scarring rather than improvement, which is why technique and needle depth matter significantly.”

The dermatologist emphasized the importance of having the procedure done by qualified medical professionals to minimize these risks. Despite the treatment’s viral popularity on social media platforms, experts stress that it should be regarded as a medical procedure requiring proper training and adherence to safety standards.

Dr. Spearman also advised against DIY approaches, noting that “patients should be cautious about at-home devices for this area, as improper use can increase the risk of infection or skin damage.”

For those considering the treatment, Dr. Spearman recommends a thorough consultation to determine candidacy, especially for individuals with active skin conditions or a history of keloid scarring. “Consistency and realistic expectations are key,” she added.

As cosmetic procedures continue expanding beyond traditional treatments, medical professionals emphasize the importance of approaching even seemingly simple procedures with proper medical guidance and realistic expectations about outcomes.