Microneedling is a cosmetic treatment involving inserting short needles into the skin to create micro channels. It is also called collagen induction therapy, or skin needling. These micro channels help skin products penetrate deeper into the skin, which can enhance the appearance of the skin and stimulate both the production of collagen as well as the production of elastin.
How Does Microneedling Work?
The microneedling pen is tipped with tiny, disposable needles. During the procedure, it penetrates the upper layers of skin, at depths of 0.1mm to 2.5mm, creating a number of tiny tunnels, or micro channels. Microneedling procedures cause the body to launch a response by creating new elastin and collagen fibers. The skin of the treatment area then plumps and thickens, which smooths out the texture and improves skin appearance. Scars, wrinkles, and fine lines become less visible.
What Skin Conditions Can Be Treated With A Microneedling Procedure?
Microneedling can benefit a multitude of skin conditions, including:
- Acne scarring
- Stretch marks
- Large pores
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Textured skin
- Loose skin
- General irregularity in skin texture
Microneedling procedures can be done on all skin types and various areas of the body, including the face, body, scalp, and even on areas with fragile skin such as around the mouth, eyes, and on the neck. It improves skin texture by stimulating collagen production, thereby improving acne, stretch marks, and other scars. Microneedling is a much more cost effective procedure than other types of skin resurfacing. Results can be seen within just a few days, and the final effects are visible after a few months.
What Is Involved In A Typical Microneedling Procedure?
First, the skin is cleansed. Numbing cream is then applied in order to decrease the discomfort of the microneedling procedure. The microneedling pen pierces the skin of the treatment area, then a serum is applied to heal and help protect the skin. Typically, people experience mild redness and swelling for a day or two after their microneedling treatment, similar to a sunburn. There may be pinpoint occurrences of bleeding and bruises.
Microneedling procedures do not have any downtime. After a treatment, patients should avoid AHAs, retinol, and Retin-A products for three days, as these ingredients can increase skin sensitivity. UV sunscreen should be applied to protect skin from sun exposure. The use of mineral makeup after microneedling is recommended.
How Many Microneedling Sessions Are Necessary?
The number of microneedling treatments needed will vary depending on the person’s age, skin, and goals. Typically, three treatments spaced between four to six weeks apart is a good start for most patients. Microneedling sessions can be booked every four to six weeks until the desired outcomes have been achieved.
Microneedling is an effective way to stimulate collagen and elastin production in order to improve skin texture, reduce the signs of aging, minimize large pores, and reduce the appearance of scars. The procedure has no downtime, with redness fading after two to three days and full results visible in a few months.