MICRONEEDLING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Microneedling, a medical procedure, involves the application of tiny needles to puncture the skin. It is employed by estheticians and dermatologists to reduce:
Acne scars
Dark spots
Large pores
Melasma
Sagging skin
Scars due to surgery or an injury
Stretch marks
Uneven skin texture and tone
Wrinkles and fine lines
Microneedling is a safe and minimally invasive procedure suitable for all skin tones. Its mechanism involves stimulating your body to produce collagen, hence its alternate name, "collagen induction therapy." When conducted correctly, this prompts your body to heal the micro-injuries in your skin with an optimal amount of collagen. Consequently, it can result in reduced visibility of scars and wrinkles, as well as improved skin tone and texture.
Are the results the same whether you use an at-home microneedling device or see an esthetician/dermatologist?
Products marketed for DIY microneedling at home and microneedling treatments performed outside of medical spas are not intended to penetrate the skin. These milder alternatives typically yield less pronounced results compared to professional procedures.
Engaging in microneedling at home carries certain risks:
Overuse of microneedling can result in skin irritation, exacerbating existing skin concerns and causing discomfort.
In some cases, DIY microneedling products may penetrate the skin, potentially leading to infections or scarring.
DIY microneedling may inadvertently spread viruses such as warts or herpes across the skin.
Applying excessive pressure during at-home microneedling can damage the skin, potentially resulting in scarring or alterations in skin color and texture.
Here are 5 reasons to opt for professional microneedling instead of using an at-home kit:
Experience more pronounced and enduring results.
Benefit from personalized treatment tailored to your specific requirements.
Ensure the appropriate number of sessions for optimal outcomes.
Minimize the risk of skin infections and irritation (common with at-home kits).
Prevent exacerbating the condition (a potential risk with at-home kits).
Before & After
What microneedling results can you expect when you see a Professional?
Seeking professional microneedling treatment typically results in more significant and enduring improvements compared to DIY methods or procedures conducted outside of medical settings.
When consulting a professional, you'll ascertain whether microneedling is suitable for your condition. If deemed appropriate, your skincare expertsmay employ various techniques, such as:
Radiofrequency Microneedling: This method incorporates heat into the treatment, enhancing collagen production and potentially augmenting results. It's considered safe for all skin tones, with some studies indicating comparable efficacy to laser treatments but with reduced downtime and fewer side effects, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones. However, further research is warranted to validate these findings across broader demographics.
Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Combining microneedling with PRP can enhance collagen synthesis. This procedure involves drawing a small amount of blood, which is then centrifuged to isolate platelet-rich plasma. Meanwhile, microneedling is performed on the skin, followed by the application of the platelet-rich plasma. This combination therapy is particularly effective for diminishing acne scars and is safe for individuals with darker skin tones.
Achieving desired results may necessitate multiple treatment sessions. For instance, addressing acne scars typically requires 3 to 5 sessions spaced every 2 to 4 weeks, with studies demonstrating significant scar fading ranging from 50% to 70% following this treatment regimen.
When do patients see results from microneedling?
The emergence of results is a gradual process driven by collagen production within your body. Improvement may become noticeable within a few weeks, yet attaining full results typically requires several months. For some individuals, a series of treatments is necessary to achieve optimal outcomes.
How long do the results from microneedling last?
As collagen diminishes in your body, the achieved results will gradually diminish as well. Collagen loss varies among individuals. To minimize collagen depletion:
Shield your skin from sunlight.
Refrain from smoking.
Additionally, to sustain your outcomes, your skin care expert might advise scheduling a maintenance microneedling session annually.
Is there any downtime after microneedling?
Recovery time is brief following microneedling. You may experience some discomfort post-treatment. Immediately afterward, you might notice redness (for lighter skin tones) or darker hues (for darker skin tones) on the treated area, with the skin feeling akin to a mild sunburn, possibly causing minor discomfort, burning sensation, or swelling.
Typically, these reactions resolve within a few days to a week. To alleviate any discomfort, your skincare expert may recommend applying a post-treatment aftercare cream. Despite potential discomfort, you can typically resume your routine activities immediately after the procedure, such as work or school. However, it's advisable to refrain from applying makeup for 24 hours post-treatment.
What possible side effects can occur after microneedling?
Under the care of a board-certified esthetician/dermatologist, the likelihood of experiencing side effects is significantly diminished. However, when microneedling is administered by individuals lacking medical expertise and a comprehensive understanding of skin physiology, the risk of encountering side effects, such as infection, scarring, or persistent skin discoloration, is heightened.
Adhering to your skincare expert’s aftercare guidance can further mitigate these risks.
How long does microneedling treatment take?
The duration of microneedling treatment varies depending on the specific condition being addressed and the area of the body under treatment by your esthetician/dermatologist. For instance, addressing fine lines on the skin above the upper lip may necessitate only a few minutes, while fading stretch marks on both hips might require a 15- to 30-minute microneedling session.
Who should avoid microneedling?
While microneedling is generally safe for most individuals and suitable for all skin tones, it's essential to recognize that not every treatment is suitable for everyone. Microneedling should be avoided if you:
Have a slow or poor healing process
Have or have had keloid scars
Have a weakened immune system due to medical conditions or medications
Are undergoing treatment for skin cancer in the intended treatment area
Are undergoing radiation therapy
There are also specific circumstances when microneedling should be postponed. Your esthetician or dermatologist will defer treatment if you:
Have recently tanned or been exposed to the sun
Are experiencing a skin infection
Have painful, pus-filled, or deep-seated pimples
Have taken or are currently taking isotretinoin, a medication for severe acne
Before undergoing microneedling, it's imperative to ensure that any tan, sunburn, infection, or pimples have resolved. If you are taking isotretinoin, treatment should only proceed if at least one month has elapsed since your last dose.
What should I know before getting microneedling?
Microneedling, like all cosmetic procedures, is a medical intervention. To prioritize your health and safety, we strongly advise seeking the expertise of a skincare specialist proficient in dermatology and cosmetic treatments, such as a board-certified esthetician/dermatologist.
When consulting a board-certified esthetician/dermatologist, you can expect:
Comprehensive pre-treatment consultation:
This session is crucial, as your esthetician/dermatologist will inquire about your health status and treatment expectations. They will conduct a thorough examination of your skin to determine the suitability of microneedling for your specific needs and ensure achievable results.
Expert and skillful treatment:
Your esthetician/dermatologist possesses the necessary expertise to employ microneedling techniques effectively, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Personalized skincare regimen:
Your skincare specialist will provide instructions for pre-microneedling skincare preparation, typically spanning 2 to 4 weeks. This regimen may entail discontinuing the use of certain products containing retinoids (such as retinol and tretinoin) for a brief period and adopting sun protection measures.
Tailored aftercare plan:
Post-treatment care is vital for preventing infections and maximizing results. Your esthetician/dermatologist will furnish you with an aftercare plan designed to promote healing and enhance the efficacy of microneedling.
