Micro Needles, Big Results. Microneedling – The What, Why and When.
What?
Microneedling is the insertion of very fine short needles into the skin for the purposes of rejuvenation. There are a range of options from over-the-counter microneedling devices known as deramarollers through medical grade cosmetic microneedling procedures that are performed in a medical office. Small needles that range in diameter from 0.5 and 2.5 millimeters penetrate the upper layers of skin.
Why?
Microneedling offers fairly immediate results in that it plumps the skin and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. The micropunctures in skin that result from the procedure can enhance the absorption of skincare products and cause an increase in collagen production, which can minimize fine lines and scarring. Many studies have also demonstrated significant benefit in reducing acne scarring. Repeated treatments show significant improvements in collagen and elastin production. Microneedling has also been shown to stimulate dormant hair follicles and diminish cellulite. Microneedling is also an effective therapy for minimizing stretch marks as stimulates collagen that fills the dermal defects and minimizes the appearance.
When?
Depending on your skin concerns, the severity, your age and overall skin condition the treatment will be customized to you from a single treatment to a series. There is no limitation w/r/t sun exposure etc. and thus can be a safe treatment year-round! Micro Needles, Big Results
What to expect: The discomfort is minimal and many liken it to feeling like a mild sunburn. You may experience mild skin irritation but you will be sent home with an array of products to minimize pain as well as moisturize and soothe the skin to decrease any inflammation. Proper skin care post procedure is essential to maximize your result. You may notice some minor bleeding during the procedure but will abate by the time you leave the office.
Warning: Because you are penetrating the skin there is always the risk of infection. If you have active skin infection – cellulitis, HSV (herpes simplex virus) etc. then you should delay your treatment until the infection has resolved. Be sure the equipment used in your treatment is sterile to not precipitate infection. If you are using a home device it should properly sterilized.
In general microneedling is considered an excellent treatment for general skin rejuvenation. When coupled with Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) it can have synergistic effects. PRP is an autologous serum containing high concentrations of platelets and growth factors.
References
- Alster TS, Graham PM. “Microneedling: A Review and Practical Guide.” Dermatol Surg. 2018 Mar;44(3):397-404.
- Emer, Jason. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Current Applications in Dermatology. Skin Therapy Lett. 2019 Sept;24(5):1-6.
- Hou A, Cohen B, et al. “Microneedling: A Comprehensive Review.” Dermatol Surg. 2017 Mar’43(3):321-339.
- Peng, GL. “Platelet-Rich Plasma for Skin Rejuvenation: Facts, Fiction, and Pearls for Practice.” Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 2019 Aug;27(3):405-411.
