Microneedling

Woman getting forehead injectionMicroneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedure also known as collagen induction therapy, which can treat a variety of skin conditions: melasma, acne and surgery scars, wrinkles, aging skin and hyper-pigmentation.

How Does Microneedling Work?

A fine needled device is used to pierce the skin to create a controlled micro injury. Each puncture produces a channel that triggers the body to heal these microscopic wounds by stimulating new elastin and collagen production, causing the cells to regenerate and repair. It also creates channels to allow the direct infusion of PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) serums deeply into the skin. PRP serums are antiaging solutions that contain growth factors and HA (Hyaluronic Acid). The result is improved skin texture and firmness, as well as reduction in scars, wrinkles and pore size.

What Are the Benefits of Microneedling?

Microneedling offers a variety of benefits to your skin without the need to resort to invasive techniques. In addition to treating common signs of aging, microneedling can potentially:

  • Restore skin elasticity, resiliency and firmness
  • Reduce the appearance of acne and surgery scars
  • Diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and creases
  • Reduce hyper-pigmentation
  • Fade dilated blood vessels
  • Reduce smoker’s lines

Microneedling has been shown to be particularly effective on smoker’s lines, which can be sometimes difficult to successfully address with dermal fillers and other treatments.

How Long Does the Treatment Take and How Many Treatments Will I Need?

In general, the whole procedure takes between 20-30 minutes depending on the area being treated. A numbing cream is used before the procedure in order to render the procedure comfortable. Nonetheless, some pressure sensations will still be felt, although these should not be painful.

It is recommended for most patients to receive a series of 2-3 treatments spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. For patients with deep wrinkles, advanced photo-aging, stretch marks or acne scars, it is recommended to receive 6-8 sessions at 4-6 week intervals.

Is There Any Downtime?

Unlike laser therapy, Microneedling does not cause thermal (heat) damage to the skin. As a result, there is less redness and swelling. This makes it a suitable treatment for all skin types and color. It is an excellent choice for those patients who are seeking minimal downtime.

The skin may be red in appearance for 24-48 hours, like a sunburn with some minor bleeding and very occasionally some mild bruising. The skin may also feel warm, tight and itchy for a short while. Generally, the inflammatory reaction is usually short and fades significantly after a couple of days on average. Patients with a more sensitive skin types or older patients may find it takes a little longer to recover fully.

When Will I See the Results?

Patients may witness a noticeable glow to their skin. More visible changes to the skin will develop over the course of several days and weeks and will continue to improve as collagen and elastin production continues. Microneedling offers gradual rejuvenation of the treated area, with the final results visible after several months. You may repeat the procedure as often as you wish and as soon as one week after the previous session.