Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, helps improve the look of skin affected by aging, sun-damage, and scarring. This skin treatment works well for those with skin conditions that have not responded to other procedures.
In this guide, we will discuss everything that you need to know about microneedling.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as a derma roller, is a minimally invasive procedure that helps treat specific skin concerns and stimulate collagen production. It helps the body use its restorative functions to revitalize the appearance of your skin.
A specialized tool with tons of tiny microneedles will be used to treat damaged skin. These tiny needles will cause micro-punctures to the dermis layer. In return, a signal is sent to the cells and they respond accordingly. This treatment will activate the cells and promote collagen to be produced. It is a natural way for our skin to repair itself.
Will Improve:
- Wrinkles
- Sun-damaged skin
- Acne scars
- Skin abnormalities
- Stretch marks
- Large pores
In addition, this treatment may be combined with other anti-aging procedures, including eyelid surgery and treating sunspots.
Benefits:
- Enhances texture of the skin
- Stimulates collagen production
- Can help reduce scars and hyperpigmentation
- Can reduce the appearance of wrinkles
What Is the Microneedling Process?
The process begins with the application of a topical anesthetic. Once the anesthetic becomes effective (about an hour), your skin is wetted with saline pads, and the staff will use either a fine-needle roller or pen device to prick your skin between 15 and 20 times in various directions. The result is hundreds of tiny punctures.
The entire process takes around 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area treated. The small punctures to the skin will enhance collagen production. The new collagen-rich tissue improves in both tone and texture.
Once the treatment is complete, your cosmetic provider will apply a calming serum to the treated area. Your skin will then be cleansed with the use of gauze soaked distilled water. Skin repairs itself quickly, however, the punctures may be visible during the healing process. It could take up to six weeks for healing to complete.
Before and After Treatment
How Much Does Microneedling Cost?
The cost of microneedling will depend on your physician, location of facility, and treatment area. It may cost between $100 to $700 per session. An average cost for a facial treatment is $300. This treatment is considered a cosmetic and aesthetic procedure, so it will not be paid by insurance.
Areas of Treatment
While a derma roller can be used to help the appearance of stretch marks and scars on the body, it is mainly used to target problem areas on the face. It can help reduce the appearance of acne scars, age spots, large pores, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Side Effects
Patients may experience minor skin irritations after their treatment. The redness should decrease within a few days. You should call your doctor if you experience bleeding, bruising, infection or peeling.
There is little to no downtime required after microneedling and the treatment is considered safe for healthy individuals. A consultation with your cosmetic provider will help determine what is best for you!
What Precautions Should Be Taken?
Microneedling should not be performed on those using certain acne medications or those who are pregnant.
Flare-Ups
To prevent flare-ups, patients with cold sores, herpes, or shingles need to treat those conditions before having a treatment.
Infections
While tiny, the holes created in your skin during your procedure are open wounds that disrupt your skin’s barrier function, and you should treat them as such.
Therefore, it’s best to keep your skin clean and avoid:
- Irritating lotions
- Swimming
- Gyms
- Harsh topical solutions
- Pollution
To further improve your results, use a facial cleanser that contains antioxidants. Learn more about Morpheus8, which is a type of microneedling.
Microneedling FAQs
What Does Microneedling Do For Your Skin?
Also called collagen induction therapy, it forces your skin to produce new collagen to smooth, tone, and firm skin. It can treats scars, wrinkles, large pores, stretch marks, and pigment issues.
How Long Does It Take to See Results From Microneedling?
Your body begins the healing process of cell turnover and accelerated collagen production almost immediately after your microneedling procedure is complete. While some microneedling results appear quickly, final effects don’t become visible until you heal. Typically, four to six weeks after your treatment.
Does Microneedling Work?
Microneedling effectively boosts your skin’s collagen production, decreasing the appearance of:
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Scars
- Stretchmarks
- Large pores
- Sun damage
Microneedling safely rejuvenates your skin and forces the dermal (or thickest layer of your skin) to expand, causing unsightly marks to fade.
Can Microneedling Go Wrong?
Like any medical procedure, there are complications associated with microneedling, including:
- Bleeding
- Bruising
- Infection
- Scarring
- Pigmentation issues
If performed correctly by a skilled professional, the risks associated with microneedling are lower than most other skin treatments, including most chemical peels and laser therapies.
Is It Painful?
While microneedling doesn’t feel good, it also doesn’t hurt. Patients report that the forehead and chin are the most uncomfortable locations for treatment. Most microneedling sessions start with the application of numbing cream that seeps into the skin for at least a half-hour before the process begins.
Can You Overdo Microneedling?
It’s best not to repeat microneedling procedures for at least two to four weeks. More isn’t always best, as it can cause inflammation, redness, and irritation. Too many microneedling sessions too close together increase the likelihood of infection and may slow down the healing process.
How Long Will My Face Be Red After Microneedling?
Expect your face to be red for 24 hours after microneedling. This appearance quickly fades. During this time, use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer. Avoid strenuous exercises (such as swimming), sun exposure, and makeup. To help soothe irritation, use a 1% hydrocortisone cream.
Can I Wear Makeup After Microneedling?
Even though there’s no downtime associated with the procedure, most doctors recommend going barefaced for at least two or three days. Follow your physician’s instructions on when to start using makeup, sunscreen, cleansers, toners, and lotions again.
Does Microneedling Help With Blackheads?
Microneedling reduces oil production and blackheads on your face. This procedure also shrinks the size of your pores. Microneedling is especially helpful for eliminating nasal blackheads and acne associated with hormones and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). To maintain results, repeat the treatment every three to four weeks.
Can This Treatment Be Done At Home?
There are derma rollers that can be used at home to conduct a microneedling experience. However, you have to understand that a home treatment will be very different from treatment in your cosmetic provider’s office. The needles on a home device are not designed to penetrate the skin. You will not get the same results from a home roller as you do with professional treatment.
How Do I Treat My Skin Afterwards?
If you have had microneedling, you will want to cleanse your face with water and apply moisturizer before bed. Be sure you always use sunscreen during the day. Avoid any type of abrasive cleansers or topicals for at least 2 to 3 days after your treatment.
Check out our blog to learn how to get rid of smile lines.
