Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure requiring precise skin puncturing using minuscule, sterilized needles. These controlled micro-injuries stimulate your body’s natural collagen and elastin production, fostering skin healing and a more youthful appearance. An alternative term for this procedure is collagen induction therapy.
Different Microneedling Benefits
Microneedling helps in addressing skin issues, including:
- Acne
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Hyperpigmentation (dark spots or patches on the skin)
- Enlarged pores
- Diminished skin elasticity
- Scarring
- Stretch marks
- Sun damage
- Fine lines and wrinkles
Micro-needling offers a cost-effective option compared to laser treatments, with a price point around a quarter of that of laser treatments. Micro-needling can be preferable for individuals with darker skin tones due to its non-invasive nature, avoiding the potential pigmentation impact associated with heat-based laser treatments. Consulting your dermatologist is essential to determine the optimal approach for your skin’s needs and budget constraints.
The Microneedling Process
The Microneedling facial can be performed by dermatologists specializing in skin care and skin-related disorders and trained aestheticians. If considering alternatives to a doctor’s office, conducting thorough research on the individual’s experience and credentials is imperative. Furthermore, ensure that all equipment used is adequately sterilized. While DIY or at-home microneedling devices exist, dermatologists caution against their usage due to potential skin damage risks and challenges associated with proper needle sterilization.
The typical microneedling procedure lasts for 10-20 minutes, with the duration varying based on the treated area’s size. Optimal results often necessitate 4-6 sessions, offering visible differences in treatment.
The micro-needling procedure involves applying numbing cream gently smoothed onto your facial skin. This ensures that you remain comfortable during the subsequent needle pricks. Following this, the microneedling practitioner will utilize a pen-shaped or rolling tool adorned with miniature needles. This instrument is systematically maneuvered across your facial area. Some bleeding may occur as these tiny needles create minute incisions in your skin. Subsequently, your doctor might apply a soothing cream or serum to your face.
The principal objective of microneedling revolves around initiating your body’s innate healing mechanisms. This is achieved by stimulating collagen and elastin production, crucial components that facilitate mending these micro-injuries. Collagen, in particular, plays a pivotal role in filling and smoothing out wrinkles, contributing to a rejuvenated appearance.
While most individuals opt for micro-needling treatment on their facial region, its versatility extends to other body areas. Notably, micro-needling can be applied to regions such as the stomach or thighs, ensuring a comprehensive approach to skin enhancement.
Microneedling Healing and Risks: What You Need to Know
Before opting for micro-needling, there are essential considerations to bear in mind:
Gradual Transformation: Face needling takes a lot of work. Results take time to manifest as your body embarks on a healing process. Several sessions may be necessary before noticeable changes occur.
Healing Duration: The healing period following microneedling can vary from a few days to weeks. The depth to which the needles penetrate your skin influences this duration.
Post-Procedure Discomfort: Minor discomfort might be experienced after the procedure, accompanied by a few days of skin redness.
Skin Peeling: As your skin heals, you may experience a sensation of tightness and minor flaking.
Bruising and Bleeding: While micro needle therapy typically doesn’t induce bleeding, more intensive treatments could lead to slight bruising or bleeding.
Scarring Possibility: Individuals with keloid scars, which appear as raised and inflated skin bubbles, are advised against micro needling due to potential exacerbation.
Infection Risk: Microneedling involves creating small skin punctures, allowing for the entrance of germs if equipment hygiene is inadequate. However, the likelihood of infection is minimal. If in good health, the chances of infection from micro-needling are low.
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that falls outside insurance coverage. Your healthcare provider will assess the required sessions and provide cost estimates.
Risks And Costs of Microneedling
Microneedling is generally deemed safe but carries certain risks, like any procedure.
Potential allergic reactions may arise from creams, or serums applied post-micro needling while maintaining clean skin is vital to prevent wound infection. Avoid environments with potential germ exposure, such as swimming pools and natural water bodies. Refrain from using harsh soaps or lotions.
Inadequate equipment cleaning may result in infection risk.
The microneedling roller at home is an increasingly popular and budget-friendly option.
The micro needling roller feature shorter and blunter needles compared to professional devices. They temporarily enhance skin blood circulation for a brighter appearance. However, outcomes from home rollers may differ from those achieved at a dermatologist’s office or medical spa.
Like microneedling devices, proper cleaning is crucial to prevent germ transmission with home rollers. Avoid using a home roller on the infected skin.