MEDICAL SKIN CARE
Microneedling
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure. It involves pricking the skin with tiny sterilized needles. The small wounds cause your body to make more collagen and elastin, which heal your skin and help you look younger. You might also hear it called collagen induction therapy.
Microneedling may help with issues like:
- Acne
- Hair loss (also called alopecia)
- Dark spots or patches on your skin (hyperpigmentation)
- Large pores
- Reduced skin elasticity
- Scars
- Stretch marks
- Sun damage
- Fine lines and wrinkles
Treatment & Results
During the procedure, the doctor makes small pricks under the skin with a pen-like tool. The pinpricks are so small that you likely won’t notice them after the procedure. The doctor will move the tool evenly across your skin so that the new skin that rejuvenates will be even, too. Before getting started, the doctor will use a topical anesthetic to reduce the chances of pain. This is done about an hour before your treatment. The process takes approximately 30 minutes. The doctor may then apply a serum or calming treatment. In total, you can expect to be at the office for a couple of hours at least. After microneedling, your skin works fairly quickly to rejuvenate new tissue. In theory, you should see results within a couple of weeks.
Post Care
Microneedling isn’t invasive like plastic surgery, so the recovery time is minimal. Most people require very little downtime, if any at all. You may notice skin irritation and redness within the first few days following the procedure. This is a natural response to the small “injuries” made by the needles in your skin.
You can go back to work or school after the procedure if you’re comfortable. Some people apply camouflaging makeup during the first few days as the redness dissipates. Your skin will also be more sensitive to the sun, so sunscreen is a must. To maintain the results of your treatment, you’ll need multiple sessions and perhaps other complementing treatments. The doctor will advise you on the best plan of action based on your individual goals.