Microneedling
Microneedling
What is microneedling and its benefits. Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy. It’s basically using tiny needles to prick the skin to create micro injuries. These injuries, or punctures, close up almost immediately. The skin then responds with a healing cascade, rebuilding and producing new collagen and elastin. Generally speaking, microneedling is known to diminish fine lines and creepiness. It can also decrease scarring, sun damage, stretch marks and hyperpigmentation. It can be used almost anywhere on the body, but the most popular is the face. Personally, I really like treating the neck and chest, as well as the face. What is really great about microneedling is that it can be used on all skin tones. The recommended treatment schedule is at least 3 treatments 30 days apart. I offer microneedling with a microneedling pen.
What is a microneedling pen? They are small devices with a motor that houses a onetime use cartridge with tiny needles, which are sterile. The pen rapidly moves the cartridge with the needles in and out. A serum is used on the skin so the cartridge can glide across the skin. The depth can be adjusted depending on which area of the skin is being treated. My pen, by Cytopen, can be adjusted from 0.1 mm to 2.5 mm. For instance, when I treat around the eyes, I use 0.25 mm depth, but with cheeks I use 1mm. The 2.5 mm could be used on something like prominent scarring, but then a stamping technique, instead of gliding across the skin would be done. Having microneedling treatment is sometimes described as feeling like warm sandpaper across the skin, but shouldn’t be painful. I also use numbing cream before I treat.
When you come in for treatment, I assess your skin and you tell me about your skin goals and which areas you desire treatment on. I will also get a health history and medication review before treatment begins. Note: If you are currently taking the medicine Accutane, it is necessary to stop this medicine, under your doctor’s direction, for at least 6 months before getting a microneedling treatment. I use a combination of serums during treatment. I also have an optional serum with growth factors you can choose to add on. I invite you to communicate with me about your comfort level during treatment, because if you’re feeling too uncomfortable, I can back off on the depth or you can choose to take a break. After treatment, I apply additional serums to sooth the skin, and, of course, sunscreen is applied. I send you home with a post microneedling kit that lasts about 5-7 days, which is by PCA Skin. Again, the recommendation is at least 3 treatments 30 days apart.
Microneedling pen vs home use microneedling roller?
Some people choose to purchase a microneedling roller to treat themselves at home, but I want to mention risks associated with it. One risk is the rollers can cause tearing, rather than punctures, especially as they get dull. This happens faster than many think. This can result in scarring, not healing. Another risk is using the roller multiple times. Cleaning the roller at home will not eliminate all bodily material from it, which can harbor bacteria. When using the roller again, the bacteria could be introduced into the skin, which could potentially cause infection. Another issue is not being able to adjust the depth of treatment. This means some areas may be treated too deeply, causing too much trauma. Other areas may not have enough depth, so wouldn’t get as much benefit. So, always consider risks vs benefits.
