One of the best things about modern skin care is the wide range of options that beauty lovers have when it comes to finding the right routines, treatments, and products to solve their skin care concerns. Lately, everyone has been talking about a new method that can solve all your skin care problems once and for all – microneedling. But what is microneedling?
Content What is microneedling?How does microneedling work?What do I need to know before using microneedling?How long does it take to heal after microneedling?What is the downside of microneedling?How to get the best results from microneedling?Is it safe to do microneedling at home?How often should you do microneedling?
Although the name may seem a little scary because of the word “needle”, this minimally invasive treatment is very effective, painless and fast. WomanEL will tell you whether it really is an effective treatment for fine lines, hyperpigmentation and acne scars.
What is microneedling?
Let's get straight to the point: microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a device with fine needles to create tiny punctures or micro-injuries on the surface of the skin. These microtraumas stimulate the body's natural wound healing process, triggering the production of collagen and elastin. They are powerful proteins that support the overall structure and elasticity of the skin.
How does microneedling work?
“There are several different forms of microneedling,” explains Dr. Lori Aliksanian, founder of MedBeautyLA, “but the safest and most effective method involves having a trained professional treat your skin using a motorized microneedling device.”
These devices are shaped large handles and equipped with skin-friendly stainless steel microneedles. The depth of the needle can vary depending on the purpose of the treatment – treating discoloration, acne or scars – but generally it ranges from 0.25 to 2.0 millimeters.
Once turned on, the device “seals” the skin with precise, repeating movements as the doctor moves it over the treatment areas.
What do I need to know before using microneedling?
We figured out what microneedling is, and now let’s move on to its benefits. “Microneedling is great for a range of skin problems. But it is especially good for clients with uneven skin texture, acne scars, stretch marks and fine lines,” explains Dr. Aliksanian. “However, it is also useful for clients who simply want to improve skin tone and brightness, or for those interested in non-invasive anti-aging techniques.”
As the device creates microtraumas, the body works to repair these injuries by producing collagen and elastin. As it heals, the skin becomes firmer, smoother and even in texture. In addition, it heals old scars and makes the skin firmer and more radiant.
How long does it take to heal after microneedling?
Immediately after a microneedling treatment, the skin will be red and maybe even a little irritated, but this usually goes away within a few hours. To soothe the skin, patients can apply a thin layer of a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer. In addition to soothing redness, it will also help support the healing process and maintain the skin's barrier function.
What is the downside of microneedling?
Perhaps the most frequently asked question about microneedling is whether the procedure is painful. It seems like skin stamping isn't completely painless, but believe it or not, it is! This is because the skin is numbed with a topical cream approximately 30 minutes before the procedure. This means that by the time microneedling begins, it will be completely numb. During treatment, some people may feel a sensation similar to a slight scratching or tingling, but patients usually do not feel anything.
How to achieve maximum microneedling results?
Once the doctor completes the microneedling procedure (the length of the microneedling procedure can vary, but it typically takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour), it is extremely important to maintain proper aftercare. In addition to moisturizer, it is important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage.
Additionally, patients should avoid using harsh skin care products, such as exfoliants or retinoids, for several days after the session. And, if possible, they should try not to wear makeup for at least 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Fortunately, after just a few sessions, patients will notice that their skin glows from the inside!
Is microneedling safe to do at home?
Perhaps one of the most controversial topics surrounding microneedling is whether it is safe to do at home. Although there are several at-home microneedling devices on the market, it is not recommended to perform microneedling on your skin at home. According to Michelle McMahan, a medical esthetician at Facial Plastic Surgery in Palm Beach, “Most portable microneedling procedures are performed at a 45-degree angle, which can cause tearing of the skin.”
In this regard, it is better to contact a professional for microneedling rather than performing procedures at home, since they can do more harm to the skin than good.
How often should microneedling be done?
“If you're just starting out, you should always start with a series of three treatments once a month for three months,” says McMahan. “After that, you can switch to a single treatment every three to six months to maintain the results.” Additionally, using PRP (or platelet-rich plasma, which is the part of your blood that contains growth factors) with microneedling may speed up the time you see results.
If you're concerned about acne scars, we covered , how to get rid of them quickly and effectively.