What is microneedling?
Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that is used to treat skin concerns by boosting collagen production. With a series of comfortable treatments, patients see a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, uneven texture, and pigmentation. It’s also used in certain anti-aging procedures, such as eyelid surgery and sun spots.
What is the procedure like?
First, your doctor will use a topical anesthetic to numb the area and reduce the chances of pain. Then, utilizing the FDA-approved tool called the SkinPen, your doctor will make small pricks under the skin. These small pinpricks will create controlled micro-injuries stimulating the body’s natural wound healing process of collagen and elastin formation resulting in smoother, healthier skin.
What are the benefits of microneedling?
As skin ages, it’s normal for it to lose collagen. Microneedling works by causing slight injury to the skin, which responds by making new tissue with more collagen that is more even in tone and texture. Here are benefits that can be seen:
- Enhanced texture of skin and elasticity
- Stimulated collagen production
- Reduced appearance of scars and/or large pores
- Improved appearance of hyperpigmentation
- Reduced appearance of wrinkles
- More even skin tone
Microneedling is less expensive than laser treatments. Also, because heat from laser treatments can affect your skin’s pigmentation, microneedling may work better for people with darker skin tones than laser treatments. Ask your dermatologist what’s best for your skin.
Are there risks or side effects?
Like all cosmetic procedures, microneedling isn’t without risk. The most common side effects are minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure and/or minor redness for a few days. Call your doctor if you notice more severe side effects, such as bleeding, bruising, infection, or peeling.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Microneedling isn’t invasive, so the recovery time is minimal. Wearing makeup to cover the redness during the first few days may be helpful, but you can go back to normal activities after the procedure if you’re comfortable.
Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun, so it’s important to wear sunscreen. You should see results within a couple of weeks as your skin is rejuvenated!
