WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING?
Microneedling is a well-liked cosmetic treatment that is both budget-friendly and effective for many first-time users.
If you are unfamiliar with microneedling, the idea of needles might sound intimidating. However, it is actually a minimally invasive procedure that is worth experiencing. Let’s look at the advantages of microneedling and what to anticipate during your visit to a Aesthetician for this treatment.
Let’s find out 😊
THE MICRO-NEEDLING TREATMENT
1. Microneedling is a treatment also called collagen induction therapy. It involves using tiny, sterile needles to make small punctures in the skin. This process creates minor wounds that encourage the body to produce more collagen and elastin. As we age, our natural production of these substances decreases, leading to thinner skin and visible signs of aging. Microneedling can help boost this production.
Many people choose this cosmetic procedure to improve their skin and achieve a more youthful look.
There are several types of microneedling treatments available, each offering unique benefits. These include:
Traditional microneedling – This method uses a handheld device to enhance blood flow and stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Microneedling & PRP – Often referred to as the “vampire facial,” this treatment uses platelet-rich plasma to lift, tighten, and rejuvenate the skin.
RF Microneedling – This combines microneedling with radiofrequency to further enhance collagen and elastin stimulation.
Microneedling treatment benefits.
Microneedling offers several advantages that make it a favored choice for various skin issues. These benefits are:
Enhancing skin texture and color
Boosting collagen and elastin production
Addressing scars and dark spots
Minimizing fine lines and wrinkles
Helping with hair loss
Relatively affordable
Appropriate for most skin types
A viable option for those with darker skin tones compared to laser treatments.
What areas can be treated with microneedling?
Microneedling can be used on various parts of the body, not just the face. In addition to the face, you can also treat areas like the thighs, arms, stomach, and the back of your hands.
What occurs during a microneedling session?
Trying a new cosmetic treatment can feel a bit intimidating, especially if it seems invasive. However, there’s no need to worry once you see how straightforward the process is.
Before starting microneedling, you will meet with your practitioner. They will examine your skin, go over your health history, and talk about your treatment goals.
After this consultation, the actual procedure begins. The area will be numbed with a cream to keep you comfortable throughout the treatment.
The microneedling device used may differ based on your practitioner’s preference, but the method remains consistent. The device will glide gently over your skin, creating controlled tiny punctures. Depending on the depth of scars or acne severity, longer needles may be used, ranging from 0.5 to 2 millimeters.
Sometimes, microneedling is paired with other facial treatments for better results. We suggest combining it with dermaplaning, which exfoliates the skin’s surface deeply, enhancing the overall outcome.
WHAT IS THE MAIN DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MICRO-NEEDLING AT HOME AND MICRO-NEEDLING BY A PROFESSIONAL?
Well, the main difference is the size of the needles.
- At home device only penetrates a few layers of the epidermis.
In no case does it reach the dermis and therefore does NOT generate collagen and hyaluronic acid production.
What derma roller at home really does is opening channels in the epidermis and allowing the ingredients of your cosmetics to penetrate better.
Not bad, eh? Well, it depends on your products.
Because some creams and serums contain chemical ingredients, such as silicones or preservatives, that shouldn’t get into your skin.
Because once inside, they can cause an allergic reaction and sensitivity.
If you visit us, we can advise you on the best CLINICCARE products that can be applied with your derma roller at home.
- Professional devices are more sophisticated and in the form of a pen where we can modify the penetration of the needle.
There are many different devices, but they generally range from 0.5 to 1.5 mm penetration in the aesthetic clinic and up to 3 mm in the medical clinic.
We do not use the same penetration in the forehead, eye, or cheeks in facial treatments.
Because the skin has different thicknesses.
BUT HOW DOES MICRONEEDLING WORK, AND WHAT IS IT USED FOR?
Well, it involves making a very controlled wound in your skin to activate the body’s healing system.
The body produces collagen and hyaluronic acid to heal wounds.
As our skin decreases collagen levels in the ageing process and acne, we recommend micro-needling for both cases.
In addition, in the case of acne, it has fantastic results on scars.
Am I a good fit for microneedling?
Are you a good fit for microneedling? This treatment is generally safe for many people, but some may need to consider other options. You might want to look for alternatives if you are:
– Pregnant or breastfeeding
– Taking blood thinners
– Dealing with active acne, rosacea, eczema, or similar issues at the treatment area
– Under a doctor’s care for specific health conditions
If you’re looking to address skin issues like pigmentation, fine lines, scars, texture, and sagging, microneedling could be a suitable choice for you.
It’s important to have realistic expectations about the results. Make sure to talk with your practitioner, as they can guide you to the best treatment for your needs.
Microneedling during pregnancy or breastfeeding: is it safe?
Microneedling does not involve lasers, chemicals, or electricity, but it does create tiny injuries on the skin. This can lead to infections or other issues. For this reason, it is advisable to wait until after pregnancy or breastfeeding to have microneedling done.
Microneedling aftercare
After microneedling, it’s important to take care of your skin to achieve the best results. For up to 72 hours, your skin may feel and look like it has a sunburn. In the following days, you might notice dryness and some peeling.
Refrain from using makeup for 24 to 48 hours, and avoid active ingredients like retinol, AHAs, and BHAs, as well as exfoliants, for one week. Other cosmetic procedures, such as dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle treatments, should be postponed for two weeks.
For the first week after your treatment, use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF. We recommend Dermaquest Sheer Zinc SPF30 to shield your skin from sun damage. Stay away from alcohol and caffeine while your skin heals, and consider consulting your practitioner for tailored skincare advice to address your specific concerns.
How long does it take to see results from microneedling?
Results from cosmetic treatments can differ for each person. Generally, you might start to notice changes around four weeks after the procedure. However, this can depend on how your skin reacts, the number of sessions you undergo, and the specific skin issues you are addressing.
Most people will need about 3 to 6 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. If you combine microneedling with other facial treatments and follow a good skincare routine at home, you can achieve even better results! To keep your results, consider having a session once or twice a year.
Is microneedling a permanent solution?
Microneedling isn’t necessarily a permanent solution. To achieve lasting results, it’s often necessary to undergo treatments on a regular basis. Factors like hormonal fluctuations and environmental influences can impact our skin, making consistent microneedling sessions advisable for optimal outcomes.
Is microneedling painful?
Pain perception varies from person to person, making it essential to keep this in mind when considering any cosmetic procedure. To enhance your comfort during the treatment, a numbing cream is applied to the area beforehand.
The tiny punctures in the skin can lead to some bleeding, and many individuals describe the sensation as akin to scratching. While there may be slight discomfort when the needle encounters bony regions like the forehead, this sensation is brief, as the entire procedure is completed fairly quickly!
IS MICRONEEDLING DANGEROUS?
Well, like everything else, not if you do it at home with an approved device. Neither If your treatment is performed by a good professional.
The problems start when unqualified people have access to professional, unregulated and poor-quality devices because:
- Poor quality needles can break and sometimes get stuck in the skin. A good derma-roller has needles made of titanium or surgical steel.
- Consumers use at home derma-rollers more frequently, sometimes up to twice a week. Continually opening channels can cause bacteria to penetrate the skin and sensitise it.
- Even if you disinfect your derma roller with alcohol, not all microorganisms are eliminated. In the cabin, we use one disposable needle per patient to avoid infections. So even if you have several treatments, we use one needle at a time.
- With continued use, the needles become less sharp. This added to incorrect technique can lead to scratches which can result in hyperpigmentation and even scarring.
- Not everyone is a good candidate for this kind of treatment. So, if your skin is not suitable, you will only damage it further.
As you can see, at-home treatment can dramatically improve the results of your skincare, as long as the derma roller is approved and the skincare is allowed to penetrate.
If what you need is an anti-wrinkle treatment or improve your acne scars. The best choice is to put yourself in the hands of professionals.
At Avalon Skin Clinic, we offer you micro-needling combine with PRP with excellent anti-ageing results.
If you want to know more leave a comment or book a consultation, and we will be happy to advise you.
CONCLUSION
Microneedling is a great treatment that enhances skin firmness and tightness while addressing various issues, including aging, pigmentation, and texture irregularities. It is particularly advantageous for individuals looking to boost collagen production, despite the potential for some discomfort during the process.
As with any cosmetic treatment, whether invasive or non-invasive, it is essential to conduct thorough research. Consider the advantages and disadvantages carefully, and make sure to select a qualified and experienced practitioner to perform the procedure..