You may have heard of microneedling and wondered what the fuss is about. But unlike past skincare trends, this one is here to stay – and for good reason. Here’s everything you need to know about the safe and effective skincare treatment.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, involves a tool with small, sterile needles that prick the skin to cause a controlled wounding to the skin. The needles measure anywhere from 0.5 to 2 millimeters in diameter. Although wounding your skin with needles may seem counter-intuitive, the logic behind the technique makes perfect sense. This controlled skin injury produced by microneedling sends the skin in repair mode that triggers the body to produce new collagen. Think of it as working out. You have to tear down your muscles for them to grow back stronger.
The Microneedling Process
We know what you’re thinking. Why would anyone want to have tiny needles pricking their skin? Is it a painful, unpleasant experience? You can sigh a breath of relief because microneedling is a minimally-invasive treatment done after a numbing cream is applied to the freshly-cleaned skin, so it’s relatively pain-free. The quick-acting numbing cream is typically fully active within 10 to 15 minutes and will make your procedure more comfortable. And since the needles are so small, they won’t leave telltale prick marks on your skin’s surface. Once the numbing cream in full effect, it’s removed, and the skin is thoroughly cleansed.
Your esthetician will then rub the skin with a serum that has active ingredients, such as peptides or hyaluronic acid (HA). The serum not only allows the needles to glide over the skin easily, but these types of ingredients will maximize the effects of microneedling to stimulate collagen, speed up cell turnover, lift hyperpigmentation, and smooth out fine lines. Plus, microneedling helps these serums absorb deeper, making them more effective.
The entire procedure is completed within 30 minutes, depending on the anatomical site. However, the overall office time will take roughly one hour from start to finish.
After Care for Microneedling
Once the procedure is over, it’s common to notice redness and swelling, which can last up to 12 hours. Plus, there might be some areas of pinpoint bleeding, which is entirely normal. To keep the redness and inflammation to a minimum, your esthetician will apply a soothing serum and a broad spectrum UVA/UVB or SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Fortunately, there is little recovery with this treatment. You can return to normal activities right after your appointment. However, we recommend avoiding exercise or strenuous activity for the first 24 hours post-treatment. And since your pores are open and exposed, try your best to avoid makeup for the next couple of days.
As you heal, treat your skin with extra care to get optimal results from your treatment. Avoid using abrasive products like exfoliators and alcohol-based toners. Plus, apply a soothing moisturizing in the morning and evening. At La Belle Vie, we carry the finest medical grade skin care products, proven to heal you skin and boost its appearance. Our Draper location has SkinMedica®, Obagi®, and Skinceuticals®. These skincare lines are primarily available through dermatologists, plastic surgeons, medical spas, and are available to you at La Belle Vie. Our estheticians can help you pick the best brand and products for your specific skin type.
The Major Benefits of Microneedling
Four microneedling treatments of facial skin, spaced four weeks apart, significantly improves lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, and skin texture within 90 to 150 days after the first treatment. But that’s not all. Let’s take a look at the significant benefits of microneedling.
- Boosts Collagen
We already mentioned this major benefit, but it’s worth mentioning again since college production is essential to our skin’s appearance. The less collagen we have, the more wrinkles, fine lines, and skin sagging we’ll have as we begin to age. In short, more college equals a more youthful complexion and cushion-like skin.
- Improves Acne Scars
Active acne is one of the most frustrating dermatological conditions you could suffer through until you’re forced to deal with acne scars as a result. Minor scarring is irritating enough, but atrophic facial scars can harm self-esteem. Atrophic scars are sunken in the skin and form when the skin is unable to regenerate tissues. Microneedling breaks down the collagen bundles in the top layer of the skin, which are responsible for scars. Translation:
- Allows Deeper Penetration of Topical Products
Microneedling allows for serums, topical gels, and creams to penetrate more deeply into your skin, allowing the products to work more effectively.
- Creates Glowy Skin
Microneedling will brighten your complexion and create a dewy, youthful glow that you can’t get from other products or at-home skincare treatments.
FAQs About Microneedling
Can I use an at-home derma roller instead?
Microneedling is a professional procedure that is performed by a certified skin professional. We recommend avoiding at-home derma rollers to prevent further damage and aging to your skin.
How long do microneedling results last?
Microneedling results can be seen as the skin heals and collagen increases. With proper at-home skincare and sun protection, the benefits and results from microneedling can last for months. We recommend touch-up treatments every year.
Does the Procedure Have Side Effects?
As mentioned previously, patients can expect to experience topical redness and irritation for 1 to 12 hours following the procedure. You should contact your provider immediately if you notice any unusual side effects such as peeling, bruising, bleeding, or infection.
Am I a Good Candidate for Microneedling?
Microneedling is safe for all skin types except those with active acne, as this could spread bacteria. Also, those who are pregnant shouldn’t have this procedure performed.
Schedule Your Microneedling Treatment at La Belle Vie in Draper, Utah
Are you ready to refresh your skin Please feel free to reach out to our office at your convenience at 801-987-8384 if you would like more information on microneedling, our aesthetic membership plans, or to schedule an appointment.
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