Micro Needling
What is microneedling?
Microneedling, also called percutaneous collagen induction therapy, is performed using a handheld, drum- or pen-shaped device, electrically powered, with tiny needles that make precise, microscopic punctures in the skin. These “micro-injuries” do not leave scars; they work by helping to stimulate the skin to repair itself naturally through a process called dermal remodeling. This process starts with inflammation, which stimulates the skin to produce new collagen (the elastic fibers that make skin tight, smooth, and youthful). Collagen levels in the skin decline as we age, and new collagen can be produced when the skin is in repair mode.
Three to five monthly treatments are recommended to achieve desired results. Through a series of sessions, microneedling can increase elastic skin fibers. Microneedling also helps the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin), which naturally thins with age, become thicker and tauter.
What conditions does microneedling treat?
Microneedling is used to treat a variety of skin conditions that cause depressions in the skin such as acne scarring, surgical scars, other scars, burns, enlarged pores, wrinkles (rhytides), and stretch marks (striae). (The procedure is less effective on deep, narrow “ice-pick” acne scars than on broader ones.)
Because microneedling does not deliver heat to the skin like lasers do, people who have melasma (dark patches of skin) and hyperpigmentation (dark spots on the skin) can undergo microneedling without the risk of worsening pigmentation problems. (Darker skin is susceptible to pigmentation changes as a post-inflammatory response.)
Microneedling is sometimes used to help topical skin treatments to penetrate the skin more effectively. For example, microneedling is sometimes performed before application of minoxidil, used to treat common hair loss (androgenic alopecia, which affects both men and women).
Important Safety Information
DISCOMFORT & RISKS
Immediately following the procedure the skin will feel tight, dry, swollen, and sensitive to the touch. It’ll also look and feel sunburned. The sensitivity and redness will diminish significantly within 24 hours. Other common short-term side effects include itching, discomfort, pinpoint bleeding or bruising, scabbing, and darkening of the treated area. Additionally, the skin may look and feel like sandpaper; these effects generally last 2-7 days as the treated skin flakes off and is replaced by new tissue.
PRE-TREATMENT
You will be asked to discontinue use of Retin A, Retinols, Vitamin A creams and other topic medications for 3-5 days before your micro needling treatment. It is required that you wear a sunscreen daily and use the appropriate home care topical products. Examples are Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cream or Retinol Pads.
WHAT TO AVOID:
To ensure the proper healing environment, be certain to observe the following:
For at least 2 hours post treatment, do NOT use any Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acid, Retinol (Vitamin A), Vitamin C (in a low pH formula) or anything perceived as ‘active’ skincare.
Avoid intentional and direct sunlight for 24 hours. No tanning beds.
Do not go swimming for at least 24 hours post-treatment.
No exercising or strenuous activity for the first 24 hours post-treatment. Sweating and gym environments are harmful, rife with bacteria, and may cause adverse reactions.
RECUPERATION AND HEALING
Microneedling isn’t invasive like plastic surgery, so the recovery time is minimal. According to Emory University, most people require very little downtime, if any at all.
You may notice skin irritation and redness within the first few days following the procedure. This is a natural response to the small “injuries” made by the needles in your skin.
You can go back to work or school after the procedure if you’re comfortable. Some people apply waterbased/mineral makeup during the first few days as the redness dissipates.
After microneedling, your skin works fairly quickly to rejuvenate new tissue. In theory, you should see results within a couple of weeks.
To maintain the results of your treatment, you’ll need multiple sessions and perhaps other complementing treatments. Your doctor will advise you on the best plan of action based on your individual goals.
Post-Procedure Instructions:
No sunscreen OR makeup for 12 hours following treatment.
Wash the face a few hours after treatment or before bed time. Use Microneedling Post Procedure kit that will be provided to you. 12-72 hours post-treatment mineral makeup can be applied, but continue to use the Post Procedure kit or a gentle cleanser, hyaluronic acid serum, and physical sunblock with an SPF of 25 or higher.
After 48 to 72 hours following treatment client can return to regular skin care regimen. Retinol products are strongly suggested to use for optimal results.
Avoid alcohol-based toners for 10-14 days as well as excessive sun exposure for 10 days.*
Special Care
ABSOLUTELY NO SMOKING!!!!!!!! Smoking is prohibited 4 weeks prior to and at least 4 weeks after surgery to allow for proper healing and best results.
