Microneedling is a straightforward procedure that can boost collagen production and rejuvenate skin. But what exactly is microneedling, and how does it improve the appearance of the skin?

Read on to learn everything you need to know before the procedure.

Who Should Get Microneedling?

People who have considered microdermabrasion but don’t want to wait to see improvements in their skin might opt for microneedling. This delivers results that become apparent in less than a week.

Microneedling is safe for people with any skin tone. With treatments such as laser hair removal, skin pigmentation can be a consideration. With microneedling, there are no such concerns.

Targeted Areas For Microneedling:

Microneedling is a way to remodel the skin. It rejuvenates the skin by smoothening it and creating a soft texture. It can diminish the appearance of fine lines and ageing skin.

It also helps to even out skin discoloration problems like melasma which is done by combining with peels.

Microneedling is mostly used on your face to target:

• Acne scars
• Age spots or sunspots.
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Large pores
• Uneven skin tone
• Reduced skin elasticity

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy or skin needling, is usually done on the face, but it can be applicable to most areas of the body.

Studies have shown that it is effective for stretch marks on thighs and abdominal areas. The procedure is cost-effective and relatively painless with minimal recovery time.

Combining Treatments:

Microneedling alone can improve skin. In typical cases, we recommend three treatments at monthly intervals for around three months. That said, the careful addition of chemical peels will enhance the results of a microneedling treatment.

This is because the microneedles open up micropores. The channels in the micropores allow for safer delivery of the selected peeling agent to a deeper layer of skin. This in turn delivers the best glowing results.

If in doubt about what treatment is best for your situation and goals, book an appointment with Lipstick Empire in Edmonton.

Preparing For Microneedling:

Before the procedure, talk to your doctor about ways you can prepare so you have the best outcome.

You may need to stop taking certain medications such as ibuprofen and those for acne treatment. Your doctor may also recommend that you stop using topical retinoids. Doing so may reduce the risk of certain side effects.

How Does Microneedling Work?

First, the immune system responds to the piercing by disinfecting the wounds. This removes debris while increasing blood flow and starting the process of creating new tissue. This stage is the inflammation phase.

The next phase is all about rebuilding, with the development of new cells and new blood vessels. The final phase is remodelling or replacing the wound with new tissues and blood vessels.

Although at-home microneedling devices are available, the needles dull quickly. They also can’t penetrate the skin as deeply as the high-quality equipment in a dermatologist’s office.

As a consequence, at-home results will pale in comparison to those that your dermatologist will use. Sterilizing equipment is routine at medical offices, while at-home devices that are improperly sterilized can injure you.

What to Expect During Treatment:

With all this talk about microneedles, you might be wondering if this is a painful procedure. A topical numbing agent takes away the sting. Patients report feeling a vibrating sensation during the treatment. This usually takes about 30 minutes.

During the procedure, your doctor will make small pricks under the skin with a pen-like tool. The pricks are so small and you are unlikely to notice them after the procedure. The doctor will move the tool evenly across your skin to ensure the evenness of the new skin.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?

Like all cosmetic procedures, microneedling isn’t without risk. The most common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure. You may also see redness for a few days.

Call your doctor if you notice more severe side effects, such as:

• bruising
• infection
• peeling

You may not be an ideal candidate for microneedling if you:

• are pregnant
• have certain skin diseases, such as psoriasis or eczema
• have open wounds
• have had radiation therapy recently
• have a history of skin scars

What to Expect After Microneedling:

Following the session, the skin will likely be a little red, as with a mild or moderate sunburn. This usually lasts between a few days and a week, depending on how sensitive the skin is.

Some patients experience temporary dryness, rough texture, peeling or tenderness as the skin heals to reveal new silky, smooth skin.

There could also be some slight swelling that subsides 24-48hrs after the treatment. By day 3 the skin will have a pink appearance and there will be very little sign that the treatment has taken place.

After-Treatment Care:

As with treatments like laser hair removal, following your session, you will need to stay out of the sun for several days while your skin heals. When you must spend time outside, sunscreen is imperative.

You need to always apply a moisturizer to help the skin heal and prevent it from drying out. Patients should wait a few days before applying makeup.

Benefits of Micro-Needling:

Microneedling procedure has a whole lot of benefits as listed below:

• Helps to smooth away wrinkles, folds and crows feet. It is very effective on neck and chest ageing.
• Reduces open pores
• Improves the appearance of scars, especially dented acne scars.
• Improves the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks.
• Reduces hair loss and aids the absorption of hair growth serums.
• Suitable for all skin types
• Does not induce skin sensitivity to UV lights
• No appreciable pain.

Does MicroNeedling hurt?

Before treatment, a topical anesthetic cream application will be done on the treatment area. The anesthetic cream numbs the skin and makes the treatment almost painless. You may experience some sensitivity, particularly around the eyes.

People often say that the treatment feels like having your skin rubbed with very fine sandpaper. Others say it feels like an electric toothbrush moving across your skin.

What Maintenance Will I Require?

Each microneedling course is different. A typical course would be 1 session every 6 weeks for 4-6 months.

You should continue to see results for up to 6-8 months after your last treatment as your skin matrix regrows new collagen.

How long do I have to wait to wear makeup?

You can return to your regular makeup within 2-3 days. You must however continue to use a high factor sunscreen.

You can start using a suitable medical camouflage immediately after treatment. This discussion can be done with the technician.

Conclusion:

Being kind to your skin by following the after-care treatment plan will give you glowing skin. Besides this, attending all the follow-up sessions will help remodel your skin.

Book with us today at Lipstick Empire LaserSPA Edmonton to get the silky softness that you seek!