What is micro-needling?
Micro-needling is a cosmetic procedure that boosts collagen cell production using a tiny, sterilized needle. Also known as collagen induction therapy, this treatment puts micro-punctures into the skin with miniature, sterilized needles. It helps smooth, firm, and tone skin and decreases the appearance of scars, acne, and wrinkles.
It is a procedure that is minimally invasive, requiring little to no downtime. It is safe for most people who are in good health. The procedure may not be a Trusted Source for people who use certain medications, like those with active acne, or those with a moderate or severe case of psoriasis or eczema.
You may experience minor redness and irritation for a few days after you get the procedure done. Each session usually lasts about 30 minutes and It’s best to see a board-certified dermatologist for this procedure. In some states, an aesthetician may also be able to perform the procedure while being supervised by a physician. You may need multiple sessions of treatments for the best outcome.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), it’s effective in treating minor scars related to acne, stretch marks, and ageing skin. After the procedure, you will notice brighter and firmer skin.
Even though more research is to be done, a 2021 study suggests micro-needling may promote hair growth in some people with alopecia.
The Benefits of Micro-needling
Micro-needling is a popular treatment for its growing list of benefits. It is said to rejuvenate and plump the skin with minimal discomfort and downtime, making it convenient to adjust to fit each person’s needs.
I can improve:
- Decrease the appearance of fine lines, scars and wrinkles
- Control enlarged pores
- Lowers the appearance of hyperpigmentation
- Tone down uneven skin tone
- Encourage skin elasticity
- Decreases the appearance of stretch marks
- Boost hair growth in alopecia patients
It is a less expensive procedure than laser therapy and usually works better for some people.
People with darker skin tones should go for a micro-needling treatment over laser therapy because of safety concerns associated with certain types of laser treatments on the skin color. At Premier Dermatology our in-house expert Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Trisha Khanna has been working with multiple patients for this treatment and each one of them has achieved great results.
Targeted areas for micro-needling treatment
- Most often used on face
- For scarring and stretch marks elsewhere on the body
- Stretch marks on the thighs and abdominal area combined with fillers
How does micro-needling work to make your skin better?
The process is interesting, the pinpricks from the micro-needling device cause slight injury to the skin, and the skin responds by making new collagen-rich tissue during the healing process.
This new skin tissue turns out to be more even in tone and texture. It’s common for the skin to lose collagen as you age over time. By encouraging the skin to make new tissue, additional collagen can make the skin firmer.
Is micro-needling safe?
This procedure is not ideal for people with certain skin conditions that are mentioned below:
- psoriasis or eczema
- have open wounds
- active acne
- had radiation therapy recently
- history of skin scars
- Pregnant people need to be cleared by a gynecologist before treatment
How to care for your skin after micro-needling?
After the micro-needling procedure, your skin channels are open and sensitive, so it’s best to avoid the following in the first week of recovery:
- sun exposure
- products with alpha-hydroxy acids and retinol
- makeup
- sweating
You can help the healing process after micro-needling by:
- staying hydrated
- using an antioxidant serum
- using a cooling mask
- using collagen-stimulating peptides
How many sessions of micro-needling are needed for acne scars?
Treatment plans may vary from person to person, but research and studies have shown mild improvement in post-acne scarring after just two micro-needling sessions. Mostly after six sessions, people have seen moderate improvement in their skin texture and good enhancement of skin glow.
How long does a micro-needling result last?
Results usually vary based on the severity of the skin and its concern, its location, and the treatment plan that has been used. Your dermatologist may recommend four to six treatment sessions and the skin will continue increasing collagen production for 3 to 6 months after micro-needling treatment.
Is micro-needling better than Botox treatment?
Micro-needling and Botox both have different purposes for the skin.
Micro-needling treats scars, hyperpigmentation, and large pores by increasing the production of collagen cells in the skin.
Botox injections prevent certain muscles from contracting and forming wrinkles and give you a youthful look.
If you are looking for a female dermatologist near you can get an immediate appointment at Premier Dermatology and get your treatment done. At our clinic, we understand the urgency and convenience of every individual, so we have walk-in dermatologist appointments available.
Reference links-
American Academy of Dermatology
Hair Loss (Alopecia): Causes, Symptoms, and Regrowth Options – Healthline
Microneedling > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine
Collagen | The Nutrition Source – Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
