As an Aesthetician, I get asked a lot about the current skin treatments that help fight the signs of aging. Clients are interested in medical microneedling but get somewhat nervous because it does involve, well…. needles. So I thought I would break down some of the FAQ’s about the treatment.
What is Medical Micro-Needling?
For skin micro-needling, we use an electric skin needling device made especially for this purpose. The medical device is a pen shaped (not a roller) with a onetime use disposable tip with very fine needles. The medical device used in micro needling breaks down old scar tissue and is used to stimulate skin cells to proliferate. This cell multiplication results in the formation of new tissue layers of elastin and collagen fibers as well as in new capillaries for an improved blood supply. Medical micro-needling can be safely performed on all skin types and on all skin colors. There is minimal risk of pigment change or post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation. Skin micro-needling can treat sensitive and fragile areas that are difficult to treat with other procedures. These areas include the eyes, the neck and the back of the hands.
What conditions can be treated or improved with Medical Micro-Needling?
- Mild to moderate acne scarring; any new or old scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Skin texture, tone and pore size
- Stretch marks
How does Medical Micro-Needling work?
The device slides along the skin, penetrating the upper layers of the skin to a depth of up to 2mm to create numerous tiny needle wounds. The procedure prompts a healing cascade and the body responds through the creation of new collagen and elastin fibers. Also, in response to the stimulus, the skin plumps and thickens, reducing the appearance of scars, and fine lines and wrinkles.
What does the procedure involve?
The skin is cleaned and numbing cream is applied to lessen discomfort. For better results we use a collagen-stimulating product like Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin-C serum or skin lightener for pigmentation during the procedure. A small handheld pen like device with a sterile, disposable tip that has tiny needles is used to pierce the skin. Our needling pen’s has a multi-speed and adjustable needle depth to allow needles to pierce the skin’s layer at 90 degrees and increase the absorption of products. After the treatment, soothing serum or Hyaluronic acid are used to hydrate, heal and protect the skin.
What will I look like after the treatment?
Most people will experience redness and mild swelling in a similar way as a mild sunburn for 12-48 hours. The inflammatory reaction of the skin is extremely short and fades significantly within hours from redness to pinkish that may last for 24 to 48 hours. We now carry an oxygen peptide post procedure foundation that can be applied when your treatment is complete so you can leave our office with less visible redness. Within a week or two, you will notice that your skin is smoother and more radiant looking but the full effects won’t be seen until about 12 weeks.
What are the benefits of Medical Micro-Needling?
Dramatically increases the effectiveness and penetration of active ingredients in topical preparation
- Stimulates circulation and collagen production; improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of wrinkles
- Medical grade titanium needles makes it non-allergenic
- Cost effective compared to other resurfacing procedures; improves scar tissue when done in a series
- Can be performed on all skin types, including ethnic skin
How many treatments do I need and how often can Medical Micro Micro-Needling procedures be repeated?
Micro-needling can be safely repeated every 4-6 weeks until you achieve the desired results. For collagen induction we recommend to start with 3 treatments, but with a minimum separation time of 4 to 6 weeks between treatments. For scar reduction an average of 6-8 treatments are recommended as well as chemical peels in-between to assist in the scar reduction. When you are thinking of a series of treatments, the number of treatments required will depend on how each individual responds and the extent of the damage.
What should I avoid on my skin after treatment?
To ensure the right healing environment, for 2-3 days do not use AHA’s (glycolic Acid), retinol, acidic or “active” ingredients. Exposure to sun should also be avoided or zinc based sunblock should be used.
What are the side effects of the Medical Micro-Needling procedure?
However, it is not suitable for patients who:
- Have a used Accutane (isotretinoin) within the last three months
- Have open wounds, cuts or abrasions on the skin
- Have had radiation treatment to the skin within the last year
- Have any kind of current skin infection, condition, herpes simplex in the area to be treated
- Are pregnant or breast feeding
- Have any history of keloid or hypertrophic scars or poor wound healing
How much does the treatment cost?
This is assessed on a complimentary consultation. A treatment is mapped out for each client and the cost can be assessed at this time. This is based on a client’s unique requirements and the result that is desired. Medical Micro-Needling may be combined with other treatments as a package and the overall cost will be discussed during consultation.
Questions? Call Dr. Goldman’s office, East (216) 514-8839 | West (440) 871-8899