Microneedling: What to know before your first procedure

MICRONEEDLING

DEFINITION

Microneedling also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) is a minimally invasive skincare procedure involving controlled puncturing of the skin with fine sharp needles passing from upper skin layer (stratum corneum) to the epidermal layer (epidermis). Micro holes are created by the fine needles producing just enough injury to skin without damaging the epidermal layer. This micro injuries stimulate collagen production and revascularization (growth of blood vessels) in scars. Microneedling can be incorporated with PRP ( Platelet Rich Plasma) most likely extracted from ones own patient blood, exosomes or other skin booster serum for more effective results.

There are various microneedles which differ in various levels of penetration in the skin which are used to tackle different skin issues. You can buy home skincare microneedling kits though are less effective than in office ones. They can be accesorized with added Radio Frequency (RF) microneedling in form of derma-stamp, Dermapen or dermaroller.

BENEFITS

There are numerous advantages of using microneedling procedure especially when done in multiple sessions to increase as shown in here.

• Skin rejuvenation by increasing collagen production

• Reduce hyperpigmentation and melasma by incorporating with skin lightening ingredients

• Reduces acnes and stretch marks

• Reduce appearance of acne scars and post surgical scars

• Help to tighten skin after liposuction and reduce fine lines and wrinkles

WHAT TO CONSIDER

• Person in charge: certified and licensed practitioners, dermatologists or nurses, you can check this information online on reputable websites listing board certified practitioners

• Place: in certified clinic or dermatologist`s office

• Session: 3 to 4 sessions, one month apart for effective results

• Cost: depends on where you are living in the world, expensive in larger cities

• Research: do your due diligence, go for consultations in various clinic to compare price ranges and value of quality; check online reviews

• Downtime: 4 to 6 weeks

WHAT TO EXPECT

On the first week expect skin redness, tightness treat your skin gently and avoid skincare ingredients such retinol, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid) and other skin exfoliants.

RISKS

There are few side effects that may occur due to this procedure such as

• bruising

• bleeding

• skin redness

• skin itching

• possibility of local infection

• possibility of transfer of STD, oral herpes from unlicensed clinics and practitioners using unsterilized and reusable needles

CONTRAINDICATIONS

There are certain issues you should talk to your dermatologist during consultation to see for the following skin conditions

• active acne

• skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis

• patient on chemotherapy, radiotherapy or anti-coagulant drugs

FINAL TAKE

Microneedling is a good skincare procedure but should not be a substitute for daily skincare routine and being neglectful of pollution and sun damage by not wearing sunscreen/sunblock of SPF 30 to 50 or covering your skin from harsh elements.