What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that involves using a handheld device to make tiny, controlled punctures in the skin with fine needles. The purpose of the punctures is to create micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural healing process and promote the production of collagen and elastin. These proteins are essential for healthy skin as they help to repair and regenerate damaged tissue.
What are the benefits of Microneedling? It helps to treat skin concerns such as:
- Scar Reduction (caused by acne, surgery or thermal burns)
- Fading stretch marks
- Reducing fine lines and deep wrinkles
- Tightening sagging skin
- Skin pigmentation
- Plumping up skin for more youthful appearance
- Dark spots or patches on skin (Hyperpigmentation)
- Large pores
- Helps skin elasticity
- Can help with hair loss (Alopecia)
- Acne
- Sun damage
Recommended no of treatments: Wrinkles and stretch marks = 4-10sessions
- Scar reduction = 6-10sessions
Frequency:
- 4-6 weeks between treatment
What are some contraindications of Microneedling:
- Scar easily and prone to keloid scarring
- Pregnant (because of delayed healing)
- Open wounds and active acne (more than 30%)
- Recent radiation therapy
- Take blood thinners daily/Photosensitizing meds
- Have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis (Active outbreaks)
- Have a bleeding disorder like hemophilia/Von Willebrand disease
- Diabetes /Smoker/ Immune suppressed (Delayed healing)
Pre Treatment:
- Client must be off any photosensitizing meds (ex. Accutane) and blood thinners for 6 months – 1 year.
- No Retinoids, Exfoliants, Topical Antibiotics or Acids 5-7 days prior to treatment as this may increase sensitivity.
- Do Not take anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen, Motrin or Advil for at least 3 days prior to your treatment.
- Avoid Laser/IPL treatments and unprotected sun exposure at least 2 weeks prior to treatment
- Don’t shave the day of the procedure to avoid irritation (shave the day before)
- Take antiviral agent 2 days prior if you are prone to cold sores.
Post-treatment:
- No makeup or products right after, avoid products with alcohol (open wounds and you don’t want to cause an infection)
- No Anti-inflammatory meds for 1 week after procedure
- No Ice on face/ Avoid Arnica/ Bromelain (may interfere with natural inflammatory possess that is critical for skin rejuvenation)
- Avoid sun tanning and prolonged sun exposure for at least 2 weeks
- After 24 hours, use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher) and wear a Hat.
- If need be, you can use painkillers such as Tylenol.