Modern technology allows us to use a variety of effective, minimally painful, and non-invasive techniques to help our patients look and feel their best. Microneedling is a precise and safe procedure for people looking to improve their skin.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a non-invasive procedure that utilizes very small microneedles to help the production of collagen, which is essential for skin health and vitality. The tiny injuries in the skin prompt the body to make new tissue that is rich in collagen, promoting better tone and texture. It can improve several aspects of skin appearance, including smoothness, firmness, tone, acne, scarring, and wrinkles. This procedure can also help restore elasticity that has been lost in the skin, leading to long term results and continued confidence. It’s most commonly used for the face, but can sometimes be used to treat other areas of the body.
Who Is a Candidate for Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure, so most people are candidates. However, candidates should have realistic expectations about what microneedling can and cannot do. For example, it cannot completely get rid of scars. Ideal patients should also not have conditions that could complicate the procedure or healing process. We’ll discuss your medical history with you to determine that this isn’t the case. Finally, ideal candidates are collaborative, allowing us to help you achieve your desired results.
What to Expect During a Microneedling Procedure
We’ll go over preparation steps with you during your consultation so your skin is primed for a microneedling procedure. You might be asked to stop taking certain medications temporarily, including accutane and anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen. You may also need to avoid harsher agents, like exfoliants and retinoids.
An anesthetic will be given topically around 1 hour before the procedure starts to make sure that the skin is numb. The process itself can usually be completed in 30 minutes. We’ll use a microneedling tool, which resembles a pen, to puncture the skin. The injuries are incredibly small. The device will be moved across the skin so the results are consistent. Depending on what we discussed during our consultation, a serum might be applied.
Microneedling Aftercare
Patients usually don’t require any downtime, meaning that they can resume normal activity levels immediately. Some redness and/or irritation of the treated area is not uncommon, but this should quickly resolve itself after a few days. Try to let your skin heal for a few days before wearing makeup, and wait a week before using chemicals on the skin or spending a lot of time in the sun. After this procedure, sensitivity to sunlight will be increased. You might need to come back for multiple maintenance sessions. During the healing process, drink plenty of water and use cooling masks if necessary to alleviate discomfort.
Schedule a Consultation
Microneedling is one of the many convenient procedures we offer to patients who want a fresh look. Our skin is incredibly important, and we’re ready to give you the tools you need to have your healthiest skin yet. Schedule a consultation with us to learn more about microneedling.