Microneedling is one of the medical strategies you can undertake to improve the condition of your skin. This method can deliver exceptional results and is mostly pain-free.
You might want to take photos of your skin before taking microneedling services to keep track of the changes you experience during the weeks of treatment.
This article discusses all you need to know before starting a microneedling session and what to expect after. But first, our top derma roller recommendation also works as a microneedling tool to help reduce eye puffiness and wrinkles.
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What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a skin treatment method that involves puncturing the skin with numerous tiny needles to cause controlled damage to the skin. Microneedling works by causing trauma to trigger the healing process by increasing collagen production, which is also known as collagen induction therapy.
Collagen is a protein responsible for the youthful and firm appearance of the skin. Collagen depletion in the skin is characterized by wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, age spots, stretch marks, and other skin concerns. As a result, an improvement in the production of collagen after a microneedling procedure can help enhance your skin’s condition as well as boost hair growth.
The microneedling treatment can be done with a derma pen which is a pen-like tool with needles at the tip, or a derma roller, a face roller with needles.
i. The Pre-Treatment Process
Before you embark on your microneedling treatment, you’ll need to take several preparatory steps. You might have to start preparation as early as six months before. If you take Accutane for acne treatment, you’ll want to stop taking it before your first session.
Additionally, you’ll have to quit several things a week before your first treatment.
- Skincare products that make skin more sensitive
- Waxing sessions
- Blood-thinning medication
You should also avoid shaving on the day of treatment since it could make your skin more irritable.
ii. Post-Treatment Care
After treatment, you should handle your skin gently since it’ll be in a delicate state. As such, you should follow the following instructions for a few days.
- Don’t expose your skin to direct sunlight for long periods.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen which can affect the natural inflammatory process.
- Avoid placing ice on the treatment area.
- In case of pain, you should only take Tylenol or paracetamol
- Avoid intense activities that can open your skin pores
- Only wash your face with cold water using your hands
Benefits of Microneedling
1. Reducing Wrinkles and Fine Lines
As people age, collagen production reduces, which means that the skin gets less elastic. As a result, there is a development of wrinkles and fine lines. The controlled injuries caused by the microneedling device will lead to the production of more collagen and elastin. This will enhance the structure and strength of your skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet.
2. Treatment of Acne Scars
Better collagen and elastin production is crucial for addressing acne scars. This means that if you want to get rid of acne scarring on your face, you should probably book an appointment for a treatment session. Alternatively, you could invest in at-home rollers for the same results at the comfort of your home.
The channels that your doctor will inflict on your face during the microneedling procedure can facilitate better permeation of topical acne treatments. This could make them more effective in treating acne.
3. Alleviating Sun Damage
If you’ve suffered from the effects of sunburn or hyperpigmentation, one of the ways you can resolve the issue is with microneedle treatment. The sessions will increase your collagen and even out your skin tone. This will help you maintain a smooth and firm face while improving the quality of your skin.
4. Eliminating Stretch Marks
While the microneedling process is mostly done on the face, it can also be performed on other body parts. If you have stretch marks from pregnancy or weight gain, you can use microneedle treatments to reduce the visibility of the stretch marks and improve skin texture.
5. Improved Effectiveness of Skincare Products
Something else you’ll get from microneedle therapy is the better reception of beauty products. As the needles puncture your skin, they create tiny holes through which anti-aging treatments, moisturizers, and other products can enter your skin. This makes them more effective at their function.
Risks of Microneedling
Microneedling procedures are considered safe and effective, but there are some drawbacks to this treatment method. Most people experience skin irritation, among other side effects, including minimal bleeding, swelling, redness, dryness, skin flaking, bruising, and discomfort.
Severe bleeding is rare, but it could happen after deep microneedling treatments. If you have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners, you should consult your doctor or a board-certified dermatologist before participating in a microneedling session.
