All About Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy, has received a lot of press and attention over the last few years thanks to its popularity with famous faces such as Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kim Kardashian. In addition to its anti-aging benefits, microneedling goes further than other dermatology treatments to improve acne and scarring for various skin types and tones.

How Microneedling Works

As we age, the body produces less collagen and skin begins to lose its youthful firmness and elasticity. In addition to the fine lines and wrinkles that are characteristic of getting older, the skin can become slower to heal, making scars and hyperpigmentation more noticeable and prominent. Microneedling is designed to kick the body’s natural healing process into gear to rejuvenate your skin.

Using a small handheld device shaped like a pen or mini-roller, a dermatologist or professional aesthetician creates tiny punctures in the surface of your skin to stimulate new collagen and elastin production which helps fill in fine lines, plumps the skin and contributes to a younger look. It also can reduce the appearance of scarring.

Does Microneedling Hurt?

Despite the use of tiny needles, microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure with little discomfort and few side effects. A typical treatment last 15 minutes, and a topical numbing cream is applied before the procedure to minimize sensation. Because it is minimally invasive, microneedling has relatively no downtime or extended recovery period. Any redness or mild irritation that may result usually clears up within a few hours of the procedure.

Who Should Get Microneedling?

One of the benefits of microneedling is that it works on all skin types. You can use it to minimize the signs of aging or to improve your skin’s texture and treat scarring. The most common uses of microneedling include:

• Improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Reducing pore size
• Minimizing scarring
• Tightening sagging skin

Is Microneedling Safe?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure with few or no significant side effects. Recently, there has been a surge in use of at-home microneedling devices, but due to the risk of scarring and infection, it is strongly urged that this procedure be performed by a licensed dermatologist. This will insure optimal results with a minimized risk of complications.