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What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive, cosmetic treatment that is characterized by the placement of hundreds of tiny holes into the skin using a handheld device.
Smoother, firmer skin is high on the wish list of many patients, and in particular, those that would like to turn back the clock on the aging process. There are many products and treatments that claim to be able to help patients achieve this, but one of the newest cosmetic procedures, known as microneedling, is also proving to be one of the most effective.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive, cosmetic treatment that is characterized by the placement of hundreds of tiny holes into the skin using a handheld device.
Microneedling has two key purposes. The first is to create micro-wounds across the entire face. The reason for this is because creating micro-wounds prompts the skin to heal itself. For it to be able to do this, your body will increase its natural production of collagen and elastin, which are two of the key building blocks for healthy, smooth, and supple skin. As the skin heals, it will become firmer, plumper, and smoother so that lines and wrinkles are diminished, and the overall texture of the skin is improved.
The second key purpose of microneedling is to better enable the skin to absorb topical treatments. These solutions, such as anti-aging serums and creams, may then start to work more quickly and effectively. When this is combined with the natural healing prompted by microneedling, this enhances the overall effect of the treatment.
What to expect from the microneedling process
Microneedling is minimally invasive. However, as the purpose of the treatment is to cause damage to the skin, patients are provided with a local anesthetic ahead of their treatment which helps to quell any discomfort. Once the anesthetic is working, the microneedling device is applied to the skin and the process begins. The needles on the device are between 0.5mm and 3mm long, depending on the piece of equipment used. This means that they don’t look like regular needles so those with a fear of them needn’t feel concerned. The applicator is used to deliver the treatment over the target area. This could be the face, neck, décolletage or even the arms. The entire process can usually be completed in under an hour.
It is normally recommended that patients undergo several sessions of microneedling in order to achieve the best results. However, in order to give the skin time to heal and regenerate properly, these sessions should be based at least six weeks apart. Our team will be able to advise you on how many sessions you should consider.
Top benefits of microneedling
Microneedling offers patients a number of distinct benefits including:
- A minimally invasive procedure that requires only topical anesthetic
- A short procedure that can be carried out within a lunch break
- The procedure boosts the production of completely natural body substances
- Patients will see fine lines, wrinkles, and scarring diminish
- The skin will appear progressively smoother and tighter
- Patients will look more youthful after treatment
- The process is very safe and there are minimal side effects
Side effects of microneedling
It is very normal for patients to experience a few, mild effects following their procedure as the skin reacts to being wounded and begins the process of healing itself. These include swelling and inflammation, some discomfort, redness, and bruising. Some patients will also experience skin dryness and flaking as the old skin is replaced by smoother, newer skin.
You will be given specific advice to follow regarding caring for your skin following your procedure, and this will include guidelines on using topical treatments, resuming your skincare routine, and wearing SPF to protect your skin from the effects of UV light.
Microneedling is a very safe and effective treatment that can help patients to enjoy fresh, rejuvenated skin and an overall younger appearance. To find out more about this successful cosmetic procedure, please get in touch with our offices.
