From dermatologists, estheticians, to at-home beauty device lovers—microneedling is all of the rage. If you are unfamiliar with this effective and versatile non-invasive aesthetic treatment, it is time to brush up on the reasoning behind why microneedling is so immensely popular for practitioners and clients alike.
Below we answer your burning questions so you understand the fundamentals about this novel approach to anti-aging.
Below we answer your burning questions so you understand the fundamentals about this novel approach to anti-aging.
What Is Microneedling & Where On The Body Can It Be Used?
The practice of microneedling dates back to the mid-90s, but has gained cult-like notoriety over the last few years—in part due to social media. Microneedling is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes a device (usually a roller or a pen) with very thin, sterile needles to puncture the skin. The tiny punctures create a natural wound healing response in the body where fibroblasts are sent to the treatment areas to stimulate new collagen and elastin. It is basically a way to trick the body into thinking it has been wounded and in the process helps to thicken skin, improve texture, and minimize pore size and acne scars.
Microneedling is a very versatile treatment option because it can be used on the face, the body, and even the scalp to help stimulate new hair growth in conjunction with topical treatments. In fact, in a recent study 100 subjects were divided into two groups—one that solely used minoxidil lotion and the other that received microneedling first followed by an application of minoxidil lotion. After 12 weeks, 82% of the microneedling group reported a 50 percent improvement versus 4.5 percent of the minoxidil lotion-only group.
Microneedling is a very versatile treatment option because it can be used on the face, the body, and even the scalp to help stimulate new hair growth in conjunction with topical treatments. In fact, in a recent study 100 subjects were divided into two groups—one that solely used minoxidil lotion and the other that received microneedling first followed by an application of minoxidil lotion. After 12 weeks, 82% of the microneedling group reported a 50 percent improvement versus 4.5 percent of the minoxidil lotion-only group.
Why Is It An Effective Anti-Aging Treatment?
As we stated above, microneedling treatments initiate a biochemical response in the body. Wherever the needles are inserted, a natural wound healing process begins to take place that stimulates new collagen and elastin production. The results include improved texture and tone of the skin, reduced hyperpigmentation and scarring, and a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. In a 2008 study, the participants were treated with four microneedling sessions spaced a month apart. Six months after the series of treatments, the results revealed up to a 400% increase in collagen and elastin.
Does Microneedling Hurt?
With the word needle in it, microneedling may conjure up some ideas that it is a painful treatment method. While pain is relative, if you have concerns about the sensation, you can ask that a numbing cream be applied to the treatment area. Most people wouldn’t say that microneedling hurts, but they also don’t say that it feels good either. But overall, it is a relatively painless treatment that requires no downtime when performed by a licensed skincare professional. The treatment area may be a little red for a few hours and exhibit some tiny pinpoint bleeding. But you should be able to resume your normal skincare and activities the following day. However if microneedling is not done by a professional there can be risks associated with the treatment including scarring, hyperpigmentation, bruising, and infection.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
How many sessions are needed is really going to depend on the severity of the skin issue. If the skin is normal and well taken care of, microneedling every three to six months should suffice. However, if someone has dramatic acne scarring, for example, the individual should plan on doing a series of treatments over a period of months. With that said, typically 4-6 treatments do the trick. Either way, it is important to have the treatment done by a licensed skincare professional.
How Do At-Home Microneedling Devices Compare To In-Office Treatments?
When microneedling is administered in-office by a professional, the needles are much longer than at-home devices, which means they penetrate deeper into the skin. At-home rollers are safe to use, but the results may not be as dramatic when compared to an in-office treatment. If you do choose to microneedle at home, make sure that the skin is thoroughly cleansed prior to the treatment and that a soothing serum is applied after the treatment.
Conclusion
Regardless of whether or not you are a practitioner at a medspa, a beauty business owner, or simply a beauty lover who likes to extend the in-office results with at-home devices—microneedling is a great treatment option that addresses a variety of existing skin concerns as well as helping to stave off future signs of aging skin.
