Microneedling

Microneedling

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Microneedling, also known as “collagen induction therapy,” uses an FDA registered device that creates controlled wounds in the skin. By doing this, your skin starts to create healthy collagen over time, resulting in reduced scarring, texture, and pigmentation abnormalities in the skin. Your provider will apply a topical numbing solution for 20 minutes prior to your procedure. Typically, patients feel a mild sunburn sensation in the skin during and after the treatment. Over the next 1-3 days, your skin will appear red, slightly swollen, and lightly peel. During this time, it is important to keep your skin protected with moisturizers and sunscreens. Most patients require 3-6 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart. Talk to your expert provider for your tailored treatment plan.

Microneedling at the West County Dermatology works in four stages: First, your provider will identify the area to be treated. Next, fine needles are used to make numerous channels in the targeted skin. The resulting injuries trigger a natural release of healing growth factors. Finally, months of renewed collagen production cause the skin to appear smoother, firmer, and more youthful.

Micro-Needling works by creating tiny micro injuries in the skin, stimulating new cell growth. The production of these cells can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks, and irregular texture or pigment. These results may be further enhanced by adding specialized skincare products, such as Chemical Peels or Custom Facial treatments. Micro-Needling can be used on most parts of the body, but some areas are more popular than others.

 

 

 

How Micro-Needling Therapy Works

This treatment works by encouraging the skin to produce more collagen. Pinpricks, created by a dermaroller, micro needle, or SkinPen, cause minor injury to the outermost layer of the dermis. The skin reacts to these tiny wounds by producing a new, collagen-rich tissue. This new tissue creates the appearance of firmer, more clear skin.

At-home Micro-Needling devices have appeared in the past few years, but we strongly discourage the use of these tools. At-home treatments may produce a similar sensation, but the results are not often noticeable, and the lack of a sterile environment can expose a person to harmful side effects. Additionally, Micro-Needling treatment results appear gradually, with optimal results occurring 3 to 6 months after the last treatment. At-home treatments can make patients eager to see quick results. If a firmer skin texture does not appear, they may accidentally treat the skin too often, resulting in permanent damage.

If you’re interested in softer, more buoyant skin, but want to remain safe during the treatment process, make an appointment with one of our dermatologists.

Common Treatment Areas

  • Face
  • Neck
  • Chest
  • Hands
  • Stretchmarks

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