Does Getting Microneedling Hurt? Know What to Expect

Does Getting Microneedling Hurt? Know What to Expect

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Collagen is an essential protein for your skin, providing a full, supple appearance when you’re young. Many cosmetic skin issues later in life are due to a slowdown in collagen production. This reduction often dovetails with cumulative damage from the sun and other external factors. Patients who have dull, chronically dry skin with tone and texture concerns—such as age spots, acne scars, fine lines, unevenness, and wrinkles—could benefit from a treatment that speeds up the lagging collagen production in the internal layers of the skin. Microneedling at our Missouri-based dermatology practice is ideal for these patients, and especially those whose skin hasn’t been responsive to other in-office treatments or the products they’ve been using at home.

Collagen-induction, as this treatment is known, is a minimally invasive option. It is quicker, more comfortable, and less costly for patients than a facelift or similar surgery.

Microneedling

If you’re squeamish about needles, chances are the concept of microneedling probably sounds a little intimidating. This is not like a shot or injection, however! During the treatment session, a specialized device pushes incredibly fine needles into the skin as it moves over the surface, creating tiny channels. These “micro-injuries” stimulate a healing response, prompting cells to build collagen and elastin for the repair efforts. There’s no need to worry. When performed by a trained and experienced professional—such as a member of the West County Dermatology team—microneedling causes only very minor discomfort. (And there are even ways to alleviate that.)

You can reduce any potentially unpleasant sensations with a topical numbing cream applied to your skin before the treatment. Many patients barely notice any discomfort at all.

The facial areas with more padding between skin and bone, like the cheeks, tolerate this treatment better. Even thinner areas of the face, however, can be treated with little concern of discomfort after the skin is numbed.

The entire session usually lasts for about half an hour or less. Afterward, we apply a soothing serum to the sensitized skin. Your skin will typically continue to feel sensitive after a session. But everything will quickly go back to normal—at least in terms of sensation. In the following weeks, the look of your skin will not just go back to normal, but will improve in terms of texture and clarity.

Microneedling is a popular choice at West County Dermatology for patients seeking smoother, brighter, and healthier skin. If you’d like to learn more, give us a call at 636.532.2422, or submit a contact form to request a consultation.