What is Microneedling?

Advanced Dermatology, PC Blog What is Microneedling?

You might have heard the term being tossed around with other common dermatological treatments, or even seen it endorsed by a celebrity or a beauty blogger. The word “needle” may be scary, but the word “micro” is the key! The procedure is a form of collagen induction therapy that uses tiny needles to get into the deeper layers of your skin. It is minimally invasive and can offer several benefits for your skin beyond what most facials provide.

Since your body can’t tell the difference between a large wound and the tiny pinpricks of a microneedle, what we’re doing is tricking your body into thinking you need the same skin toughening and collagen production a large wound would get. This improves the texture of your skin in a long-lasting way, providing fresh collagen production and younger, healthier-looking skin.

What happens during a microneedling session?

First, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed, and then, to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible, you’ll have a numbing cream applied. That will take 10-20 minutes to take effect, after which your doctor will apply a skin serum all over your face.

Then, your dermatologist will move a microneedling pen back and forth over your face, needling the serum into the deeper layers of your skin. Once that is completed, you’ll get another layer of serum, and then a mask, moisturizer and/or a sunblock may be applied on top.

If this still sounds intimidating, keep in mind that most patients experience minimal pain with microneedling. At most, you may experience redness, almost like a sunburn, but it tends to disappear quickly as your body’s natural renewing processes in.

Who is microneedling for?

It’s a great procedure for those seeking to fight the signs of aging, but it can work wonders for acne scars and large pores, too. Since the procedure involves no chemicals, it’s safe for all skin colors and most skin types. The only real exceptions are those with conditions like rosacea, eczema, or active breakouts. Talk with your dermatologist if you’re not sure whether or not microneedling would work for your particular condition.

What about after the procedure?

You’ll be red and tender for a few days, so one of the best things you can do for your sensitive skin is a mineral-based sunblock liberally applied every morning, after a mild cleanser and hydrating serum. You’ll want to skip any ingredients like retinol or glycolic and salicylic acids and avoid exfoliating until your skin has healed.

On the day of the procedure, you’ll want to avoid putting makeup on the rest of the day if possible! According to Dermatology Physician Assistant Melissa Sanoff-Wiener any makeup used in the days following the procedure should also be mineral-based.

The dermatologist or the spa?

While some spas offer microneedling services, you’re much better off getting your services from a dermatologist’s office than a spa. There are no guarantees you’ll get the kind of safety you’re looking for with spa services. Some spas even forgo the numbing cream – ouch!

Instead, get in contact with Advanced Dermatology today to schedule a consultation. We’ll answer any questions you might have and get you on your way to the best-looking skin of your life!

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