MICRONEEDLING: OVERVIEW
To help you decide whether this treatment is right for you, you should read the following facts.
Microneedling utilizes multiple small needles to create tiny holes in the skin in order to stimulate your skin’s own healing process which, as a result stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. These small channels also allow topical serums to be better absorbed into the skin to accelerate the process and see results quicker.
What does microneedling treat?
- Surgical and Acne scars
- Stretch marks
- Hyperpigmentation
- Wrinkles
- Alopecia (hair loss)
- Dilated pores
- Melasma
- Lentigines (Sun spots)
How does it work?
The microneedling device is similar to a pen with multiple tiny needles at the end that are adjustable in length for different treatment types and areas. The needles pulse in and out very quickly and the speed at which they do this is also adjustable. It is not a dermal roller.
When will I see results?
You can begin to start seeing results as early as 2 weeks and as late as 4-6 weeks.
Does micro needling hurt?
A numbing cream or gel is applied by a dermatologist and is left on for at least 15 minutes prior to the procedure. This minimizes any pain or discomfort. Most patients tolerate the procedure very well.
Is there any downtime?
Immediately after the procedure there is some redness in the area and depending on what was treated there may be very minimal bleeding. The area treated may look and feel like a mild sunburn for the next day or two.
Any pre-procedure care?
Patients should wash face thoroughly to remove any excess oils, lotions or makeup. If using a topical retinoid, such as Tretinoin, Retin-A or Tazorac, this medication should be stopped for three days prior to the procedure and three days after the procedure.
Any post-procedure care?
After the procedure avoid alcohol based toners for 10-14 days and direct sun exposure for at least 10 days. Avoid any sunscreen or makeup for 24 hours. After 3 days you can return to your regular skin care products.
Who should not get microneedling?
Patients who have active herpes simplex infections (cold sores), have any sores or infections on the treatment area, have a sunburn, have active pustular acne (large white heads), are currently taking Isotretinoin (Accutane) or have taken it within the last six months or patients who have a history of keloid formation should not get micro needling.
Insurance coverage: Microneedling is considered a cosmetic treatment. Insurance does not cover the cost of cosmetic treatments.
