FAQS – MICRONEEDLING
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling – it is a skin treatment procedure that involves an Microneedling electric machine, headpiece and a needle cartridge that contains anywhere from 9 – 12 very fine needles. Microneedling procedures cause microtrauma to the skin which breaks down old scar tissue and push skin cell generation. Cell production leads to the creation of new layers of elastin and collagen fiber and leads to improved blood flow in the skin.
How does microneedling work?
Using a serum, the devices handpiece with the needle attachment slides along the skin and penetrates upper layers of the skin to a depth of up to 2mm to create tiny needle wounds (microtrauma). This signals the body to respond by producing collagen and elastin fibers. As a result, the skin becomes fuller, thus reducing the appearance of scars, lines, and wrinkles.
What conditions does Microneedling treat?
Some of the conditions that medical microneedling is known to improve include: mild to moderate acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, skin texture and pore size, and stretch marks.
What should I do to prepare for my treatment and why?
Following the right pre-treatment instructions ensures that your treatment will go smoothly and helps minimize side effects.
Pre-Treatment Tips
Avoid Accutane in the six months prior to beginning your treatment sessions.
Do not use topical agents that may increase the sensitivity of your skin such as retinoids, exfoliants, topical antibiotics or acids 5-7 days prior to your treatment.
Do not take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, Motrin, or Advil for at least 3 days prior to your microneedling session. These will interfere with the natural inflammatory process that is critical for your skin rejuvenation.
Avoid IPL/Laser procedures, unprotected sun exposure, or sunburn for at least 2 weeks prior to your procedure.
No waxing, depilatory creams, or electrolysis to the area being treated for 5-7 days prior.
Do not shave the day of the procedure to avoid skin irritation. If there’s dense hair present in the treatment area, shave the day before you arrive for your appointment.
If you’re prone to cold sores, take an antiviral agent like Valtrex for 2 days prior to and the day of the treatment.
Avoid blood thinning agents for one week prior because bruising is a common side effect of microneedling.
Does it hurt?
Everyone’s pain threshold is different. We do apply a topical numb cream for 20 min prior to the needling to keep you comfortable during the service.
What will I look like after the treatment?
Most people will notice redness and mild swelling similar to slight sunburn for 24-48 hours and there may be slight pinpoint bleeding and/or bruising. Skin will be noticeably smoother and more radiant within a week or two. Full results will take a few months to appear.
What should I avoid on my skin after the treatment?
AHAs (glycolic Acid), retinol, acidic or active ingredients should not be used for a minimum of 1 week after treatment to allow for maximum healing. You must wait a minimum of 2 days before wearing makeup. You do not want to clog up all your new open pores. Sun exposure is not recommended and sunscreen is encouraged.
What are the healing stages like?
Day 1-3 has a sunburn-like effect this is normal. Your skin may feel tight, dry or sensitive to touch. Treat the skin gently by washing it with a gentle cleanser, cool water, and using only your hands to pat dry no earlier than 4 hours after treatment. Some redness may also be present and in some cases, patients may experience slight bruising that can last for 5-7 days and temporary swelling for 2-4 days.
Day 2-7 Peeling may start 3-5 days after the treatment. You’ll notice skin dryness and flaking which is due to an increased turnover of skin cells. DO NOT pick, scratch, or scrub at treated skin. You must allow the old skin to flake off naturally and keep it moisturized at all times.
Day 5-7 You may start your regular skin care products again, once your skin no longer feels irritated. However, if you plan on continuing with multiple treatment you must NOT use any topical agents that may increase the sensitivity of your skin such as retinoids, exfoliants, topical antibiotics or acid until all treatments are completed.
Does Microneedling really work?
Microneedling is supported by clinical studies, and shown to be an effective non-surgical and non-ablative treatment for a variety of skin conditions. These include ageing, (wrinkles, fine lines, and stretch marks), scarring (acne and surgical), as well as cellulite and hyperpigmentation. Studies have also shown that microneedling is often a better treatment than dermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing. It is proven to be just as effective in its ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Regular microneedling can thicken skin, smooth scars of all sizes, and erase wrinkles.
When will I start to see the results?
Around the 4–6-week mark. This triggers your body’s wound healing processes to heal your micro wounds immediately. However, the most dramatic results will not be visible until four to six weeks after treatment. It takes roughly this long for your body to create new, strong, healthy collagen
What if I have deep scarring?
Those with deep acne scarring or hyperpigmentation conditions. Repeat treatments of up to 3-5 treatments may be necessary.
For a scar reduction and skin tightening we recommend 4-6 treatments depending on how deep.
For stretch marks we recommend 4-8 treatments depending on how deep.
Although this treatment has been proven to improve and repair, each client’s results are different and can never be guaranteed.
Can Microneedling ruin your skin?
Even though microneedling procedures are considered more effective than more aggressive treatments for acne scarring. Like any procedure, microneedling can cause possible complications, including bleeding, bruising, infection, scarring, and pigment problems.
What parts of the body can the treatment be performed on?
The treatment can be carried out on the face, neck, décolleté. However, It can also be done on the thighs, buttocks, hips and abdomen. A consultation for cost and treatment plan will need to be made to have any type of body treatments done. Depending on the surface area, body treatments usually start at $400+gst per session.