In much the same way that fractional lasers improve skin texture and youthfulness, microneedling can stimulate new skin growth by applying a controlled injury to the skin to stimulate both epidermal and dermal renewal. Microneedling devices such as the Dermapen or SkinPen provide the most consistent results. Dermarollers are typically not recommended as they can “tear” the skin as they roll. The result of multiple microneedling treatments is naturally healthy, youthful skin as new collagen, elastin tissue, and epidermis are produced, providing an overall full thickness skin rejuvenation.

What to Expect

Microneedling is a process usually consisting of 4-6 sessions as only approximately 1/4 to 1/5 of the skin is treated at any one time with the puncture of the needles. The sessions are typically spaced one month apart to allow healing after each sub-acute injury is induced.

A topical anesthetic is applied to the skin to help alleviate any discomfort to the skin that you may experience. A sterile prep must then be performed to guard against any infection, as the skin will be punctured with the microneedles. A microneedling device is then applied to the skin where tiny sterile needles are forced into the skin causing miniature puncture wounds. In response, the body stimulates healing, where collagen and elastin fibers are used to fill the little holes from the injury and promote overall healing and plumping of the skin. Also, tiny holes that are produced serve as channels to allow rapid penetration of medicine to enhance the overall skin repair and increase collagen and elastin production.

Various serums are applied immediately after the procedure to ensure maximum penetration into the dermis, where the medications provide the most benefit. Patients may experience redness, sometimes mild scabbing, and tightness of the skin which typically subsides in several days. In subsequent appointments the needles may be directed to penetrate slightly deeper into the skin, as your skin will plump and become thicker and healthier as the healing takes place.

Beautiful Skin Benefits

Why go through all the trouble of microneedling? Microneedling provides essentially the same benefits as fractional laser resurfacing at a “fraction” of the cost since the microneedling device is much less expensive than lasers. Microneedling can effect both the epidermis and the dermis to promote full thickness healing that can be very effective in treating acne scarring, wrinkles, photoaging with loss of collagen and elasticity, hyperpigmentation, melasma, sun spots, and overall skin texture. When combined with fillers, microneedling can also be a treatment option for stretch marks on other areas of the body.

Are You the Perfect Candidate?

If you are seeking solutions for mild to moderate skin issues on the face, microneedling may be the right treatment option for you. While it is not as effective as more intensive forms of therapy on more severe acne scarring or hyperpigmentation, it is appropriate for those who are seeking additional treatment options that fit in well with a comprehensive skincare routine.

The best way to know if microneedling is right for you is to speak with a skincare expert at Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Institute.