What Does Microneedling Do?
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that promotes rejuvenation for ageing or lacklustre skin, seeking a radiant, healthy skin tone. This minimally invasive treatment, also known as collagen induction therapy, has gained popularity for its ability to trigger the body's natural healing process, enhancing texture, reducing scars, and promoting a youthful complexion of cellular renewal.
How does microneedling work?
Microneedling treatment uses a tool with tiny needles to penetrate the skin. When the body heals, it produces more collagen and elastin, which helps the skin look smoother, firmer, and younger. Essentially, microneedling helps the skin to help itself, giving it a fresh start and a healthier appearance.
Microneedling Benefits
Microneedling stands out because it's safe for all skin types, including darker skin tones, without the risk of discolouration. Unlike treatments that use heat or lasers, which can sometimes cause changes in pigmentation, microneedling maintains the natural colour of your skin while still offering rejuvenation.
Microneedling is suitable for a wide range of people, especially those looking to address specific skin concerns like:
Fine lines and wrinkles like eye wrinkles
Treating acne scars
Large pores
Hyperpigmentation
Uneven skin tone
Stretch marks
Who shouldn't have microneedling?
Microneedling, while versatile, isn't suitable for everyone. Certain conditions and circumstances require caution or outright avoidance of this treatment:
Active Skin Infections or Conditions: If you're dealing with active acne, eczema, or psoriasis, microneedling could worsen these conditions.
Skin Cancers: Those with skin cancers or precancerous lesions should avoid microneedling.
Severe Skin Sensitivity: Individuals with susceptible skin may experience more intense reactions to the treatment.
Blood Clotting Issues: If you have problems with blood clotting or take blood thinners, there's an increased risk of bleeding.
Recent Radiation Therapy: Those who have recently undergone radiation treatment for cancer should consult their doctor before considering microneedling.
Pregnancy: It's generally advised to avoid microneedling during pregnancy due to the lack of research on its effects.
It's always best to consult a skincare professional to determine if microneedling is right for you, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns.
Microneedling Procedure
What happens before microneedling?
Before your microneedling session, getting your skin ready for the best possible results and minimising potential side effects is important. Avoid exfoliation in the days leading up to the treatment, as it can make your skin more sensitive to the procedure. Topical retinoids and antibiotics should also be put on hold for at least a week before microneedling. These products can affect how your skin reacts to treatment.
In the two weeks before your microneedling appointment, protect your skin from the sun by applying sunscreen. This step helps prevent sun-related skin damage that could complicate the recovery process. It's essential to refrain from shaving, waxing, or using any hair removal products on the area to be treated during the week prior to your session. Keeping your skin in its most natural state minimises the risk of irritation.
If you're using any acne medications, especially those that are prescription strength, you should pause their use for several weeks to months ahead of your appointment, depending on the advice of your skincare professional. It's recommended to steer clear of over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen before the procedure, as it can interfere with your body's natural healing mechanisms, affecting the outcome of your microneedling session. Following these preparatory steps carefully will help ensure that your skin is in the best condition to receive the treatment, leading to better results and a smoother recovery.
What happens during microneedling?
A skincare specialist will examine your skin and use a microneedling device across the top layer of your problem areas. This device makes precise, tiny punctures that penetrate the skin and stimulate the skin's natural healing process. Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure and is relatively quick, usually lasting about 30 minutes, depending on the treated area.
What happens after microneedling?
After microneedling, your skin enters a period of rejuvenation. Immediately following the session, it's normal to notice redness and swelling, similar to the effects of a mild sunburn. These signs are part of the body's natural response to the tiny injuries made by the microneedling device, starting the healing process that improves skin texture and appearance.
You'll be advised to follow a specific aftercare routine to aid in recovery. This typically includes applying a soothing serum or cream your skincare professional recommends to help calm the skin. Keep the skin hydrated and protected from the sun, as UV exposure can potentially lead to hyperpigmentation.
You'll be instructed to avoid certain activities and products that could irritate the skin for a few days post-treatment. This includes refraining from vigorous exercise, using harsh skincare products, or applying makeup for at least 24 hours.
Microneedling Results
Microneedling Before and After
The results from microneedling can be transformative, offering a noticeable improvement in skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. However, it's important to have realistic expectations about the outcomes' timeline and nature. The initial effects, such as a brighter complexion and a reduction in the appearance of pores, can be seen soon after the redness subsides. These early changes are encouraging, but the most significant benefits, like enhanced skin firmness and the diminished appearance of scars and wrinkles, develop over time as the skin produces more collagen and elastin.
Maintaining the results involves good skincare habits, including regular use of sunscreen, moisturising, and possibly follow-up treatments as advised by your skincare professional. With proper care, the improvements from microneedling can be long-lasting, providing a healthier, more youthful skin appearance.
How long does microneedling take to work?
The full microneedling results become apparent after several weeks as the skin regenerates. Skin remodelling can take up to six months, meaning your skin's condition can improve long after the treatment.
How long do results from microneedling last?
The longevity of microneedling results varies depending on several factors, including the individual's skin type, the severity of the issues being addressed, and adherence to post-treatment care. Typically, visible skin texture, tone, and elasticity improvements can last several months up to a year. However, natural ageing and environmental factors like sun exposure can influence results.
How many microneedling sessions do you need to see results?
The number of microneedling sessions required to achieve desired results varies from person to person, depending on their specific skin concerns and goals. Generally, a series of 3 to 6 sessions, spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart, is recommended for most individuals to see significant improvements. This spacing allows the skin enough time to heal correctly between sessions and allows the natural process of collagen and elastin production to contribute to the skin's rejuvenation.
For those with minor skin issues, such as slight texture irregularities or early signs of ageing, fewer sessions may be needed to see noticeable improvements. However, a longer series of treatments may be necessary for more significant concerns like deep wrinkles, considerable acne scarring, or extensive sun damage.
After completing the initial series of treatments, maintenance sessions may be suggested once or twice a year to preserve the skin's condition and to continue combating the natural ageing process.
Microneedling with The Dental Spa
If you're ready to explore the benefits of microneedling and take a step towards achieving a healthier, more youthful complexion, The Dental Spa Jersey is here to guide you. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalised care that meets your specific skin needs and goals. We offer state-of-the-art radiofrequency microneedling treatments to rejuvenate your skin with minimal downtime. Contact us today to learn how microneedling can transform your skin and help you achieve the radiant, confident look you deserve.