Acne scars, hyperpigmentation, sunspots, and wrinkles are common undesirable skin flaws that can make you self-conscious. Fortunately, SafiraMD Medical Aesthetics and Wellness Center offers minimally invasive treatments such as microneedling to treat such skin conditions. You may have probably heard about microneedling, considering the buzz on this cosmetic treatment. Read on to gain more insight into this procedure.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling or collagen induction therapy is a treatment that uses super-tiny needles to create small punctures on your skin’s epidermis. These micro-injuries trigger your body’s healing process, causing the body to produce new collagen and elastin and promote the turnover of new skin cells.
How painful is microneedling?
Do not fret at tiny needles piercing your skin; before microneedling, your dermatologist uses numbing cream to minimize pain during the procedure. Although the treatment is relatively painless, you may still experience discomfort, especially if you fear needles. Fortunately, there are several things you can do before and after microneedling to ease the pain you may experience. For example, before your session, avoid products that increase skin sensitivity; these include exfoliants or retinoids. Overexposure to the sun and laser treatments also make your skin more sensitive, so you want to avoid these. As for the pain after the treatment, ensure you follow all post-treatment instructions from your dermatologist.
Is microneedling a facial treatment exclusively?
No. Although microneedling is primarily done on the face, the procedure can be performed in any skin area that needs a collagen boost. For example, microneedling can help minimize the appearance of stretch marks on your chest, abdomen, butt, thighs, or legs.
How often do I need microneedling treatment?
It is safe to have a microneedling session about once a month or every four to six weeks; this frequency works best for most patients of all skin types. However, depending on your skin issues and aesthetic goals, you may need more or fewer treatments than the average range. For example, if your skin is generally fine, you can schedule your sessions every three to six months. But if you have severe issues such as dramatic scarring, plan to have one session each month for four to six months.
What does microneedling aftercare involve?
Microneedling leaves your skin sensitive; you may notice some redness and feel pain in the treated area. Your dermatologist will give you detailed instructions on protecting and caring for your skin. For example, you want to ensure you use a sunblock with at least SPF 30 or several weeks after treatment and always. Because your skin will be sensitive, avoiding strong ingredients such as retinol and acids like glycolic and salicylic is best.
Ensure your skin is hydrated with a gentle cleanse; remember to apply a mild hydrating lotion afterward. Do not use exfoliating scrubs, and also avoid rubbing or massaging your face in the days following treatment. Ideally, you want to avoid applying makeup for the rest of the day, but wearing it later at night is safe.
Book an appointment with your dermatologist at SafiraMD Medical Aesthetics and Wellness Center to know if you can benefit from microneedling.
