What is microneedling
Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, involves the use of a tool with tiny needles that make small punctures in the top layer of skin. Microneedling tools include a dermapen or dermaroller. Collagen induction treatments, which are considered minimally invasive, are performed in the office of a dermatologist or esthetician. A microneedling roller can also be purchased for home use.
Why would anyone want to have their skin pricked by tiny needles? Well, this seemingly odd practice is known to trigger the body’s natural healing process, which can help encourage collagen production, healing, and overall improvement in skin tone.
At first, microneedling was used for general skin rejuvenation, but is now used to increase collagen production and to target a wide variety of common skin issues that can be difficult to improve, including wrinkles, scars, stretch marks and even hair loss.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling or microneedling is a minimally invasive skin treatment in which a dermatologist or esthetician intentionally creates tiny punctures in the top layer of the skin using microfine needles. These needles usually measure between 0.5 and 2 millimeters in diameter. Microneedling can also be done at home with specialized tools.
This treatment is also known as collagen induction therapy, as it is known to stimulate the production of collagen in the skin, which makes it beneficial for a number of skin conditions, including fine lines and wrinkles. . Microneedling actually induces the production of new collagen in the skin, called neocollagenesis.
Collagen is the protein that gives our skin its strength and elasticity, while replacing dead cells. With age, collagen production naturally begins to slow down, which can lead to signs of aging (wrinkles, sagging skin, etc.).
The controlled skin damage produced by microneedling puts the skin into a repair mode that prompts the body to produce new collagen as well as elastin, another protein found in the skin that gives it the desired elasticity. Microneedling also encourages the growth of fibroblasts, epithelial and endothelial cells, which can result in a more even skin tone and healthy glow.
Benefits
What are the effects of micro-needling on your face? This treatment has a number of possible advantages, including
1. Strengthens collagen
As mentioned, the production of collagen in the skin is crucial for the appearance of our skin. Less collagen with age means more wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin. More collagen therefore means a more youthful complexion, and research shows that microneedling can actually stimulate collagen production. According to a 2008 study, patients treated with one to four sessions of microneedling and topical cosmetic creams containing vitamins A and C for at least four weeks preoperatively experienced a “significant increase in collagen and elastin deposition » six months after the end of treatment.
2. Improves scars
Looking for a natural way to improve acne scars? A 2009 study looked at the effects of multiple microneedling treatments on 37 patients with atrophic facial scars. Atrophic scars are embedded in the skin and form when the skin is unable to regenerate tissue. Examples of atrophic scars are those resulting from acne and chicken pox. After treatment, patients’ scars were assessed and clinically scored at the start and two months after the end of the treatment protocol.
What were the results of the study? Of the initial 37 patients, 36 completed the treatment program and of these 36 patients, 34 achieved a reduction in the severity of their scars by one or two degrees. Over 80% of patients rated their microneedling treatment as “excellent” on a 10-point scale. No significant adverse effects were recorded for any of the patients.
Even though microneedling treatment can help reduce acne scars, I want to point out that it is generally not recommended for active acne. If you’re looking for natural treatment options for breakouts, check out these acne home remedies.
3. Increases overall radiance
If you look at the before and after photos of microneedling, they can be quite impressive. After treatment, people often report an increase in the radiance of their skin.
4. Allows deeper infiltration of topical products
An in vitro study published in the European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences examined the effects of a microneedle device with different needle lengths, including 150, 500, and 1500 micrometers. Researchers studied the effects of treatment on skin surface morphology, transepidermal water loss, and the penetration and permeation of topical water-attracting compounds, such as those used in skin care products. .
After one treatment, the researchers observed a decrease in water loss which they believe is likely due to a reduction in pore size. They also noted that puncturing the skin with the microneedling tool increased the ability of water-attracting compounds to infiltrate the skin. Overall, it seems like microneedling definitely improves the skin’s ability to absorb and therefore benefit from topical products. It can also help reduce pore size and water loss from skin cells.
5. May Improve Hair Growth
A study published in 2013 divided 100 test subjects into two groups; one set was treated with conventional hair loss lotion twice daily and the other received the lotion twice daily plus a weekly scalp microneedling treatment. After 12 weeks, 82% of the microneedling group reported a 50% improvement in hair growth, compared to just 4.5% in the lotion-only group.
How does it work?
The whole microneedling process done by a professional takes about 20-30 minutes. Depending on your pain tolerance, you will find that the small needles only cause you moderate to minimal pain. It’s normal to feel some redness after this stimulating skin treatment, which can last up to two days.
How long does it take to see the results of micro-needling? It is common to see skin improvement within 48-72 hours of treatment.
How often should you practice microneedling? Is micro-needling permanent? Recommendations vary, but many professionals suggest doing four to six micro-needling treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. After that, you will most likely be ready for “maintenance treatment” six months to a year later.
There really isn’t any significant downtime after microneedling, but there are a few things you should definitely make sure of after the treatment. First, be sure to moisturize your skin with non-comedogenic products and avoid harsh and/or abrasive products such as alcohol-based toners and scrubs until your skin has fully recovered from treatment.
You will also need to avoid the gym, sauna, and direct sun exposure for at least 24 hours following the microneedling treatment, as sweating can lead to increased inflammation.
