What Effect Does Microneedling Have on Your Skin?

For results that are frequently just as successful as botox injections or surgery, people who seek younger-looking skin are increasingly resorting to a process called microneedling. Despite the fact that microneedling entails creating thousands of small puncture sites in your skin, it is actually quite safe. It is a relative newcomer to the field of aesthetic dermatology. Board-certified dermatologist Skylar Souyoul explains in an email that microneedling causes micro-injuries to the skin by puncturing it with multiple tiny needles. These "micro traumas" can lessen the visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, or scars by encouraging the development of new collagen.

The advantages of microneedling have long been hypothesized; in fact, a German dermatologist by the name of Ernst Kromayer began experimenting with the idea in 1905. Around 1995, dermatologists started performing the treatment in-office. Since then, the idea has developed into other home-use dermaroller product lines, including the one promoted by derm-gigant Rodan & Fields, albeit big-box retailers now offer significantly less expensive versions. True microneedling, however, is performed in a board-certified professional's clinic, generally by a dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon, or plastic surgeon.

Who Undergoes Microneedling?

The face is the area where microneedling is most frequently used to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, enlarged pores, and even stretch marks. Additionally, it is performed to enhance the general texture and tone of the skin. Actually, microneedling can be used to treat anything that can be made better by increased collagen production. Are you curious in how this collagen production is increased? As a result, topical skin therapies are more effectively absorbed into the skin than they would be if you just slapped them onto a solid surface.

The core premise behind microneedling is that the needle penetration induces skin trauma, which in turn sparks a "wound healing cascade." According to Jason A. Clark, a board-certified dermatologist and adjunct assistant professor in the dermatology department at Emory University, microneedling has proven to be the most effective method for drug delivery in his practice. The minute pores made draw drugs given topically into the skin, enhancing penetration.

The use of microneedling is not restricted to facial skin, though. According to Souyoul, microneedling can be applied to the scalp to promote hair growth, particularly when paired with platelet-rich plasma. In fact, one study found that males who received microneedling in addition to using a hair loss medication had considerably more hair come back than those who only took the drug. This study was published in 2013 in the International Journal of Trichology.

Is The Process Painful?

According on the gadget being utilized, the treatment may feel anything from a slight pinprick to a strong burning sensation, according to Clark. Patients who cry are not unusual, but they are not the norm. A topical anesthetic is applied by Souyoul around 30 minutes prior to the surgery. The operation is almost painless, according to her, when topical anesthetic is used. But it doesn't imply you'll be prepared to hit the clubs right away. Normally, the skin is extremely red for 12 to 24 hours before turning pink for many days. In addition, it's typical for the skin to be sandpaper-rough and peel for three to five days. Because it could trigger an inflammatory response or an outbreak of acne, makeup should not be used for 24 hours.

If patients do not follow these directions, there is a risk of hyperpigmentation, says Souyoul. "Patients should not receive microneedling if they have a tan."  Skin patches that become darker in color than the surrounding normal skin are known as hyperpigmentation, which is normally a harmless condition.Additionally, two weeks prior to each treatment and two weeks afterward, sun exposure must be strictly prohibited. You can see how important it is to fully support the sun ban when you consider that the majority of microneedling treatments require multiple appointments. Dr. Souyoul advises three to six treatments separated by one month.

Is The Process Safe?

Given the disruption of the skin's natural protective barrier, there is a danger of infection with true microneedling, according to Clark. Fortunately, microneedling is normally highly safe if performed by a board-certified dermatologist with the appropriate tools. "I am aware of at least one case of microneedling mixed with PRP or platelet-rich plasma in the medspa context where a patient may have caught HIV." Use of sterile equipment and proper pre- and post-treatment care are both essential for minimizing skin responses and other problems.