What Is Microneedling and How Does It Work?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive non-surgical aesthetic procedure in which a device with ultra-fine needles punctures the skin to create a controlled skin injury. These tiny channels of fine needle injury stimulate the natural healing response of the skin, inducing new collagen and elastin production and attracting growth factors to the area. At the same time, serums and vitamins can be applied to these tiny microchannels to increase their absorption and efficacy in the skin. As a result, the skin is left firmer, smoother, and brighter.
Microneedling can be used to treat:
- Sun damaged skin
- Acne scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Enlarged pores
- Dull skin
- Scars
- Stretch marks
- Skin rejuvenation and tightening
How Do I Prepare for Microneedling?
Before your microneedling procedure, your board-certified dermatologist will carefully evaluate your skin and health to determine if you are a good candidate. Prior to your microneedling appointment, you should avoid:
- Concurrent Accutane treatment
- Treatments or products that increase your skin’s sensitivity, such as exfoliants or retinoids for at least a week
- Dermal fillers to the area treated for at least 1 month
- Excess sun exposure for at least two weeks
- Waxing, depilatory creams, shaving, or electrolysis in the treatment area for at least a week
What Should I Expect with Microneedling?
First, your dermatologist will apply a topical numbing agent to ensure your comfort throughout the microneedling procedure. Then, a handheld, pen-like tool is used to carefully and precisely “stamp” microneedles across the skin. The depth of the microneedling will be precisely controlled based on the treatment goal, indication, and area of the face. The microneedling procedure can typically be completed within 5 to 15 minutes depending on the treatment area and your specific needs.
What Should I Expect After Microneedling?
After microneedling, you can expect some pinkness, tightness, and mild sensitivity in the treatment area. Your skin should heal within about 24 hours after the treatment, but some residual pinkness may remain for about three days. Most patients will see an almost immediate improvement in the appearance of their skin, but the full effect of the procedure is most apparent after several months. We usually recommend a series of microneedling treatments separated by 1 month each with a few maintenance treatments a year to keep skin glowing and vibrant. The total amount of treatments ultimately depends on you and your unique treatment goals.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have cosmetic concerns such as acne scars, stretch marks, or signs of skin aging such as fine lines and wrinkles, microneedling may be a suitable solution for you. At Arlington Dermatology, you will meet with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist who can evaluate your concerns and develop a unique treatment plan that will be effective for your specific needs.
To schedule a consultation at Arlington Dermatology, please schedule a consultation or request your appointment online.
