What is microneedling?

Professional microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment for skin and hair rejuvenation. A device with hundreds of tiny needles is applied to the skin to produce microscopic puncture wounds in the top layers of the skin. The body naturally attempts to repair the damage by producing collagen and elastin during healing. Boosting collagen reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smoothes acne scars, restores lost volume, and improves the overall texture, firmness and thickness of the skin. The procedure also triggers the creation of new skin cells using the body’s natural healing process. Microneedling is often called collagen induction therapy or dermal rolling.

Microneedling is not just for the face. It can be done on any area of the body where the skin needs repair including stretch marks, and acne scars on the chest, back and rear. And it is excellent to promote and restore hair growth.

The microneedling procedure

Before the procedure, numbing cream will be applied. 30 minutes later, the procedure begins, with minimal discomfort. After the procedure, soothing serums may be applied. Your face will be red for up to 48 hours. You will look like you have a sunburn.

Most patients will begin to see results within four weeks. Several treatments may be required to achieve your goals. The result is smoother, tighter skin, smaller pores, flawless looking skin, and a new soft glow that will make you look radiant.

Professional grade microneedling is very effective to minimize deep acne scars. It works like lasers, except the injury is mechanical, not caused by heat or light. Microneedling may be combined with lasers or radiofrequency treatments to produce even better results.

Microneedling advantages

• It is an office procedure that is well tolerated by patients
• It is safe for all skin types, and is suitable for sensitive and thin skin
• There is minimal downtime
• Specific areas can be treated without treating the entire face
• There is no risk of photosensitivity, and minimal to no risk of post treatment hyperpigmentation
• It can be used to treat areas that are difficult to reach with a laser, such as the upper and lower lips, and around the eyes

Microneedling with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

PRP is a valuable addition to microneedling because it augments the regenerative effects of the treatment. PRP is developed by concentrating the patient’s blood with platelets and growth factors.

PRP is created by drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, which is then spun to concentrate the platelets and transforming growth factors. The solution is then applied to the areas that have been treated with microneedling to boost the regenerative effects of the procedure, and improve the cosmetic outcome. This process is often referred to as a “Vampire facial”.

When is microneedling effective?

For patients with great skin, microneedling will provide that radiant glow. For patients with acne scars, large pores, brown spots, and fine lines and deep wrinkles, multiple treatments may be recommended.

It is an anti-aging treatment. Not only does it produce collagen, it improves the skin’s appearance by correcting damage and smoothing and tightening the skin. Studies show marked improvement in scar appearance. Microneedling will reverse sun damage and pigmentation problems. Microneedling is also a vehicle to help those expensive topical treatments to penetrate and be absorbed.

Microneedling is also used to encourage hair growth, by stimulating dormant hair follicles. One recent study reported that 82% of people who received microneedling for hair growth reported a 50% improvement versus Minoxidil alone where patients reported 4.5% hair growth.

Professional grade microneedling is the key to a great outcome. We do not recommend you use microneedling at home. In the wrong hands, you risk side effects including bruising, bleeding, pain and infection.

The effects of microneedling are permanent, but because the skin continues to age, maintenance treatments will be needed to retain the benefits.  The number of treatments will depend on the severity of your skin problems, your goals, and the results you desire. Studies show that treating the skin with four sessions spaced one month apart produced up to a 400% increase in collagen and elastin within six months after the last treatment. Patients with eczema, rosacea, active acne, dermatitis, and hypersensitive skin should exercise caution as microneedling can cause flare-ups.

Microneedling can restore your youthful skin tone and texture. At Horizon Dermatology and Cosmetic Center in Newport Beach, Beverly Hills, Torrance, Fullerton and Encinitas, CA, your health and beauty are our paramount concern. Contact us to find out how you can benefit from Microneedling.