Microneedling
Microneedling
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a fine needles to create microwounds, or channels, in the skin. A handheld pen shaped device with tiny needles creates precise, microscopic punctures int he skin. This tiny punctures do not leave scars, but instead work to stimulate the skin to repair itself naturally. This triggers the production of collagen and elastin which help keep the skin smooth and firm. This is also known as collagen induction therapy.
This process starts with inflammation, which stimulates the skin to produce new collagen (the elastic fibers that make skin tight, smooth, and youthful). Collagen levels in the skin decline as we age, and new collagen can be produced when the skin is in repair mode.
This process stimulates collagen production to increase cellular turnover and improve the skin barrier’s resilience to treat uneven skin texture, brighten skin tone, provide anti-aging effects, and help reverse sun damage.
Treatments have minimal downtown. Topical numbing medication is applied to the skin before the procedure to keep the procedure comfortable.
The skin that grows back is thicker and smoother. This can target:
Fine lines
Wrinkles
Stretch marks
Decreasing large pore size
Acne scars
Scars
Hyperpigmentation
Microneedling Post-care
The microneedling healing process should take between 5-7 days. Your skin will look red and mildly inflammed after the procedure and feel like it’s sunburned immediately after the treatment. After the redness resolves it is normal to have dry, flaky, and mildly itchy skin for a few days. Your complexion will feel tighter, warmer, and more sensitive than usual.
Day 0: Expect your skin to be red and mildly inflammed. After the procedure do not apply any products to your skin for the remainder of the day, other than lukewarm water if needed.
Days 1-3: Expect your skin to be the most inflamed during the first 1-3 days of the healing process. Your skin could appear bright red for up to 24 hours before subsiding and reverting to its normal hue over the next couple of days. During this recovery window, you will need to be extra mindful of the products you use and avoid anything that could introduce bacteria to the vulnerable skin. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and follow with a natural moisturizer. Pat your face dry with a fresh towel and carefully tap your moisturizer into your skin. Hyaluronic acid, peptides, ceramides, and vitamin E serums can be used at this time.
Apply sunscreen every day after microneedling, especially for the first two weeks.
Days 3-5: The peeling stage of the microneedling healing process will begin. This flaky skin shows signs of cellular turnover – an important part of the wound-healing process. Do not touch or peel off the skin.
Days 5-7: The skin cells should continue repairing themselves, and any irritation should subside. While the recovery process should be mostly over, it could take up to another week to build up your skin barrier strength and resilience. You can reintroduce retinols, vitamin C serums, or back into your skincare routine at this point.
SUN EXPOSURE
Your skin is particularly sensitive to sun damage and harmful UV rays right after microneedling. Avoid exposing your skin to direct sunlight for at least 14 days after microneedling. Apply sunscreen with at least 30 SPF every day and right before going outside (especially for the first week after your treatment).
Remain Bare
Avoid wearing makeup or any cosmetics for at least 24 hours after your microneedling treatment. It is best to wait at least 72 hours before applying products aside from nourishing skincare to your face. If you do choose to wear makeup within the first few days after microneedling, always apply your cosmetics with clean hands or a disposable applicator. Never use a regular makeup brush, which can allow unwanted bacteria to enter the fresh wound.
Don’t Sweat
Sweating and excess moisture increase the likelihood of bacteria, fungus, and other unwanted microbes infecting the already-weakened skin barrier. Avoid intense exercise, saunas, hot showers, and baths for at least 3 days after microneedling. Refrain from going into pools, hot tubs, lakes or oceans for one week after microneedling. The moisture and unknown microbes in the water could easily harm your healing skin.
Embrace Inflammation
Never put ice on the skin after microneedling. Your face may sting a bit during the first 1-3 days of the healing process and tempt you to engage in this wound-soothing activity. Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications or supplements for at least one week after microneedling. The inflammation is actually beneficial and this process is essential to properly restore, heal, and strengthen your skin barrier.