Microneedling is a prominent method of skin rejuvenation that doesn’t require invasive intervention or unwanted side effects. By stimulating collagen production, this method aids in the improvement of wrinkles, acne scars, and stretch marks. In this article from Lona Spa Calgary’s website, all critical aspects of skin rejuvenation with Microneedling are reviewed.
What is Microneedling? The Modern Technique for Skin Rejuvenation
Microneedling is an innovative skin care technique recognized as a mechanical method to stimulate the skin. This process creates millions of tiny microchannels in the skin using very fine needles. As a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure, Microneedling is highly effective in improving skin issues by stimulating collagen production. This method is sometimes also known as “collagen induction therapy.”
Microneedling can assist individuals looking to reduce acne scars, skin laxity, or diminish skin elasticity in various facial areas. Moreover, this method can be combined with other skin rejuvenation procedures, such as mesotherapy, to provide enhanced skin benefits.
Applications
Microneedling is a widespread and practical approach to enhancing skin appearance and can be utilized for diverse issues. Generally, it is used to solve different skin problems, treat various symptoms, and rejuvenate either the entire or specific facial regions. Some of the essential goals and applications of Microneedling include:
– Smoothing out wrinkles: Microneedling is recognized as an innovative method to reduce facial wrinkles.
– Treating scars (acne and blemishes): This method is effective in diminishing scars resulting from acne and other blemishes.
– Treating scars (injuries and cuts): assists in improving scars caused by wounds and surgeries.
– Reducing stretch marks: To combat skin stretch marks, especially in areas like the abdomen and thighs, Microneedling is known as an effective solution.
– Treating superficial skin burns on the face and body: This method may be helpful in bettering and treating superficial skin burns.
– Eliminating dark spots and different skin pigmentation: For changing the appearance of dark spots and skin pigmentation, Microneedling is an effective solution.
Important Note:
While Microneedling can be applied to skin issues across the body, it is typically recommended for the face on the first instance. Additionally, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist to examine the best solutions and combinations for your specific needs.
Ideal Candidates for Microneedling
The ideal candidates are primarily individuals who:
1. Are clinicianly healthy: Individuals should be in suitable general health.
2. Have not responded to topical treatments: Those with skin problems that haven’t reacted to conventional and superficial skin treatments.
3. Consult with a skin specialist: It is crucial to consult a dermatologist before undergoing Microneedling to ensure the method is suitable for the skin type and individual conditions.
Individuals Who Should Not Perform Microneedling
Individuals who should avoid Microneedling include:
- Pregnant women
- Those with blood clotting disorders
- People who recently had radiation therapy
- Those with active viral diseases (e.g., herpes)
- Individuals with a history of keloids or hypertrophic scarring
- People severely allergic to local anesthetics
- Those with active acne
- People with active skin diseases like psoriasis or eczema
- Individuals with open or unhealed wounds
How Microneedling is Performed
Microneedling is a therapeutic procedure carried out as follows:
– Consultation with a doctor: Before any treatment, a consultation with a dermatologist is critical. Here, treatment goals, skin type, and skin issues are evaluated.
– Determining needle depth and speed: The doctor adjusts the needle depth and speed based on the skin type and associated problems. These settings can be accurately tailored for each individual.
– Local anesthesia: Before starting the treatment, to minimize the chance of pain, local anesthesia is used. This anesthesia is typically applied an hour before treatment.
– Use of fine needles: The physician then punctures the second layer of skin (dermis) simultaneously with several fine, sterile needles using a Microneedling device. These needles are so small that most people won’t feel them during the procedure.
– Stimulating the immune system: This process stimulates the body’s immune system, leading to increased release of growth factors, collagen production, elastin, and enhancing the thickness of the first skin layer (epidermis).
– Duration: The Microneedling procedure takes around 30 minutes. This time span is sufficient for the body’s immune system to be activated and begin the collagen and elastin production process.
– Results: The positive results of this treatment include increased firmness, maintenance of the skin’s elastic properties and overall rejuvenation.
Microneedling depth chart
This is the protocol we recommend you follow when you micro needle to ensure you have a safe, comfortable experience.
Region | Thin skin | Thick skin |
Forehead | 0.25-0.5 mm | 0.5-0.75 mm |
Between eyebrow | 0.25-0.5 mm | 0.5-1.0 mm |
Nose | 0.25 mm | 0.5 mm |
Eye area | 0.25 mm | 0.25-0.5 mm |
Cheek bone | 0.5 mm | 0.5-1.0 mm |
Cheek and chin | 0.5-1.0 mm | 1.0-2.0 mm |
Upper lip | 0.25 mm | 0.25-0.75 mm |
Facial scarring | 1.0-1.25 mm | 1.5-2.0 mm |
Stretch mark | 1.5-2.0 mm | 1.5-2.0 mm |
Surgical and burn scars | 2.0-2.5 mm | 2.0-2.5 mm |
Risks or Side Effects of Microneedling
Like any other treatment method, Microneedling can be associated with risks and side effects. Understanding these risks and how to manage them is important for those deciding to proceed with this treatment. Side effects of Microneedling may include:
– Minor burning and redness: This is the most common side effect, usually occurring immediately after treatment. It is typically temporary and can be controlled with medications prescribed by the doctor.
– Swelling and discomfort: Some mild swelling and discomfort may occur for a few days after treatment.
– Mild bleeding: There can be minor bleeding in some cases, but this is generally temporary.
– Bruising: Bruising may also occur, especially in individuals naturally prone to bruising.
– Infection: Although rare, any skin injury can increase the risk of infection. Meticulously following post-treatment care instructions is crucial for preventing this risk.
– Peeling or skin flaking: In some cases, exfoliation or flaking may occur in the treated area.
Preparations Before Microneedling
1. Consult with a physician: Before any treatment, a consultation with a dermatology specialist is essential. During this step, treatment goals, skin type, and related skin issues are reviewed.
2. Discontinuing medications: You may need to stop taking specific medicines, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and acne medications, before Microneedling. Always consult your doctor about stopping medications.
3. Stopping the use of retinoids: The doctor may recommend stopping the use of topical retinoids before treatment to improve the results and reduce the risk of side effects.
4. Quitting smoking: Before Microneedling and other cosmetic procedures, it’s best to stop smoking. Smoking can slow skin healing and increase side effects.
5. Adhering to prescribed medications: If you’re taking prescribed medications, be sure to take them timely and accurately. Also, discuss any changes in your medicine with your doctor.
All these measures aim to improve Microneedling outcomes, reduce risks and side effects, and ensure your skin’s health.
Post-Care
– Skin care: Use gentle skin products in the first days following treatment. Avoid pulling or scratching treated areas.
– Avoiding makeup: Avoid applying makeup on the treated area on the first day after treatment. After a few days, you can use a light concealer to cover redness.
– Sun protection: Using high-SPF sunscreen is essential to protect the skin from the sun.
– Proper hydration: Keeping the skin well-hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
– Avoid intense activities: Refrain from heavy activities that cause excessive sweating in the first few days after treatment to prevent further skin irritation.
– Diet and supplements: Eating foods rich in vitamins and nutrients can help the skin healing process. If recommended by the doctor, specific supplements might be beneficial for faster recovery.
– Treatment follow-up: Several treatment sessions may be needed to achieve desired results. A dermatologist will recommend a treatment plan based on your skin’s condition and needs.
– Maintaining hygiene: Ensure that any products or equipment that come into contact with your skin are clean and sanitized.
Remember that skin after Microneedling requires special care due to collagen stimulation and reconstruction. Consulting with a dermatologist for follow-ups and specialized advice during this period is highly important.
If you’re looking for an effective method for rejuvenation and improving your skin’s condition, Microneedling at Lona Spa Calgary may be an excellent option. This modern aesthetic technique, helps stimulate collagen production in the skin and thus effectively treats issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne, and scarring. Contact us at +1 587 889 6914 to book an appointment.