It is easy to understand why microneedling is growing in popularity. Apart from it being effective in enhancing skin texture, it can also fight dull complexion and boost collagen and elastin production. It can do a lot of things in improving your overall skin quality, giving it a more glowing and youthful appearance.
If you are thinking of giving this treatment a try or wondering how it could transform your skin, continue reading. This article discusses what microneedling exactly is, its uses, different types, benefits, and results.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that provides skin renewal in the face and other areas of the body. It uses a handheld or pen-like device with tiny or microscopic needles that pierce the skin in a controlled manner. These tiny holes in the skin cause the body to think that there is a wound in the area, activating the immune system and the healing function of the skin.
What happens next is the body then disinfects the wounds. This gets rid of the debris while also increasing blood flow and providing nutrients and water to the area. The body will then start the process of creating new tissue, which helps fight different skin ailments. This also boosts collagen, which is an essential protein that provides strength and elasticity to the skin.
Microneedling’s ability to increase collagen production is the reason why it is known as collagen induction therapy. It is typically performed on the face but can be done on other areas of the body, such as the neck, décolleté, stomach, and legs.
Check out the five reasons to try microneedling.
Microneedling can be done at home or in-office, but the latter is recommended if you want effective treatment. The needles in the device used in clinics are slightly sharper but are safe when used by a professional. At-home devices are designed to be gentler and less aggressive to reduce the risk of skin injury.
Here are a few of the microneedling devices available:
Derma rollers – These are small handheld devices with a roller head (small wheel) covered with miniature needles. They are commonly used on the face to improve fine lines, acne scars, and skin discoloration.
If you’re using a derma roller, be sure to learn how to sterilize the device. Keep in mind that not cleaning it properly may cause the dirt and dead skin on the tool to be rolled again into your skin. There is also the risk of scars or damage, especially when used incorrectly or when the wrong needle size is used.
Dermapen 4 – At Cutis, we use the Dermapen 4 microneedling device, which has 16 microscopic needles that can create 1920 holes per second. One thing that sets it apart from other devices is that it has a dedicated scar setting and protocols for the revision of different types of scars. Its needle depth can also be adjusted.
Dermapen 4 repairs the skin by igniting collagen and elastin, as well as promoting optimized cell function without the risk of hypopigmentation and heat injury. There is also no risk of cross-contamination with sterile and single-use stainless needles that won’t bend or break.
It is also worth noting that Dermapen 4 has a range of serums specifically designed for skin needling. The Meso Glide or MG-Collection serums help create a customized treatment based on your skin concerns and can address different skin issues including scarring, skin discoloration and pigmentation, breakouts, and signs of aging.
RF Microneedling – This device uses fine needles and radiofrequency waves that produce thermal energy. It heats the skin’s underlying layers, which causes constriction and tightening of the skin. It also helps stimulate collagen and elastin production. It generates fewer microchannels and is mostly used for lifting the skin and thickening the collagen.
At Cutis, we have a skin rejuvenation treatment, called Imperium Deep Restoration, that features the use of fractional pulsed crown RF. This device creates125 holes in the epidermis and emits pulsed radiofrequency energy. This leads to thermal stimulation in the deeper dermis, which along with the mechanical action of perforation, brings several skin benefits.
As previously mentioned, microneedling remodels and repairs the skin by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. It can help soften the skin’s texture, as well as treat acne and acne scars and reduce the appearance of fine lines and aging. It can also help even out your skin tone.
As the treatment involves needles, you may be wondering if microneedling hurts. The procedure isn’t too painful, but it can be uncomfortable for some patients. This is especially true for those who are afraid of needles or when the microneedling is done incorrectly. Some areas can also be a little more uncomfortable like the forehead (bony areas) and around the upper lip.
The good news is a topical anesthetic can be used to increase patient comfort. It is also worth noting that our clinic’s choice of device, Dermapen 4, has the AOVN4, which helps ensure that patients are at ease and comfortable. Its use of oscillating technology translates into minimal discomfort, so the treatment can be done even without numbing cream.
Another thing that can help minimize discomfort after the procedure is to make sure you follow all post-care instructions and apply the prescribed cream or lotions to reduce inflammation and keep the skin moisturized.
With Dermapen 4, you may be able to see initial improvements after the first session, but significant results appear after three to six treatments, scheduled two to eight weeks apart. Your skin’s condition will continue to improve over the next six to 12 months after several sessions.
For optimal results, it is recommended to leave microneedling to the professionals. DIY microneedling is not always advisable, as at-home devices use needles that are shorter and duller than automated ones. There is also the risk of infection without proper sterilization.
After the procedure, it is likely for the skin to experience mild redness. This is temporary and can last for a few days to a week and depending on how sensitive the skin is. Some patients may also experience dryness, peeling, or tenderness as the skin undergoes the healing process before revealing smooth skin.
You may also be glad to know that most patients who undergo microneedling don’t experience serious side effects. Also, side effects experienced with Dermapen typically subside within 48 hours.
Want to learn more about microneedling and what it can do for your skin? Contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore today and schedule a consultation with our aesthetic doctor to find out if the procedure is right for you.
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