How Microneedling Works
Are you looking for the fountain of youth? Do you want to wind the clock back ten years to a time when you had plump, glowing skin? Micro-needling could offer you the anti-aging strategy you desire. Talk to any dermatologist, and you'll hear nothing but praises about the effects of microneedling therapy.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive anti-aging practice that suits use anywhere on the body. Use it to limit the appearance of scars, encourage hair growth and exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. The process enhances collagen output in the epidermis, leading to cell regeneration and a youthful appearance.
Microneedling appeared as an anti-aging therapy in 1995, and the last 25+ years saw the practice gain in popularity, especially with the rise of social media influencers. Scroll through Instagram, and you're bound to see a few posts from top influencers showing off the effects of the treatment on their skin.
This post unpacks everything you need to know about micro-needling.
How Microneedling Works
Microneedling involves the insertion of fine and short needles into the skin using a handheld device. The needles create micro-punctures on the surface of the skin, creating a rejuvenating effect on the user.
Typically, a device like a SkinPen consists of fine needles measuring 0.5 to 2.5 millimeters in length. The pinpricks only go skin deep, and it's hardly uncomfortable, with no scar tissue created in the process.
After the medical practitioner completes the microneedling process, the skin responds in three steps.
Step 1 – The Inflammatory Response
The puncturing of the skin creates an immune response to clean the wounds while increasing blood flow to your face to create new skin cells.
Step 2 – Proliferation
The micro punctures start the healing response almost immediately, rebuilding the skin with granulation cells from the extracellular matrix. Simultaneously, the skin begins to develop a new network of red blood vessels.
Step 3 – Regeneration
The skin replaces itself with new blood vessels and dermal tissues. Looking at results, we find that 99% of patients receiving SkinPen treatments would recommend it to friends.
What are the Benefits of SkinPen Microneedling?
Using the SkinPen for microneedling beats the old method of using the traditional derma roller. Here's what you can expect from the SkinPen micro-needling process.
Fast Natural Recovery
It's a versatile treatment suitable for year-round use. Perfect for people with busy lives.
Safe for Use with all Skin Types
The SkinPen is the first FDA-approved microneedling device available on the market.
Minimal Discomfort
The microneedling process doesn't hurt, causing minor discomfort that fades quickly.
Hair Follicle Stimulation
Combining microneedling treatments with minoxidil therapy can restore hair follicle growth in affected areas.
Reduce Cellulite
The SkinPen can help reduce the appearance of cellulite, sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Get Better Results with a Serum
While microneedling is an effective practice for rejuvenating the skin, combining it with a serum enhances results. The serum helps to hydrate the skin and fast-track the healing process while improving collagen production.
You Can Microneedle At Home
Typically, microneedling sessions happen at a medical spa, dermatologist's office or an anti-aging clinic. For best results and proper technique, it's best to visit a professional such as a registered nurse or dermatologist to perform microneedling with a medical-grade device such as the SkinPen.
People with skin disorders like rosacea, eczema, perioral dermatitis, and acne should avoid using a DIY microneedling device at home, as it may induce flare-ups in your condition.
Also, there have been reports of people over-doing DIY at-home microneedling. This may result in your skin developing a somewhat plastic-like appearance from broken blood capillaries. We recommend visiting a professional microneedling provider to develop a proper microneedling care plan for the best anti-aging results.
Follow Proper Microneedling Aftercare Protocols
Be gentle with your skin after a microneedling session. After the procedure, rest for the day and avoid taking on stressful activities that might make you sweat.
So, skip the gym or that hot yoga session for the day. Avoid contact with direct sunlight and use a high-quality hydrating serum or lotion to fast-track your recovery.
