The idea of being pricked dozens or hundreds of times by a tiny needle probably doesn’t sound all that enticing. But, there’s a reason that thousands of men and women around the world are undergoing this treatment. It’s called microneedling, and it’s been taking the world of skincare by storm in the last few years.

But of course, there are some important things you need to know about this cosmetic procedure before you try it for yourself. Keep reading to learn the basics of microneedling, one of our favorite multi-purpose skin treatments.

 

What Is Microneedling and How Does it Work?

You might be asking yourself, “What is microneedling?” To answer your question, microneedling is a form of collagen induction therapy, i.e., a cosmetic procedure that stimulates the production of collagen in the skin. 

Collagen makes up one-third of our body’s protein composition and is vital to many of its natural processes. Today, we’re going to focus on its role in maintaining skin health. 

When it comes to skincare, collagen is by far the most important protein that we produce. It keeps our skin smooth, firm, and hydrated and is what allows the skin to repair and rejuvenate itself. Collagen is the key to younger-looking skin.

But as we get older, the collagen synthesis in our skin cells slows down considerably. This is why our skin begins to sag and develop wrinkles as we age. A lack of collagen leads to skin that has less laxity and can not bounce back so easily from the ravages of time. 

Microneedling uses an MMD Needle Pen, or similar equipment, to puncture the skin. These punctures create tiny, controlled injuries also known as micro-tears in the dermis (the lower layers beneath the surface of your skin). 

These micro-tears do not damage the top layer, but they do trigger your body’s natural healing process in the deeper layers of tissue. This includes the forced production of collagen. In short, consistent microneedling treatment can continuously trigger your body’s collagen production, allowing the collagen to repair and remodel the structure of your skin cells. 

 

What Are the Benefits?

Microneedling has a range of benefits for your skin, due to the continued production of collagen and elastin in the treated area. This is why it has become such a popular treatment for those seeking non-invasive therapy for their skin ailments. These microneedling benefits include:

• It stimulates your body’s natural healing process.
• It rejuvenates your skin and restores your radiant complexion.
• It reduces the size of your pores.
• It improves skin tone and texture. 
• There is a noticeable reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
• The lasting effects of sun damage (melasma and age spots) are reduced.
• It improves overall skin laxity.
• It improves the look of acne scars and stretch marks.
• Treatment is completely non-surgical and non-invasive, with minimal downtime required.

 

What Areas Can Be Treated?

Microneedling can be used to treat virtually any area of the body, though it is most commonly used on the face and is particularly effective when used around the eyes and mouth. It is also used on the stomach, thighs, legs, and arms, particularly to treat stretch marks, sagging, and scarring.

 

Is There Any Downtime?

This procedure is non-invasive and non-surgical, so downtime and after-care guidelines are minimal. Some people don’t require any downtime at all. 

The most common side-effects of microneedling are slight redness and minor skin irritation. Otherwise, you can return to your normal routine immediately after treatment, including work, school, and normal gym or exercise sessions. You may want to wear makeup if redness is noticeable.

You might want to opt for a hat over sunscreen for a few days after treatment as your skin will be sensitive to direct sunlight.

 

When Can You Start Seeing Results? 

Some people notice a difference immediately after treatment. For most, it will take several weeks for collagen synthesis to fully develop, so it can take time before you see results. For best results overall, multiple sessions are generally recommended. Follow-up treatments (if applicable) will usually take place 8-12 weeks after your first session.

 

Book an Appointment Today

Microneedling is a safe, non-invasive, and highly effective treatment for many of your skin problems. If you want to try microneedling, or simply want to talk to a professional about the treatment, get in touch with our team of medical and aesthetic professionals at The Ahesthetics Studio in Stafford, VA. You can call us at 540-686-1888 to arrange your first appointment, or make a booking online today.