Collagen. It's a substance we have in our bodies that keeps our skin plumped and looking youthful - there's so much of it when we're young that we don't get lines and wrinkles. But alas, as we get older, like with everything, our bodies make less of it and we see the impact on our ageing faces.
But, microneedling, a treatment that Victoria Beckham absolutely loves by the way, is one way we can boost our collagen. So, what exactly is the skin needling treatment, and how does microneedling for lines and wrinkles work?
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Find a microneedling expert near you by searching on Glowday right here.
Collagen induction therapy, better known as microneedling or medical needling, is a popular aesthetic treatment that is used for a multitude of skin needs (which I’ll discuss later). The non-surgical treatment works by puncturing the skin with oscillating needles (sterile, of course) to create thousands of controlled micro-injuries via either the use of a dermaroller or microneedling pen. I know, I know - creating intentional injury sounds bizarre, but, actually, when it’s done by a medically qualified practitioner, it can have amazing results - i.e. plumper, firmer skin that looks younger, smoother and less lined. Yep, I can definitely get on board with that.
While there are at-home kits, going to a nurse, doctor or dentist is advisable as not only is this generally safer and more hygienic but they are also able to get deeper into the epidermis to give you better results (reaching a depth of 1.5mm on the face and 2.0mm on the body, depending on your needs).
How microneedling boosts collagen
So, once the trauma has been performed, the skin begins to react in the way it would if it were healing itself after a real injury. Basically, it encourages the production of growth factors, which get to work on repairing the skin and effectively initiating the production of healthy new skin. It also boosts collagen and elastin production, and, as collagen is often referred to as the scaffolding of the skin, I am totally ok with that.
And, once collagen production has started, skin becomes smoother and plumper. Pretty impressive! The best bit? As well as providing speedy results, collagen production also continues over the next few months, which means smoother, plumper skin for longer.
How many microneedling sessions do I need?
The number of treatments needed varies from person to person (a medically qualified practitioner will be able to give you a good idea of what you should expect, depending on your skin needs), but a course of 3-9 treatments is often recommended. Then, to maintain the amazing results, sessions once every 3-4 months are advised.
What else is microneedling used for?
Rejuvenated skin isn’t the only thing microneedling can deliver. The non-surgical treatment can also be used to reduce scars and acne scarring, stretch marks, large pores and pigmentation. And it can be used to boost hair growth. Not bad, huh?
So, overall, microneedling is a treatment to be reckoned with thanks to its ability to provide such fantastic results. Want more info (think dos and don’ts and side effects)? Check out our treatment guide, where you’ll be able to find out everything you need to know about microneedling.
If you fancy trying microneedling, search here to find and book a practitioner near you.
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