Microneedling (AKA collagen induction therapy and sometimes spelled micro needling) is an amazing non-surgical treatment that can help with a range of skin issues. It boosts collagen, helps reduce lines and wrinkles, smoothes skin and reduces acne scarring. Even Victoria Beckam is a huge fan! But exactly what is microneedling, and what do you need to know if you’re planning to get the treatment? In this mini guide to microneedling, we’ll run you through the facts…
The Mini Guide To Microneedling
What is microneedling?
We have a great microneedling treatment guide here with tonnes of info on what it involves, side effects and risks and microneedling cost. But, essentially, microneedling is either done by a dermaroller or microneedling pen.The device contains thousands of tiny little sterile needles that are rolled across the target area to create intentional but controlled damage to the skin. Microneedling is great for a range of skin issues - think acne scarring and fine lines and wrinkles to name just a couple. There are loads of celebrities who love a bit of collagen induction therapy too - think Victoria Beckham, who recently claimed to go for regular Skinpen sessions and Kim Kardashian, who made the vampire facial a trend a few years ago.
But what else do you need to know about before you rush out and book a microneedling appointment? Here are our top tips.
1. Know what you’re signing up for.
If you’re scared of needles, then maybe this isn’t for you. Microneedling is self-explanatory – thousands of tiny needles are rolled gently across your face (using a microneedling pen or on a roller) to create puncture wounds to your skin.
It doesn’t sound particularly pleasant but these tiny pinpricks trick your skin into thinking that it needs to “heal” and so it produces more collagen. It’s quite clever really – you’re manipulating your body to create fresh new skin without any use of chemicals or injectables. Even though the procedure is safe and minimally invasive you should only allow a trained, qualified therapist or medical aesthetic practitioner to carry out the procedure.
The procedure is used to treat a range of skin conditions and can reduce scarring from burns or acne. It is also used to produce firmer, younger looking skin.
This is Juli who has a great blog on why she loves microneedling! Check it out here https://paleomg.com/my-experience-w-microneedling-why-im-obsessed/
2. Understand the microneedling procedure
Still not convinced? Here’s what you can expect when you go for treatment. At your initial consultation with your practitioner they will tell you how to properly prepare your skin for the treatment. This might include following a cleansing routine for up to a month before the treatment. You will also be advised to avoid waxing or laser hair removal treatments on the face for up to two weeks before your session and you should also avoid using harsh, abrasive exfoliators that might irritate your skin beforehand.
Before the procedure, your practitioner will thoroughly clean your face and then use a numbing cream all over your face. They will then stretch your skin with their hands and roll a dermaroller (a pen-like device with needles) across your face. Each tiny puncture wound will bleed – if you don’t see blood then the treatment isn’t deep enough and won’t work – but this tiny amount of blood is key to the healing process which will produce plumper, firmer skin.
Once the procedure is over, a saline formula or an ice pack is applied to the area followed by collagen enhancing serum.
Juli's amazing results from microneedling! https://paleomg.com/my-experience-w-microneedling-why-im-obsessed/
3. Microneedling aftercare
Your skin will be red and sore immediately after treatment and you will need to keep it clean for a few days while the skin settles again. You should avoid using any harsh products or creams that use active ingredients such as retinol or alpha hydroxy acids for a week after treatment. This is because your skin will be highly sensitive during this time.
You will be prescribed collagen-stimulating peptides after microneedling – so make sure you listen to the advice that your practitioner gives you because these peptides are key to a quick recovery. Finally – drink that water. Staying hydrated has multiple benefits but it will particularly help your skin recover and help maintain a fresher, youthful look.
Juli's skin looks amazing after just 7 days! https://paleomg.com/my-experience-w-microneedling-why-im-obsessed/
Ready to get that post-microneedling glow? You can now choose from hundreds of medically qualified aesthetic practitioners on Glowday, offering microneedling sessions. Check them out now.