Microneedling, also commonly referred to as micro needling. Is an emerging skincare treatment that involves the use of fine needles to create tiny channels in the top layer of your skin. It’s believed these micron-sized tears in the skin help boost absorption of active ingredients and increase collagen production for a more youthful appearance.
These benefits are mostly seen after continued use of this treatment on a regular basis, not just one time. As you can imagine, this isn’t exactly something you can do at home. Unless you have some serious DIY skills! This is why so many people opt to go to a salon or spa instead when looking for microneedling skin care services.
What Is Microneedling?
Let’s start by getting a better understanding of exactly what microneedling is. Basically, it is a process where tiny needles are used to create tiny channels in your skin to promote cellular turnover and collagen production.
The idea is that these channels, or holes, will encourage the flow of natural healing properties in the body. Such as growth factors and stem cells, to promote new collagen production, leaving you with tighter, firmer skin. Microneedling can be done with many different types of microneedling devices. Some of the more popular devices include rollers and needles.
Each has a unique way of creating channels in the skin. So it’s important to know which type of device your practitioner is using. It’s also important to note that microneedling with a roller-type device is completely different from microneedling with a needle. The latter is done with a handheld device. Whereas the former is done with a large roller with many tiny needles attached.
What are the Benefits of Microneedling?
- Reduces the Appearance of Wrinkles and Fine Lines: As we age, the collagen in our skin begins to break down. Which leads to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Microneedling can help boost collagen production, which will in turn help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Tighter, Firmer Skin: As we age, the elasticity in our skin starts to fade. Which can lead to the appearance of loose, sagging skin. Microneedling can help boost collagen production, which will in turn help increase the elasticity of your skin, leading to a firmer appearance.
- Increased Collagen Production: As we age, the amount of collagen in our skin naturally starts to decrease. Which can lead to the formation of wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity. Microneedling can help boost collagen production, which will in turn help improve the appearance of your skin.
- Increased Vitamin and Mineral Absorption: Microneedling can help increase the absorption of your skincare products through your skin, which can lead to a more radiant, glowing complexion.
- Improved Overall Skin Health: As we age, our skin can become more prone to both visible and non-visible signs of aging. Microneedling can help improve the overall health of your skin, which can lead to a more youthful appearance.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Microneedling works by creating tiny channels in the skin using fine needles. These tiny channels help to increase the flow of blood and other healing properties to the top layer of your skin. Which can lead to a more youthful appearance.
It also works to increase the absorption of your skincare products and improve the overall health of your skin. Practitioners recommend at least 6 to 8 sessions. Spaced out at least 1 week apart, to see the best results from this treatment.
Side Effects of Microneedling
- Potential for Bruising and Swelling: Some people experience mild bruising and/or swelling after getting microneedling done. The severity of these side effects will depend on a variety of factors. Such as your skin type, the device used, and how many passes are made.
- Skin Infections: Since microneedling uses needles to create the channels in your skin. There is a potential for bacteria to get into those channels. This can lead to a skin infection, which has been reported by a minority of users.
- Infection with the Herpes Virus: If a person touching the microneedling device doesn’t wash their hands. They could potentially pass the herpes virus on to the clients. This is why it’s important for the person doing the microneedling to thoroughly clean their hands before touching the device.
- Scarring: While unlikely, there is a potential for mild scarring after receiving microneedling. The likelihood of this happening will depend on your skin type and how well you take care of your skin after the treatment.
Is Micro-Needling Right for You?
Microneedling is suitable for most skin types, but it is important to talk to your dermatologist beforehand to make sure it is right for you. You should be aware that this is a treatment that will most likely require continued use on a regular basis in order to maintain the results.
Also, keep in mind that the results won’t happen overnight—it will take time for your skin to heal and for new collagen to be produced. Bottom line: you will have to be patient, but it will be worth it in the end.
If you are interested in trying microneedling, you should know that it is not cheap. Microneedling sessions can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 per session, depending on where you go. But don’t worry—you can get great deals and discounts on Groupon Coupons.
