The Science and Benefits of Microneedling
Microneedling is a popular skin treatment that focuses on improving the appearance and health of the skin by stimulating its natural healing process. It involves using a device that creates tiny microchannels or micro-injuries on the skin's surface. This triggers the body's natural healing response, producing collagen and regenerating skin. The process helps remove damaged skin layers with scars or other imperfections, leaving the skin looking brighter, smoother, and more youthful. The device used for microneedling effectively addresses multiple skin concerns, such as fine lines, scars, and uneven texture, while promoting the removal of fluids like blood, serum, and plasma from these microchannels to rejuvenate the skin.
Microneedling is a technique that uses wonderful needles to create tiny, controlled punctures in the skin. This process stimulates the skin's natural healing response, leading to the production of collagen and elastin. As a result, the skin regenerates and rebuilds itself, improving its overall texture and appearance.
One of the key benefits of microneedling is its ability to boost collagen production and increase skin thickness. This can contribute to a more youthful and vibrant look. Additionally, microneedling can offer long-term benefits by enhancing skin elasticity and providing a smoother, healthier complexion.
How does Microneedling work?
In microneedling, tiny, almost invisible holes are created in the skin. These micro-injuries are not visible to the naked eye and close up within a few hours. Any redness or swelling that appears immediately after the procedure typically fades within a few days, leaving no visible marks. Each session lasts about 45 minutes, with 30 minutes dedicated to numbing and around 15 minutes for the treatment using a Dermapen. The depth of the treatment varies depending on the area of the face being treated.
As treatment sessions progress, the penetration of topical creams and ointments is enhanced, which is one of the key advantages of microneedling. Usually, topical creams and ointments only penetrate the superficial epidermal layer and don't reach the deeper layers of the skin. During microneedling, substances like hyaluronic acid and mesotherapy cocktails can be applied to penetrate the dermal layer. Hyaluronic acid helps stimulate collagen production and promotes skin rejuvenation. Additionally, brightening solutions are used for under-eye dark circles, and anti-blemish cocktails are applied to treat skin spots.
Types of Microneedling
While the general procedure of microneedling remains the same, the reason for the different types of microneedling is the varying depth at which the skin is affected. This is determined based on the individual individual's needs. Below, we introduce the different types of microneedling.
Shallow Microneedling
In this type of microneedling, needles ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 millimeters in length and 0.1 millimeters in diameter are used.
Deep Microneedling
In profound microneedling, the needles penetrate up to about 3 millimeters into the deeper layers of the skin. This causes damage and triggers the release of growth factors in the underlying layers of the skin (the epidermis). Profound microneedling is often used for treating scars, wounds, and other deeper skin concerns.
Microneedling for Facial Pigmentation
Many believe microneedling is only effective for wrinkles, acne scars, and wounds. However, one of the most important benefits of this treatment is its ability to reduce facial pigmentation. Microneedling breaks down the fibrous tissues beneath the skin, which helps release dead skin cells. As a result, you'll achieve more precise, smoother skin. It's essential to note that a single microneedling session will not eliminate pigmentation; several sessions over months are needed. Microneedling has fewer side effects, better performance, and is more cost-effective than other methods like laser treatments and chemical exfoliants. To treat pigmentation with microneedling, the skin is initially traumatized using specialized devices, stimulating the production of elastin and collagen. As the skin starts to regenerate collagen, its quality improves, and pigmentation gradually fades.
Microneedling for Acne Scars
Acne scars, which form due to the rupture of pore walls or the constant picking of acne scabs, can remain on the skin permanently if left untreated. Fortunately, microneedling can help by stimulating collagen production, which plumps up the skin and aids in filling in scars, effectively reducing the appearance of acne scars. Microneedling also promotes the growth of new skin cells, which helps replace damaged skin and reduces the visibility of acne scars.
However, it's important to note that since acne involves bacteria, using microneedling on skin with active acne, pimples, inflammation, or cysts could lead to bacterial contamination on the needles. Since this technique creates tiny punctures in the skin, bacteria can spread quickly.
Depending on your skin type, the skincare regimen you follow before and after microneedling, and the depth of the scars, you may notice a significant improvement in the appearance of scars, or you may see little to no change. For more noticeable results on darker or deeper scars, multiple microneedling sessions may be necessary.
Manual Microneedling Method
The manual microneedling method is performed using a tool called a dermaroller. The derma roller is a cylindrical device covered with wonderful stainless steel needles, which a specialist moves in various directions across the skin. This creates tiny microchannels in the skin. The depth of these channels is fixed, and depending on the derma roller used, the needle lengths can range from 0.5 to 2 millimeters. The skin heals within 2 to 3 days without any complications.
Device-based Microneedling Method
The device-based microneedling method uses a high-speed device with great precision, which inserts a special cartridge covered with fine needles into the skin at a specific depth. The number of microchannels created using this method is much more significant and uniform than the manual derma roller method, leading to more remarkable results and faster healing. The penetration depth can be adjusted from 0.2 to 2.7 millimeters, and this method can be used on sensitive areas like around the eyes and lips. A key point in micro-needling is the use of a high-quality, suitable device.
What Materials are Used in Microneedling?
As the name suggests, micro-needling combines the words "micro," meaning small, and "needling," derived from the word " needle," referring to the process of creating tiny holes in the skin. This triggers the body's response to these micro-injuries, increasing the production of elastin and collagen, which help repair and rejuvenate the skin. This technique is a new method for treating skin conditions and is performed using a tool called a Dermapen. A topical anesthetic cream is often applied to manage pain for the client's comfort.
To enhance the skin and further stimulate the production of the two main proteins that provide skin structure—collagen and elastin—nutrient-rich serums containing vitamins, hyaluronic acid, and other beneficial ingredients are injected through the microchannels created in the skin. This leads to more transparent and more radiant skin post-treatment.
In cases where the skin damage is more severe, a procedure called subcision is performed before microneedling, doubling the treatment's effectiveness. One of the key advantages of microneedling is that it can be performed on all skin types, without pigmentation concerns, and across all body areas throughout the year. This is in contrast to laser treatments, which have limitations on darker skin tones, warmer seasons, and the sensitive regions near the eyes, where there is a risk of burning or pigmentation issues.
Difference Between Microneedling and Microdermabrasion
Microneedling and microdermabrasion are low-risk skin care methods with significant benefits that help rejuvenate and refresh your skin. Microneedling uses tiny needles for skin rejuvenation and is commonly used to diminish or lighten scars and skin discoloration and reduce the appearance of large pores. This technique stimulates collagen production in the skin, ultimately leading to skin rejuvenation and remodeling of scar tissue. It can be used on many body areas, including delicate areas around the eyes, hands, and neck.
Microdermabrasion is also a non-surgical method that enhances blood circulation in the skin and helps to renew it by removing dead and dull skin cells. This technique also reduces the appearance of pore size, age spots, acne scars, stretch marks, and fine lines and wrinkles.
One key difference between microdermabrasion and microneedling is that microneedling, in addition to its cosmetic and skin health benefits, can also help treat skin conditions such as alopecia, burn scars, stretch marks, and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). On the other hand, microdermabrasion is mainly used to treat age spots and skin dullness. Another difference is that microdermabrasion is typically limited to the face and body, whereas microneedling can also be used on the scalp, hands, and other body areas. Additionally, the results of microneedling tend to last longer than those of microdermabrasion. Microneedling is more effective for deeper scars because it can easily penetrate the deeper layers of the skin.
What is Mesoneedling, and How Does It Differ from Microneedling
Mesoneedling is a skin rejuvenation technique that combines two methods: mesotherapy and microneedling. In this procedure, mesotherapy cocktails are delivered deep into the mesoderm layer of the skin, where the treatment takes place. "Needling" refers to the use of needles, and "meso" refers to the mesoderm layer of the skin. Mesoneedling increases collagen production and regenerates the skin, resulting in smoother, younger-looking skin. It is a comprehensive treatment for eliminating fine lines, wrinkles, and scars, improving skin texture and rejuvenation.
While mesoneedling and microneedling have many individual benefits, they are primarily used for similar concerns. The choice between these two methods depends on the individual's skin condition, as that determines which technique will be most effective and significantly impact the final results.
Risks of Microneedling
Microneedling can be a positive and practical experience as long as it is performed with full knowledge and under the supervision of a specialist. Like any cosmetic treatment, micro needling carries some risks that may become problematic in some instances and should be considered:
Pigmentation Issues: While microneedling generally does not cause serious side effects, improper aftercare may lead to the development of pigmentation spots.
Infection: Tiny needles can increase the risk of infection, especially if proper hygiene practices are not followed.
Redness and Inflammation: After the treatment, the skin may experience redness and inflammation, which is usually temporary but can be concerning for some individuals.
Scarring: If the microneedling procedure is not followed by proper aftercare, there is a risk of creating new scars.
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to the skincare products used after the treatment.
Summary of Microneedling
Microneedling is a skin treatment that uses tiny needles to create microchannels in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. It helps treat acne scars, fine lines, skin discoloration, and large pores. Microneedling can be performed manually with derma rollers or devices like Dermapen for deeper penetration.
Mesoneedling is a variation that combines microneedling with mesotherapy, delivering nutrient-rich serums to enhance results. While generally safe, microneedling can have risks like pigmentation issues, infection, and scarring if proper aftercare is not followed.
When done correctly, microneedling effectively improves skin appearance and health, providing longer-lasting results. You can visit DermaSilk Clinic and benefit from their expert treatments for beauty services, including microdermabrasion.
F&Q
Microneedling is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses fine needles to create tiny, controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing response, encouraging collagen and elastin production. As the skin regenerates, it becomes smoother, firmer, and more radiant. Microneedling effectively addresses fine lines, scars, pigmentation, and overall skin texture improvement.
Microneedling offers numerous benefits, including:
- Enhanced collagen and elastin production, leading to youthful, firm skin.
- Improved skin texture, reducing the appearance of acne scars and fine lines.
- Better absorption of skincare products by opening microchannels in the skin.
- Effective treatment for hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
- Suitable for all skin types with minimal downtime.
Microneedling is performed using a device like a Dermapen, which has fine, sterile needles that puncture the skin at a specific depth. The procedure usually takes about 45 minutes, including 30 minutes for numbing and 15 minutes for the treatment. Following the procedure, topical serums like hyaluronic acid or brightening solutions are applied to enhance results.
Yes, microneedling is safe for all skin types and tones. Unlike laser treatments, it poses minimal risk of pigmentation issues. However, it is not recommended for individuals with active acne, severe eczema, or other inflammatory skin conditions.
Shallow Microneedling targets the skin’s surface using needles between 0.5 to 1.5 millimeters, focusing on mild texture issues and fine lines.
Profound microneedling penetrates up to 3 millimeters into the skin, addressing deeper concerns like scars, wounds, and more significant texture problems.
Yes, microneedling is highly effective in reducing the appearance of acne scars. By stimulating collagen production and promoting the growth of new skin cells, it helps fill in scars and improves skin texture. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results, especially for deeper scars.
Microneedling uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries that stimulate collagen production, treating deeper skin concerns like scars and hyperpigmentation.
Conversely, microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin’s surface by removing dead skin cells, improving texture, and enhancing blood circulation. Microneedling provides more dramatic, long-lasting results compared to microdermabrasion.
Mesoneedling combines microneedling with mesotherapy, delivering nutrient-rich serums deep into the skin’s mesoderm layer. This method enhances collagen production and skin regeneration. While both techniques aim to rejuvenate the skin, mesoneedling offers additional benefits by infusing specialized serums.
While micro-needling is generally safe, some potential risks include:
- Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising.
- Infection if proper hygiene is not maintained.
- Pigmentation issues with improper aftercare.
- Rarely scarring may occur if the skin is not adequately cared for post-treatment.
Results from microneedling are gradual and typically noticeable within a few weeks after treatment. However, multiple sessions may be necessary for deeper scars or pigmentation issues. The results can last several months to a year, depending on skin type and the severity of the condition being treated.
