The Miracle of Microneedling
For those looking to improve the look of scars or just boost collagen, microneedling offers a minimally invasive solution. “It is our second most requested service after the HydraFacial here at CFWA,” says Chrissie Abbott. The treatment dates back to 1995, but has gained significant traction in recent years thanks to new technology.
Microneedling creates microscopic punctures in the skin. Simply put, microneedling is the insertion of very fine short needles into the skin for the purposes of rejuvenation. If the prospect of multiple needle wounds sounds a bit scary, know that the punctures are more like pin-pricks that enter only surface-level deep.
Microneedling Offers Almost “Immediate” Results
Your skin will look plump, pink and luminous for a couple of weeks. “This youthful glow is one of the main reasons the service is so popular,” says Brittany Wilson of CFWA. It is particularly effective for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, restoring a more radiant, youthful appearance.
Microneedling is not an aggressive procedure. It is a gentler approach designed to provide incremental results. Clinicians recommend that patients receive multiple procedures to achieve desired results. Procedures are usually spaced four to six weeks apart. “We love seeing the results that we can achieve here at CFWA,” says Takoyia Parrish.
Nonetheless, patients usually begin to see the superficial, initial results within a week of their first procedure. Radiant skin is apparent as the deeper skin continues its healing process.
Think of it as a technology that stimulates the skin’s natural ability to repair itself.
Maintaining Lasting Results and Enjoying even “Better Skin” Over Time
The effects of a microneedling pen are not permanent, so clinicians recommend a maintenance program which could include quarterly procedures to keep skin looking it’s best. The great news is that microneedling also promises “improvement” over time. According to a 2008 study, skin treated with four microneedling sessions spaced one month apart produced up to a 400% increase in collagen and elastin six months after completing treatment.
Microneedling also plays well with at-home skin regimens. “When a client comes in for microneedling, we like to recommend products that amplify the results of the treatment,” says Abbott. This is a great time to apply anti-aging products that will penetrate better after the treatment.
If clients want to go even farther in leveraging the effects of microneedling, we can treat the skin using radio frequency. With this combination, it is possible to see tissue tightening over the course of months.