Table of Contents
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a safe and minimally invasive procedure that uses superficial and controlled micro-punctures of the skin using tiny sterilised fine needles. Your body reacts to these micro-punctures by triggering its healing mechanisms, resulting in the formation of new tissues, collagen and elastin. This procedure is able to tackle a huge range of skin concerns – from skin laxity to wrinkles, open pores and sunspots to acne scarring.
There are 3 main types of Microneedling:
- Traditional Microneedling
- Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling (e.g. Sylfirm X / Potenza)
- At-home Microneedling
Traditional microneedling and RF microneedling are FDA-approved aesthetic procedures
conducted by licensed doctors in clinics. In contrast, at-home microneedling is a least effective treatment that people self-administer at home.
The traditional microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin to promote collagen production, however there is no extra energy delivered. RF microneedling, on the other hand, utilises added radiofrequency heat to enhance the results. A specialised handheld device creates micro-tears in the skin. In addition, radiofrequency is delivered to the deeper layers of the skin, resulting in dermal rejuvenation and skin tightening benefits.
Targeting Specific Skin Concerns
Acne Scars
There is strong evidence to show that microneedling can help in reducing the appearance of acne scars. Acne causes a severe inflammatory response which can result in textural scarring of the skin. The tiny needles in microneedling breaks the collagen bundles in the superficial layer of the dermis which causes the acne scars. At the same time there is stimulation of collagen under the skin, resulting in new tissue formation, collagen and elastin synthesis.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are a type of scar on our skin which can happen when there is rapid changes in the stretching of the skin which ruptures the collagen and elastin. Collagen provides the firmness while elastin keeps it flexible. Stretch marks form as skin heals from that rupturing. Common areas for stretch marks include breasts, abdomen, upper arms, thighs and buttocks. Microneedling aims at minimizing the visibility of the stretch marks. Collagen and elastin stimulation from microneedling helps to heal the disrupted and damaged tissues in the stretch marks. Microneedling is able to reach the deeper layers of the skin (dermis) where the stretch marks are situated.
Saggy Skin
Sagging skin is a condition where skin becomes loose and wrinkled. The main cause of skin laxity is aging, sun damage and genetics. Loose skin is as a result of lack of collagen and elastin. With microneedling, the tiny needles creates controlled trauma to the skin which sends signals to the area to boost collagen and elastin production and this results in firm, tightened skin.
The Microneedling Process
Step 1: Cleansing and Application of Numbering Cream
Step 2: Identify Skin Concerns and Disinfect Skin
Step 3: Start Microneedling Procedure
Step 4: Completion
Duration & Recovery: What to Expect
DAY 1: Very Red
Expect to see redness and some swelling. Skin feels sunburnt, tight and sensitive to touch. Continue to use post-care products given by your doctor. Continue sunscreen and moisturiser
DAY 2: Sensitive
Similar sensations to Day 1. Skin continues to feel tight and sensitive. Redness may still be there. Continue using post-care products given by your doctor.
DAY 3: Redness Subsides
Less swelling and redness. Okay to start to use make-up. Continue using post-care products.
DAY 4: Little to No Redness
Minimal swelling and bruising. You may continue using your own skincare regime as well as resume exercising.
DAY 5: You Look Great!
Your skin is beginning to look and feel great! Resume your skincare regime. Avoid sun exposure as usual. Some areas may start to peel or flake off after a week.
Do's and Don't's
Apply sunscreen at a minimum of SPF30 and reapply every 2 hours.
Keep using gentle skincare routine.
Avoid direct sun exposure.
Refrain from using exfoliants, retinols, glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and alcohol-based products for 48 hours.
Prevent infection by washing your hands before touching your face, refraining from makeup for 48 hours, and avoiding swimming pools, saunas, and intense exercise that leads to heavy sweating (resuming after 72 hours).
Microneedling vs Other Treatments
Microneedling vs Chemical Peel
Microneedling uses micro-injuries to trigger the body’s natural healing process which results in collagen and elastin production. Chemical peels on the other hand are a skin-resurfacing procedure that uses chemical solutions to treat different skin concerns. The peel consists of chemical solutions which are applied to the skin in order to get rid of the top-most layer of damaged skin and this then prompts new skin to grow.
Microneedling vs Laser
Microneedling is an instrument that delivers tiny needles into the skin to trigger collagen and elastin stimulation. There are many types of lasers, e.g. Fractional, Fully Ablative, Pico, Q-Switched, and Vascular Lasers.
In general, lasers are much better for skin pigmentation, redness (using Vascular Lasers), severe acne scarring and fine lines. On the other hand, Microneedling is good for mild acne scars, stretch marks, enlarged pores, and hair loss and is very good at dermal drug delivery.
Both treatments are effective but the best option depends on your skin type, skin concerns, severity, and type of scars. A consult with your aesthetic doctor is important!
Benefits of Microneedling
1. Smoothen Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Microneedling slows down the signs of aging by reducing your fine lines. The controlled micro punctures in the skin activate the skin cells to stimulate the natural production of collagen and elastin, thus creating smoother, glowy-looking skin. Regular Microneedling treatment is also a preventative measure for aging skin.
2. Tighten You Skin
As we age, our collagen supply starts to deplete. This results in loose and saggy skin which can make us look older than our age. Microneedling stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin which results in skin tightening.
3. Improve Skin Texture
You will benefit from Microneedling if you have acne scars or stretch marks! The tiny little needles are able to penetrate to deeper levels where the scars are situated, causing stimulation of your body’s own healing response in order to regenerate new cells.
4. Minimize Pore Size
Large pores can be unsightly and when the pores get clogged up, there is a higher chance for bacteria to hide in the pores and cause acne to form. Microneedling can help to create controlled injuries to stimulate collagen and elastin production. This process can help to tighten pores and
make them appear smaller.
5. Stimulate Collagen Production
As a baby, we have the most amount of collagen but as we start to age, collagen depletes drastically. Collagen is needed for youthful, smooth, and glowy skin. Microneedling is a method to stimulate your body to produce more collagen.
Potential Side Effects of Microneedling
Who should avoid microneedling?
- Individuals who have skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, diabetes or if you have a
weakened immune system - Individuals who have bleeding or clotting disorders
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Severe active acne
- Open wounds on the skin
Microneedling is not suitable for everyone so it is important to consult with your aesthetic doctor!
Real Results: Before & After
Acne Scarring (Microneedling Radiofrequency x3 sessions)
Conclusion
Microneedling is one of our favorite procedures because it produces very effective results and is a quick procedure. It is a treatment that is suitable for most skin concerns with very little downtime. More importantly, there are many benefits, from increasing collagen production to reducing Fine lines and Wrinkles and treating other skin issues such as Acne scars.
Do Consult Kaiteki’s certified Aesthetic Doctors to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for Microneedling Treatment!
