As one of the human body’s major sensory organs, the skin is an integral part that must be well maintained. Constant research has been done on how to rejuvenate the skin or make it look younger as we age.
One of the most popular and highly effective dermatological procedures for improving skin texture is microneedling. In this blog, we will explore microneedling and how it improves skin texture.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that helps to rejuvenate the skin by producing more collagen and elastin within the skin layers. It is a safe and effective process that enables the regeneration of skin tissue which helps to improve the skin, especially when it is aging.
It is a procedure where the skin is prepared with a numbing cream applied to the areas to be treated. The skin is then punctured with fine microneedles that trigger the stimulation of the normal wound-healing process. This wound-healing process allows more collagen to be produced which forms a network-like fiber structure that helps to tighten the skin.
The procedure also stimulates the formation of elastin, which helps to maintain the elasticity of the skin. Different types of collagen and elastin work together to keep the skin texture and the skin healthy throughout the various layers of the skin.
Health Benefits of Mirconeedling
Microneedling alleviates a lot of skin conditions and has several health benefits, with very few side effects.
Enhancing skin texture and pigmentation
As we age, our skin begins to lose its elasticity. It may become saggy and, may start to have discoloration or pigmentation differences in places. Certain skin conditions such as dyschromia, which causes discoloration, and patchy or flaky skin, may also appear.
As microneedling induces the normal wound-healing process, a lot of collagen is released that forms a network, which in turn, tightens the skin. Not only that, it also makes the skin firmer, smoother, and radiant. This also helps to even the skin pigmentation.
Reducing skin aging symptoms
The procedure applies to reducing skin aging symptoms too, such as:
- Crow’s feet
- Wrinkles
- Fine lines and forehead lines
- Uneven skin tone, dark spots, and/or hyperpigmentation due to high exposure to UV rays
- Decrease in skin elasticity and collagen fibers
- Enlarged pores
Other dermatologic conditions such as acne scarring, rosacea, stretch marks, and facial scars can be treated with multiple microneedling sessions.
Quick healing
As microneedling requires multiple sessions depending on its needs, it has a comparatively shorter healing period. According to an article published in the journal, Dermatologic Surgery, by the renowned Dr. Tina Alster, a Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Georgetown University Medical Center, post-treatment is quick and efficient. Furthermore, it is less invasive than other procedures like deep chemical peeling and laser skin resurfacing.
Types of Microneedling
Multiple types of microneedling procedures are available. These depend on the skin type, texture, skin condition, and more. Some of them are as follows:
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Manual Microneedling
Manual microneedling is typically done by handheld rollers with tiny needles. The pressure is controlled by the applicator as per requirements. It can be done at home, or by a certified esthetician.
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Automated Microneedling
This microneedling procedure offers a more precise treatment as it is done by an electronic device. The needling in the target area can also go deeper, in a uniform pattern. It is usually used to treat wrinkles, scars, and more.
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RF Microneedling
Fractional radiofrequency microneedling, or RF microneedling, uses radiofrequency technology to create heat stimulation along with tiny injuries to boost the production of collagen. It is great for reducing dark spots, wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s feet, stretch marks, and other skin conditions.
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Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)Therapy
PRP Therapy is used to improve skin health, reduce scarring, and stretch marks, along with wrinkles, and rejuvenate the face. It is done by re-injecting platelets extracted from the patient’s blood sample into the treatment area. This boosts collagen and elastin production which helps to improve the skin texture and pigmentation.
Eligibility and Suitability
Before doing any skincare procedures, it is crucial to understand your skin condition, texture, and overall needs you should consult with a certified aesthetician, doctor, or cosmetic surgeon.
There are a few conditions where the microneedling procedure should be avoided or postponed. Listed below are some of the circumstances in which you should not opt for microneedling:
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Skin allergies or rashes
If you have concurrent skin allergies or rashes or are allergic to certain skincare products that would be used throughout the microneedling process, then you should not do this procedure.
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Localized skin condition or disease
If you have a skin condition or disease that would impact the healing area, then microneedling should be avoided. Other diseases may also interfere with the wound-healing process during the recovery period post-treatment.
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Recent skincare procedures or treatment
Having done any recent skincare procedures or treatment in the planned treatment area will need the microneedling procedure to be postponed. This is because your skin will be sensitive after those procedures and need a proper recovery time to be able to take another skin treatment.
Other than that, if you are already taking therapy or a cosmetic treatment for any other skin conditions, you must finish that treatment period to be able to start the microneedling procedure. Even if you have undergone other types of skin tightening or lightening processes recently, you have to wait before doing the microneedling procedure.
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Acute acne scarring
Any recent acne scarring or facial scarring apart from the one(s) present within the planned treatment area should be treated first. Moreover, if you have severe clinical acne, then it needs to be considered how to progress with the microneedling procedure.
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Inflammation and lesions
It is essential to do a proper checkup before starting microneedling. Inflammation, lesions, cysts, and tumors within and beyond the planned treatment area should be examined first and then should be determined if microneedling should be carried out or not. For other diseases, such as having a history of keloid or hypertrophic scars, skin cancer, or cancerous tumors, microneedling should be avoided.
Side Effects
Although microneedling is a very safe and almost non-invasive skin improvement procedure, there may still be some side effects. These may include redness or swollenness in the treated area; infection; slight bleeding due to the micropunctures on the skin; high skin sensitivity; and slight pain, discomfort, burning, or stinging sensation during the process.
Conclusion
Microneedling is an easy process that is less invasive than other skin treatments or procedures. Given how it is beneficial for rejuvenating the skin by boosting the production of various kinds of collagen and elastin fibers, it is indeed a good choice for an anti-aging procedure.
As it may take a few to several sessions to get the desired results, follow-up is necessary. The best practice is to understand the process and know which procedure is the most suitable for your skin. Finally, consult with a medically approved dermatologist or esthetician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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What are the types of microneedling?
Manual and automated microneedling, RF microneedling, and PRP therapy are the types of microneedling.
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What are the health benefits of microneedling?
Skin pigmentation discoloration and texture, and aging symptoms like wrinkles, and fine lines, can be treated by microneedling.
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Are there any side effects of microneedling?
There are very few side effects such as redness, swollenness, or increased skin sensitivity right after the procedure. You should ask your esthetician about the aftercare process.
