Does Microneedling Produce Positive Results?

The availability of microneedling is on the rise, with compelling before-and-after photos popping up all over the internet. But is this just another money hungry fad, or does microneedling actually produce positive results?

Microneedling is a simple, safe, and effective therapeutic method that is minimally invasive. Since the epidermis is not harmed, the procedure may be repeated safely and is also appropriate for areas where other treatments are not possible.

If you have troublesome skin issues or simply wish to enhance your collagen and improve the general state of your skin, microneedling might be able to give you the results you’ve been hoping for. Continue reading for more on microneedling and to find out what kinds of positive results you can expect.  

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a nonsurgical procedure which is a part of oral & maxillofacial surgery that uses small needles to penetrate the skin's surface and enhance its look. The tiny pricks to the skin's dermal and epidermal layers encourage the creation of new collagen and elastin. This is a popular technique that can help to smooth lines and wrinkles, level out skin tone, reduce the appearance of large pores, tighten skin, and minimize stretch marks and scars.

How Does Microneedling Work?

Microneedling, also known as percutaneous collagen induction treatment, is performed by using a handheld device with many small needles that penetrate the skin.

Before beginning treatment, a technician will apply a numbing agent in the office. The esthetician then moves the device back and forth over the skin's surface, treating the chosen region of treatment. The needles make micro-openings in the skin's top layer, reaching a depth of 2mm.

The procedure works by boosting collagen production. The collagen in your skin depletes as you age, resulting in fine lines around delicate regions or deep-set wrinkles. As the micro-opening heal, your skin tone and texture will progressively improve. This is because the body goes into healing mode, producing more collagen and elastin fibers in the process. As a result, your skin will get thicker and plumper, and fine lines and wrinkles will fade or vanish.

Positive Results of Microneedling

According to research, skin treated with microneedling can produce up to a 400% increase in collagen and elastin. But that's not the only benefit people see from microneedling. Other benefits include:

·Improved skin texture. As we age, the collagen and elastin in our skin begin to diminish. Microneedling triggers that skin’s healing response, in turn, increasing collagen and elastin production. This results in softer skin and a smoother texture.

·Reduced breakouts. As the tiny, sterilized needles puncture the top layer of your skin, they remove the source of recurring blackheads. This could result in fewer breakouts and visibly small pores.

·Diminished appearance of scarring. Just as microneedling can improve texture, it can also minimize the appearance of scars as it helps to improve any irregularities on the surface of the skin.

·Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The tiny punctures to the dermis trigger cellular growth so your skin can repair itself. This not only tightens the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines but can also prevent early signs of aging such as wrinkles.

Your skin tone and texture will progressively improve as the micro-openings heal. Recovery is quick—only a few days, during which time the treated skin appears pink as it is restored from within. However, for best outcomes, a series of treatments may be required.

Side Effects of Microneedling

While microneedling is considered safe for most people, there are a few temporary side effects to be aware of. For a few days following the surgery, the most common side effect is slight redness and irritation. However, most people can resume wearing ordinary makeup the next day after therapy.  A good sunscreen is also recommended since the skin will be more sun sensitive following treatment.

Microneedling should also be avoided by those who are pregnant, taking certain acne drugs, or have active aggravated breakouts.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from Microneedling?

For a few weeks, after your microneedling session, your skin will seem plump, rosy, and bright. This is because of the inflammation and superficial swelling of the skin. Remember, however, that the collagen and elastin come from the healing process.

The total number of microneedling sessions necessary for optimal outcomes varies by individual. If you want to boost collagen through the procedure of collagen induction, it is typically recommended to schedule four sessions, about four to six weeks apart.

How Long Do Results Last?

The results of microneedling can vary based on age and skin type. After your microneedling treatment, your esthetician will recommend a maintenance regimen that will suit your best. Many patients typically see the need for touch-up in six months to a year.

Bottom Line

Microneedling is a results-driven therapy. It was primarily developed for skin rejuvenation but has since expanded to be used in treatments burn scarring, alopecia, stretch marks, and many more.

Hopefully, the above article gave you a better idea of the positive results you can expect from the procedure. If you have problematic skin conditions or simply want to improve the overall condition of your skin, you might want to give microneedling a try.