The Skinny
Average Recovery
5 days
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Mechanical Abrasion
Surgical
No
Cost
$100 - $700
Before & After Images by Provider
Before & After Images by Provider
Microneedling
The Specifics
What is microneedling?
Microneedling (a.k.a. collagen induction therapy or percutaneous collagen induction) is a non-surgical skin rejuvenation therapy in which numerous tiny needles are used to create micro-injuries within the skin to trigger growth factor release and the wound healing cascade. Neovascularization (new blood vessel formation) and neocollagenesis (new collagen production) are activated while the needles simultaneously mechanically breakdown scar tissue. The epidermis (top skin layer) is preserved in microneedling so there is short recovery time and minimal side effects.
What cosmetic concerns does a microneedling procedure treat?
By causing mild damage to the skin through microneedles, microneedling encourages the body to recycle old cells, produce more collagen and elastin, and rejuvenate the appearance of skin. 1. Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Microdamage promotes collagen and elastin to plump the skin. 2. Facial Skin Laxity: Microneedling stimulates collagen and elastin to firm and tighten the skin. 3. Uneven Skin Tone: Hyperpigmented cell collections are broken down via microneedling. 4. Uneven Skin Texture: Microneedles breakdown areas of damaged and dead skin cells. 5. Acne Scars: Microneedling breaks down scar tissue. 6. Stretch Marks: Microdamage breaks down damaged cells to promote new cell growth.
Who is the ideal candidate for a microneedling procedure?
The ideal candidate for a microneedling procedure is seeking to improve the appearance of burn scars, other traumatic scarts, or acne scars. Microneedling is safe for dark skinned individuals. Microneedling is not recommended for individuals who have taken Accutane in the past six months, those with open wounds or skin infections, anyone who has undergone radiation in the past year, those with a history of keloid scarring, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What is the average recovery associated with a microneedling procedure?
Most patients recover within one week following a microneedling procedure. Redness, dryness, and skin flaking are common during the healing process and resolve within a few days. Minimal limitations on strenuous activities and skin care should be taken for a few days.
What are the potential side effects of a microneedling procedure?
Possible side effects of a microneedling procedure include prolonged erythema, warmth, tightness, itchiness, dry skin, or the development of patchy hypopigmentation.
What can someone expect from the results of a microneedling procedure?
The results of a microneedling treatment will not be immediately noticeable, but will gradually evolve over a few days or weeks as skin heals and rejuvenates. The results can last up to five years and treatments can be performed as often as once a month, although necessity of treatments will be unique to each candidate.
What is the average cost of a microneedling procedure?
Microneedling costs anywhere from $100 to $700. The actual cost of a microneedling is dependent upon location, provider, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure.
Pros
Cons
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, uses many small needles to puncture the skin and create micro-injuries that increase natural collagen and elastin production Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after microneedling.
The Takeaway
Microneedling is a minimally invasive, but highly effective skin rejuvenation technique to mechanically break down damaged skin tissues with tiny needles while also stimulating collagen production. Microneedling can treat acne, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage.
