Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, percutaneous collagen induction, involves the use of many small needles to puncture the skin. This creates a micro-injury and the body’s natural healing properties then begin to repair this injury with increase collagen and elastin production resulting in improvements in skin texture and resiliency.
After cleansing the skin surface and applying topical anesthetic, the microneedling device of choice (often a rolling or pen-like system) is then utilized to create the injuries. The nondominant hand is used to smooth and stabilize the skin while the opposite hand treats all desired areas of the skin over the course of approximately 20-45 minutes. The endpoint is pinpoint bleeding. Although it can be on its own, it is now often to use this technique to aid with transdermal delivery of other therapeutic medications. The devices may vary, but the size of the needle is typically 0.1-0.25mm in diameter. The mechanism of action involved with microneedling creates micro-injuries which leads to a release of growth factors and triggers the wound healing cascade. The needles also aid in mechanically breaking down the scar tissue. Neovascularization and neocollagenesis is triggered. The end result is aesthetically pleasing, yet without a significant recovery time because the epidermis is not destroyed.
The goal of a microneedling procedure is to target imperfections of the skin with micro-injuries which cause the release of growth factors and triggers the wound healing process which produces collagen, creating younger looking skin.
John has been struggling with getting rid of old chickenpox scars. After learning about a microneedling treatment offered at Dr. Rapaport's practice John decided to try it out. The smoothed out the scarring on John's skin, allowing for a fresh new layer of skin to grow in its place.
Microneedling addresses concerns such as:
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.
Most patients experience minor redness after the procedure as well as skin dryness and shedding which are all expected. There is no downtime with microneedling.
Microneedling is ideal for someone that wishes to improve the appearance of acne scars, burn scars, or other post-traumatic scars. This technique is also very safe for darker skin tones in contrast to many other skin rejuvenation techniques.
Microneedling is not recommended for those who have used Accutane within six months, have open wounds or a skin infection in the area, have had radiation treatment within the last year, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of keloid scars.
Microneedling is generally well tolerated but erythema may be seen after treatment, lasting for 2-3 days. Skin may also feel warm, tight and itchy for a short while, this normally resolves in 12 – 48 hours. Photoprotection is advised for a week and local antibiotic creams may be prescribed.
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