What Is Skin/Micro Needling?
Skin needling or micro-needling is a form of collagen induction therapy which is intended to smooth wrinkles, improve depressed acne scarring as well as reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It is one the newest, easiest and most effective skin treatments available and is a process which can be carried out clinically or in the home. As the process gains awareness it is important to understand, what skin needling is, how it works and whether it is a suitable treatment for you.
Who Is It For?
Micro-needling is a great choice for people who haven’t had success with any other type of treatment. Skin needling, also known as Facial Mesotherapy and Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), involves using a handheld roller infused with multiple, fine-pointed needles on the skin’s surface. This handheld roller contains needles that are 1-3mm long and the pinpoint punctures created on the epidermis penetrate the very topmost layer of the dermis. This action activates the skin’s natural wound healing process by releasing fibroblasts and growth factors that create collagen and elastin. Skin needling was created by a South African plastic surgeon in 1997, who discovered that this procedure is a harmless and less invasive method of inducing the skin to create collagen and elastin. Since it’s discovery, skin needling has been used for treating sensitive areas that other skin resurfacing procedures may need to avoid, such as scars, vertical lines around the mouth, below the eyes, the neck, backs of hands and thighs. Skin needling has been found to give the same results as other resurfacing treatments, such as laser, chemical peeling and dermabrasion, but is considered less invasive than these three because the epidermis is left intact. Skin needling is also less likely to cause permanent damage, such as sun sensitivity, skin color loss or hyper pigmentation. A Esthetician or dermatologist performs skin needling and most patients require one session to achieve desired results. The skin taught and, with minimal pressure, passes the roller in short, back and forth motions (approximately 6-10 times front and back).
Skin needling can be performed on all skin types and colors, including sensitive skin. Results include thicker, tighter and smoother skin, increased blood flow to areas of poor healing, minimized appearance of scars (including acne) and fine lines and increased penetration of serums and moisturizers. Other results can include minimized stretch marks and hair loss. Skin needling can be repeated every 4-6 weeks as long as the epidermis is healed; however, collagen formation can continue for up to 12 months after one treatment.
