Microneedling (also referred to as skin needling) is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedure. When done properly, patients can see improvement in skin texture and firmness, as well as reduction in scarring, pore size, and stretch marks.

How Does Microneedling Work?

A device with very fine needles is used to puncture the skin to create a controlled skin injury. This controlled skin injury helps rejuvenate the skin in two ways. First, the actual penetration of the needle creates a channel that triggers the body to fill the wound with new elastin and collagen. Second, serums and vitamins can be applied to the skin before and immediately after to increase efficacy of the product.

While you may have seen at-home devices claiming to do the same thing, the microneedling done at a doctor’s office is completely different than the kits marketed for at home use in that those used at a physician’s office can penetrate deeper into the skin and give better results.

Microneedling is an excellent alternative to more-invasive cosmetic procedures, making it ideal for people who want effective rejuvenation results without a long recovery period. It is also safe for all skin tones.

It is important to have realistic expectations for your microneedling treatment. Even though the risks are quite low in microneedling, it is not recommended for pregnant women and nursing mothers.

The Microneedling Procedure

During your visit, a topical anesthetic cream is applied before the procedure begins in order to numb the region to any discomfort or pain. Microscopic punctures are then made in the skin using a pen-like microneedling tool containing over 30 microneedles. The tool makes such tiny pinpricks that they are barely noticeable even after the procedure.

The microneedles can penetrate to a depth of almost 3 mm, deep enough to stimulate collagen and elastin production in the skin for smoother, younger-looking skin. Many medspas and spas also offer microneedling but those treatments are often too superficial and the needles don’t go deep enough to get to the route of the problem. Because our treatment is done by physicians, it can go deeper into the skin producing better results.

Depending on the size of the treatment area, the entire microneedling procedure may take anywhere from a few minutes to 20 minutes. Once the procedure ends, a serum may be administered to help calm your skin.

Treatment Aftercare

Immediately after the procedure, the skin will be very red and raw and may even be bleeding, and sun protection and gentle skincare are a priority. Healing takes place in an average of three to four days.

Multiple treatment sessions will be required. Results will appear gradually over time as the tissues produce new healthier collagen.

• Minimizes pore size
• Reduces wrinkles and fine lines (such as upper lip wrinkles or “smoker’s lines”)
• Rejuvenates skin
• Improves appearance of stretch marks
• Improves the appearance of scars
• Improves the appearance of both indented (atrophic) and raised acne scarring
• Reduces skin discoloration and dullness
• Addresses sun spots and other pigmentation issues