Microneedling is a popular trend in skincare. You may have seen a viral video on microneedling, or you may know the treatment by another name. It’s commonly referred to as a “vampire facial” and also has a more medical term: collagen induction therapy. It’s used to treat skin issues like acne and aging. And with almost 100 percent of people who use microneedling for acne scars reporting an improvement, it’s an effective skin care treatment worth checking out.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally evasive treatment you can receive from a dermatologist, licensed aesthetician, or plastic surgeon. The treatment is done by using a device that pricks the top layer of your skin with tiny needles. These needles create puncture wounds that stimulate collagen production and can reduce the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, large pores, and other skin imperfections. While there are at-home microneedling tools, if you are concerned about a high level of damage to your skin then you may need a professional to administer treatment. At-home microneedling tools are said to be effective, and people report an improvement in their skin’s look and feel. However, those with deep acne scars, wrinkles, or sun damage will benefit from a professional microneedling session that uses longer needles to create deeper puncture wounds to stimulate collagen growth. Another thing to know is that microneedling can be done for any part of your skin that needs improvement. People routinely use microneedling to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and sun damage on their bodies.
History of microneedling
Many people are surprised to learn that microneedling is not a new treatment. According to one doctor, micro needling has been around for over 20 years. The reason microneedling has recently surged in popularity is because the procedure is easy and inexpensive. Compared to other acne and anti-aging treatments, like laser therapy, microneedling offers benefits beyond price. It provides less risk and less down time than other dermatologist treatments. Tools like the Dermapen or a dermaroller are simple products that can be used at home or in your aesthetician’s or doctor’s office.
When do people begin microneedling?
Adults of any age can benefit from microneedling. Because microneedling is affordable, quick, and relatively painless, many people have access to microneedling. And microneedling can be used to provide treatment for a wide range of skin conditions. Whether you’re concerned about acne scars, aging, or other skin concerns, microneedling can help. For those with minor skin concerns, at-home microneedling can be incorporated into your regular skin care routine to avoid aging. Here are a few examples of how different age groups can benefit from microneedling:
Ages 18 – 25
- Improve appearance and texture of acne scars
- Reduce the appearance of pores
- Jumpstart the anti-aging process
- Remove any sun damaged accrued in your youth
Ages 26 – 32
- Reduce acne scars
- Improve skin texture
- Treat fine lines
- Prevent aging
Ages 32 – 45
- Banish fine lines
- Improve the appearance of wrinkles
- Slow down the aging process
Ages 46 and up
- Increase collagen production for plumper, more youthful skin
- Improve texture of fine lines and wrinkles
- Make your skincare treatments more effective
Can it be preventive?
Absolutely. One of the primary uses for microneedling treatment is to prevent wrinkles and aging. As the treatment stimulates collagen growth, it can keep your skin looking youthful and plump. It can also make your skincare treatments more effective, as the tiny puncture wounds in your skin allow it to absorb more of your skincare products. Many professionals combine micro needling with other treatments and creams to improve the overall look and feel of your skin. Proper use of a dermaroller or microneedle involves a serum before and after the treatment. You can use any serum you’d like, so choose one that already works well or is recommended for your skin type.
Does microneedling have use aside from aesthetic improvements?
Microneedling is primarily used to treat skin conditions and improve aesthetics. For specific medical skin concerns, you should discuss options with your doctor. A doctor may suggest microneedling to improve symptoms of a condition.
Are there any risks or downsides?
Because this treatment is minimally evasive, there are minimal risks to this procedure. Some people experience increased skin sensitivity. If microneedling is done over an area with a breakout or infection, it can spread and worsen the condition. Microneedling should avoid any irritated areas of your skin. If you’re looking to get microneedling to improve skin issues, you may need to treat things like acne before doing a microneedling treatment as microneedling may aggravate acne.
What is the recovery time?
Recovery time for microneedling varies depending on treatment. If you or your skin care provider uses a 1mm needle, recovery is fast. Many people recover within a couple days. You may have increased redness for the first and second days following treatment. And your skin may be sensitive right after the treatment, but you can go about normal activities following microneedling. For more intense micro needling procedures, recovery time may be extended. And you may experience a longer period of redness following the treatment.