Microneedling

WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING?

The Eclipse MicroPen EVO™ is a microneedling device that is FDA approved as a safe and effective method of collagen induction therapy. It is an easy treatment for patients to undergo, with basically no down time. Microneedling has always been considered a gold standard in collagen building, which can help in repairing acne scarring and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Microneedling involves the use of a needling device to create micro-injuries in the skin for the purpose of rejuvenation which occurs during the healing process. It has the ability to improve skin texture and firmness, and to diminish scars, pore size, and stretch marks.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR MICRONEEDLING?

Microneedling is a relatively simple and fast method for safely treating fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Because the epidermis remains intact, the procedure can be repeated safely and is also suited to regions where laser treatments and deep chemical peels are not typically performed, such as around the eyes and mouth, hands, and chest. This makes microneedling a preferred treatment for nearly everyone.

Persons who are not good candidates for microneedling are people with current herpes outbreaks, excema, psoriasis or other present skin conditions such as rosacea, clotting problems, rashes, new scars.

HOW DOES MICRONEEDLING WORK?

Simply put, microneedling is a way of triggering the repair response of skin. The needles on a microneedling device puncture the skin to create a controlled skin injury. The skin recognizes the injury and begins to produce collagen and elastin to “fill” the injuries. Collagen, is the main structural protein in skin responsible for sustaining skin integrity, firmness, and elasticity. The result is an improvement in skin texture and firmness, as well as a reduction in scars, pore size, and stretch marks. Sometimes, skincare professionals will combine microneedling with topical formulas.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING A TREATMENT?

In-office microneedling treatments can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending upon the area being treated. The length of the needle will affect whether there will be any discomfort or bleeding. Deeper microneedling is generally performed with a numbing cream to maximize patient comfort. The sensation is often described as feeling “prickly”.

Immediately after treatment, your skin will likely experience redness and minor swelling, similar to a sunburn. These effects generally subside within a day but can take up to one week to fully resolve. Your skin will be more sensitive following the procedure and it is highly recommended to avoid sun exposure immediately after. It is also suggested that you avoid wearing makeup 24-48 hours following the treatment.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO GET IT DONE?

When scheduling your procedure, it is important to remember that while you may see results after one session, it is generally recommended that microneedling be completed in a series of 3-5 treatments every 4-6 weeks, followed by a maintenance program such as SPF and serums. The frequency of treatments depends upon the desired effect and needle length used.