Microneedling
MICRONEEDLING
Microneedling therapy utilizes controlled, microscopic skin injuries via micro-needles, to increase the production of collagen and elastin, which repair and improve the skin’s appearance. Needle depth is adjusted for pinpoint accuracy to treat the individual’s diverse areas of the face, eyes, neck, and body. Microneedling creates micro-channels that stimulate the healing process. Plasma-rich protein, or PRP, may be used in conjunction with micro needling to further stimulate and aid in the healing process. PRP consists of growth factors and cytokines that stimulate new skin growth with production of new collagen and fibrin.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is all natural that comes from the patient, no foreign substances are introduced. This is achieved through a simple blood draw. A small vial of the patient’s blood is drawn and then placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets for use in the treatment.
Multiple studies demonstrate this is highly effective in treating acne, fine lines, wrinkles, atrophic scars, and stretch marks. Studies reveal about 87 percent of patient with atrophic scaring report having good to excellent results. Acne patients also reported significantly better results with PRP compared to those treated with vitamin C. Research also reveals a moderate amount of evidence that suggests microneedling with PRP of the scalp leads to hair growth.
First you will have a consultation to discuss desired results along with an examination of skin. During this time, your treatment plan will be formulated.
You will need to prepare for treatments with the discontinuation of medications that may thin your blood such as NSAIDs, aspirin, and herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort, and vitamin E. If you are on any prescription blood thinning medications prescribed by your cardiologist or neurologist such as Plavix, Brilinta, Effient, Coumadin or warfarin, medical clearance will be required prior to discontinuation. It is also recommended to avoid alcohol for 48 hours prior to and 72 hours post treatment.
The day of procedure, the treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed and a topical anesthetic will be applied to the treatment area. A waiting period of about 10-15 minutes will be necessary for the numbing effects to be achieved. During this time if PRP option is affection to microneedling treatment, a vial of blood will be drawn and placed in the centrifuge to separate the PRP. Once the topical anesthetic numbing effects have been achieved the treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed a second time. Next, a topical gel will applied as a lubricant to help the microneedling device glide smoothly over your skin. The microneedling device is placed against the skin and is glided across the entire treatment area, creating thousands of microscopic channels. After the micro channels have been created PRP or hyaluronic acid may be topically applied and gets quickly absorbed into the skin. The entire procedure takes approximately 45 minutes. This treatment can be repeated 4-6 weeks apart until desired results are achieved.
Immediately after your treatment, the treatment area will likely be red and hot similar to a sunburn. The treatment area may also feel tight. This is normal. These symptoms will usually reside within 48-72 hours of the treatment. You may also experience peeling of the skin, which will resolve usually in 2-3 days. Most people return to work the day after treatment.
Post procedure it is recommended to avoid touching your treatment area for 4-6 hours to decrease risk of infection. It is strongly advised to minimize sun exposure, avoid strenuous activity, and excessive perspiration for the first 2-3 days. You are also advised to refrain from applying any cosmetics, sunscreens, lotions or other skin care products to the skin for 24 hours, this includes skin cleansers unless recommended by us. We will recommend post procedural skin products for use after your treatment to ensure you achieve the best results and reduces your risks of complications. We will provide detailed instructions of what products to use and at timed intervals that are specific to your treatment. After the first 24 hours it is highly recommended to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 regularly. You should also avoid topical application of Vitamin C for 36 hours and retinol and hydroquinone for one week after your treatment.
MICRONEEDLING FAQs
Patients with nearly any skin type who have fine lines, acne scars, wrinkles, and textural skin issues are candidates. Exceptions are those with recent history of skin cancer less than one year and patients who are prone to keloid scarring.
You will likely not want to work the day of the treatment. There will be redness similar to a sunburn for 1-3 days. It is strongly advised that no strenuous activities and avoidance of sun exposure be done for 3 days as it is sensitive.
Side effects may include redness, sun sensitivity, and skin peeling. Redness resembling sunburn usually resolves in 24-48 hours but may last 3-4 days. Sun sensitivity usually lasts a few days. It is highly recommended avoidance of sun exposure for the first 2-3 days and daily use of a good sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. There may be possible skin peeling for two to three days. Peptide ointments can aid healing and reduce redness, peeling, and sensitivity. There are very few risks with this procedure.
Many patients see results the day of or the day after the procedure described as improvement in skin texture and or a glow of the skin. Typically within two to four weeks best results are seen. With single treatments results usually last about 3-4 weeks. However with serial treatments about 4-6 weeks apart results usually last at least 6 months with maintenance treatments every 6-12 months.