Microneedling Benefits and Risks: Is it Worth it?

The skin is the largest and most exposed organ in the body. While the skin acts as a protective barrier for our bodies, over time the skin itself becomes susceptible to genetic and environmental factors that cause our skin to age visibly. When this happens, the level of collagen in our skin decreases and elasticity diminishes resulting fine lines and wrinkles, dark circles, hyperpigmentation, and more. Luckily, with the help of scientific advancement, we can stall and even reverse the skin’s aging process through a process called microneedling. 
Microneedling enhances the body’s natural healing process by stimulating collagen and elastin production to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, lines, and skin discoloration. Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling is one of the most popular ways to restore the youthfulness and elasticity of the skin. But is it really worth it? Read on to learn about the benefits and risks of this revolutionary skin therapy.  

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a process also known as collagen induction therapy.
During the procedure, cosmetic specialists use small needles to cause superficial damage to the skin, stimulating skin cell regeneration. As the skin heals, new collagen forms, causing the skin to thicken and tighten. Microneedling creates overs 500,000 channels within the epidermis through which a selection of topical serums could be applied with immediate delivery to the deeper layers of your soft skin.
A decrease in fine lines and wrinkles makes your skin look both radiant and smooth. The texture and firmness of your face improve, and scars, stretch marks, and pore size all diminish. 
A minimum of four treatments spaced four to six weeks apart is recommended for the best results. Some patients are worried about pain; however, a numbing cream is applied topically to the entire face before the procedure begins.
The ultimate goal of this procedure is to not only treat the pre-existing wrinkles and scars but to penetrate below the surface before new wrinkles form. In turn, aged skin is replaced by healthier, renewed skin. Regular microneedling treatments several times per year will dramatically improve not only the appearance of your skin but more importantly, the overall health of your skin.

Benefits of Microneedling 

A 2018 study concluded that microneedling is an effective and safe way to treat skin conditions and reverse the effects of aging. Microneedling is even great for other areas of the body with stretch marks or saggy skin, like the legs, chest, or butt. Microneedling has been proven to treat:

• Wrinkles
• Fine lines
• Acne
• Scars
• Sun damage
• Alopecia
• Skin pigmentation problems
• Stretch marks
• Rosacea
• Dark undereye circles

Microneedling is a long-term solution for a variety of skin problems and is one of the safest ways to rejuvenate the skin. 

Risks of Microneedling 

Although microneedling is considered to be a safe practice for skin rejuvenation, just like any other medical procedure, there are some risks. 
Most concerns about microneedling stem from post-procedure skin irritation. Initial results post-treatment are temporary redness, and peeling or flaking of skin. This could last for a couple of days as the old layer of skin begins to shed. However, after a few more days, the original layer of skin is gone, and new youthful skin emerges.
Bleeding is very uncommon during a microneedling session, but those with bleeding disorders or who are taking blood-thinning medications are at higher risk so it is essential to disclose this information to your doctor before receiving this treatment.
Those with a skin infection, severe acne, keloid scarring, and unstable skin types are often ineligible for microneedling and should consult with a doctor.
Microneedling should only be conducted by a licensed professional and should never be done at home. Consulting with a dermatologist or medical skincare professional prior to your appointment greatly helps to minimize these risks.

Is Microneedling Right for You? 

Microneedling is a viable option for anyone looking for smoother skin, reduced stretch marks, and scars, improved acne symptoms, or smaller pores. Because it doesn’t use heat, it works well for all skin types and colors. If you’re interested in booking a microneedling session call us at (858) 206-8041 to speak with a licensed professional or book your session now.