WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING?
Microneedling is a cosmetic treatment that stimulates the skin’s repair process and collagen production by creating microscopic injuries on the surface of the skin. This procedure, also known as collagen induction therapy, aims to increase the skin’s synthesis of collagen and elastin, which are important proteins that keep the skin appearing young and smooth. Here at MY Health Care & Aesthetics, we utilize the most innovative and effective microneedling device and system, the MicroPen EVO by Eclipse.
WHAT IS MICROPEN EVO?
MicroPen EVO by Eclipse is a U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved class II advanced medical-grade automated microneedling device that delivers higher intensity collagen induction therapy compared with other microneedling devices. MicroPen EVO can provide noticeable results even for those with moderate to severe skin issues. MicroPen EVO is safe and comfortable as it allows for advanced microneedling customization and precision.
LIST OF COMMONLY TREATED SKIN PROBLEMS
Microneedling is used to treat many skin problems that result in skin depression, including:
- Wrinkles
- Surgical scars
- Acne scars
- Burn scars
- Skin pigmentation issues
- Stretch marks
- Loose skin and large pores
- Sun damage
TREATMENT PROCESS
The procedure usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, which depends on how large the treatment area is. Most people need four to six treatment sessions to see a noticeable improvement in their skin condition. First, a numbing cream will be smoothed onto your face so you won’t feel the needle pricks. This takes 30 minutes more. Then the person doing the microneedling will move a pen-shaped tool with tiny needles around your face. The needles make small cuts on your skin, which causes a bit of bleeding. Your doctor also spreads a serum with different ingredients based on your skin conditions, such as hyaluronic acid with peptides, growth factors, skin brightener (such as vitamin C and glutathione), or botox to help oily skin with big pores.
PREPARING FOR THE TREATMENT
Knowing what you can do to prepare for your treatment lessens the non-threatening side effects that may occur post-treatment. Here are the things you should avoid as preparation:
- Taking blood-thinning OTC medications, like Aspirin and Ibuprofen.
- Consuming alcoholic beverages a day before the scheduled appointment.
- Undergoing wax or other hair removal procedures.
- Using skincare topical products.
Also, be sure to drink lots of water and eat a hearty meal right before the procedure.
SAFETY TIPS
Microneedling is not suitable for everyone, so it is important to talk with your doctor before getting the procedure. Also, keep the following tips and reminders in mind:
- A numbing medication (topical anesthesia) is typically applied to the skin before the procedure to help reduce pain during microneedling. Tell your doctor if you have any allergies or sensitivities to numbing medications.
- Microneedling can cause bleeding so it may not be suitable for people with clotting or bleeding disorders, or who take medicine to thin their blood.
- You may want to avoid microneedling if you have conditions that affect your skin, such as eczema or diabetes, or if you have a weakened immune system.
- Ask your doctor about specific care instructions on how to care for your skin after the procedure, as your skin may be more sensitive to the sun and to skincare products like sunscreen, makeup, and moisturizers, especially products that contain retinol, glycolic acid, menthol, capsaicin or alcohol.
For more safety tips, visit the FDA website here.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
Factors like skin type, weather, and after-care processes may increase the risk for side effects, like:
- Irritation or infection
- Swelling and redness
- Bruising and bleeding
- Flaking or peeling
- Discomfort or soreness in the targeted areas
- Possible scarring
If symptoms do not go away within a few days, kindly seek a professional’s advice.
DOWNTIME AND RECOVERY
Although microneedling is not a quick remedy, it can provide you with guaranteed results in a reasonable amount of time. Healing from a microneedling treatment usually takes 24 hours, but it can extend up to two to three days depending on the extent of the treatment. You can resume your work and school activities and wear makeup 24 hours after your treatment.