Don’t let the ‘needle’ bit scare you – this minimally invasive treatment treats everything from acne scarring to fine lines and wrinkles
Our new ‘Need To Know’ series shines a light on skin treatments, demystifies common misconceptions and helps you make an informed choice when it comes to achieving your skin goals. .
First up, we explore everything you need to know about microneedling.
WHAT IS IT?
Microneedling is a non-surgical treatment that uses tiny needles to penetrate the skin and triggers the skin’s own wound healing response, thereby boosting collagen production.
The practice itself dates back to 1995, but significant developments in technology over the last two decades have seen it’s popularity skyrocket. Other names for microneedling today include collagen induction therapy.
If your primary skin concerns include acne scarring or pock marks, stretch marks, wrinkles and enlarged pores, then microneedling could be the right treatment for you.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The concept behind microneedling is that these microscopic pin pricks encourage the skin to respond to wounding by forming new collagen-rich skin tissue. This new skin is firmer, and more even in tone and texture.
A pen-like tool (We use the Medical Grade Skin Pen) dotted with tiny needles is used to make small punctures in the surface of the skin. These very short, micro-fine needles range in diameter from 0.5 to 2.5mm. The tool is moved evenly across the skin to ensure the distribution of new collagen-rich skin is even, too.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Each microneedling appointment takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour..
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
This is largely dependent on your skin condition and skin goals. Between 3 and 6 6 treatments is ideal however book in for a comprehensive skin consultation with one of Mooi Skin’s qualified skin therapists who will prescribe the best course of treatment based on your individual skin goals.
BEFORE YOUR TREATMENT
The Mooi Skin team will be able to advise how best to prep your skin for microneedling. Some things you may need to do beforehand include avoiding taking certain medications like ibuprofen or acne medication. You may also be asked to ensure you are using medical grade topical retinoids on your skin leading up to your treatment to ensure the skin is in the best condition to get you the best results from your course of treatments.
WHAT CAN IT TREAT?
- Acne scars
- Age spots
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Enlarged pores
- Facial scarring
- Slackened skin
- Uneven skin tone or texture
- Stretch marks (on other areas of the body)
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Like any skin procedure, there are certain contraindications to undergoing treatment. If you any of the following applies, you are not an ideal candidate for microneedling:
- You are currently pregnant
- You have psoriasis or eczema
- You have open wounds on your skin
- You have recently undergone radiation therapy
- You have a history of hypertrophic or keloid scars
AFTER YOUR TREATMENT
Unlike more invasive resurfacing procedures, microneedling requires no downtime. The only immediate side effects in surface redness and minor irritation for two days following your treatment. This is your skin’s natural response to the small ‘wounds’ the needles have inflicted on skin.
You may experience heightened skin sensitivity afterwards, so wearing SPF during the day is vital.
RESULTS
For long-term results, we recommend a course of treatments as part of a Mooi & Me membership plan to maintain the appearance of your skin.
After a course of treatments, expect to see an improvement in skin texture, increased tightness and elasticity, a reduction in the appearance of scarring and the softening of fine lines and wrinkles.
Talk to your trusted Mooi Skin expert today to find out if microneedling is the right treatment for you.
