Microneedling Your Way to Younger-Looking Skin
The body’s reaction to perceived injury is the basis of many skin rejuvenation procedures. Everything from fractional lasers to radiofrequency waves, when the energy is delivered into the dermis the body perceives it as an injury and responds by creating new cells, including collagen. Since collagen is the basic protein responsible for the support structure of the skin, it is of particular interest.
Microneedling is another effective rejuvenation option that takes less than 30 minutes. The procedure is also known as collagen induction therapy and the idea is to prick the skin to stimulate that healing response in the body. The needle can also deliver growth factors and other anti-aging products to the deeper layers of the skin.
Here’s some more background on collagen induction therapy/microneedling:
The secret is the “pen”
Microneedling involves the use of a “pen” that contains 12 very fine needles. Held just like a pen it moves over the treatment area, which has been numbed topically beforehand. The needles puncture the skin to create controlled skin injuries. Each puncture creates a channel that triggers the body to fill these microscopic wounds by producing new collagen and elastin. Through this process, skin texture and firmness improve.
What does microneedling treat?
Numerous skin conditions can be treated with microneedling — fine lines, melasma, hyperpigmentation, surgical scarring, stretch marks, and large pores. Dr. Gurley recommends from three to six microneedling sessions for the best results.
How does it work?
Once microneedling produces tiny wounds in the skin, the body reacts to this by activating its healing mechanisms. This process induces the production of new collagen in the skin, known as neocollagenesis. Not only does this procedure stimulate collagen production, it also builds up the growth of endothelial cells, which are the thin layers of cells lining the blood vessels and capillaries. This means there will be better blood supply to the skin, which creates a healthy glow.
Non-invasive and safe
Because the epidermis remains intact, microneedling is safe and can be used in areas where laser treatments and deep peels can’t be done. Plus, the topical numbing keeps the patient comfortable. The tiny pricking channels close within one hour, so post-procedure infections are extremely rare. The procedure can be repeated every two to four weeks as needed. For one to two days after treatment, patients will experience some redness and mild swelling akin to a mild sunburn.
Interested in boosting your body’s collagen production? Call Dr. Gurley at (636) 812-4300 and let’s discuss microneedling.