While the term “microneedling” may initially sound a little scary, patients might be surprised to learn that microneedling is a minimally invasive and safe cosmetic procedure designed to improve various skin issues like fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and more.
At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we offer microneedling treatments to help our patients improve their skin’s texture and appearance. Our Clinical Cosmetic Specialist, Karen Shafer, is highly trained and certified in microneedling and other cosmetic treatments. Below, Karen shares professional insights on microneedling and why patients should choose our office in Morgantown, West Virginia, to receive their microneedling treatments.Â
WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING?
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure where tiny, sterilized needles create controlled micro-injuries to the skin. These micro-injuries trigger the skin’s natural healing response and stimulate collagen and elastin production, helping the skin create new tissue and appear brighter, less texturized, and more youthful.Â
“Microneedling helps with fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation – just overall skin rejuvenation,” Karen shared.
Typically, three treatments spaced between four to six weeks are recommended depending on the treatment area and size.
Here at the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we use the SkinPen®, the only microneedling tool to receive a De Novo clearance as a Class II medical device by the FDA. Karen explained that the SkinPen® works by penetrating 14 fine gauge needles into the skin’s dermis to help stimulate its natural collagen-producing capabilities.Â
Some benefits of the SkinPen® include:
- Little downtime: Many patients can return to work the next day.
- Safe and secure: This is the first FDA-cleared microneedling device.
- 90% satisfaction rating: Clinical trial subjects said they would recommend this to a friend or family member.
- Natural healing: This tool creates a softer appearance for the area affected.
Read our related blog, SkinPen® Microneedling Treatment: Does It Work? to learn more about this device.Â
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR MICRONEEDLING?
“Microneedling is FDA-approved for men and women over 22 years of age,” Karen explained.
However, it is essential to note that microneedling is not recommended for individuals with the following conditions:
- Active skin cancer in the affected areas
- Open wounds, sores, or irritated skin in the affected areas
- An allergy to stainless steel
- A bleeding disorder or dysfunction
- Women who are pregnant or nursing
“If a patient is on Accutane, they must wait at least six months before starting a microneedling session,” Karen stated.
If you have questions about microneedling or wonder if you are a good candidate, you should speak with a qualified provider, like your dermatologist, medical provider, or other certified trained professional.
IS MICRONEEDLING PAINFUL?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure. However, it can cause mild discomfort depending on the patient’s pain tolerance.
“Microneedling is a little sensitive, but we do apply numbing cream before the procedure,” Karen shared. The numbing cream helps numb the skin, reducing pain during the procedure. Karen explained that it takes 30 minutes to numb the skin and about 30 minutes to do the treatment.
WHAT SHOULD PATIENTS EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
“After the treatment, patients should expect some redness and pinpoint bleeding. Most of the redness will be gone by the next day, but I always tell patients that it does take about three to five days for your face to heal completely,” Karen said. Most patients can go back to their typical routine the day after treatment.
Other typical adverse effects that resolve over time without complications include:
- Dry or rough skin
- Tightness
- Redness
- Peeling
- Discomfort
- Tenderness
- Burning
HOW TO CARE FOR THE SKIN AFTER A MICRONEEDLING TREATMENT
Be sure to carefully follow your doctor’s or clinical cosmetic specialist’s post-procedure instructions, as they may be geared toward your skin type and medical history. Additionally, we recommend sharing your at-home skincare regimen with your dermatologist or clinical cosmetic specialist to ensure the products are safe for use.
Below are some general skin care tips to follow after getting a microneedling treatment:
- Use any prescribed topical creams or lotions on your skin to lock in moisture and reduce inflammation. Avoid using any non-medical grade creams for the first 12 hours.
- Avoid sun exposure and sweaty exercise for the first 12 hours after treatment. If you need to go outside after this time, wear sunscreen. You can find all of our sun protection products here.
- Stay hydrated.
- Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Avoid exfoliants and harsh cleansers, as they can cause irritation and inflammation while the skin is trying to heal.
- Avoid makeup for 48 to 72 hours to avoid breakouts and give the skin time to heal.
“There is a product in the office that you can purchase post-procedure. It is called The Liquid Filler. It has niacinamide in it, which helps calm the skin,” Karen stated. In addition, Karen explained that a supply of SkinFuse Rescue Gel is also given to patients to apply to their skin one day after treatment, which helps calm redness and soothe the skin.
WHERE SHOULD PATIENTS RECEIVE THEIR MICRONEEDLING TREATMENTS?
Microneedling should always be done in-office under the proper guidance of a dermatologist or certified trained professional, or it could result in increased pain or bleeding, infection, or scarring.
“I recommend that patients come to the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, for microneedling,” Karen shared. “We have been doing the SkinPen® in the office for about eight years. It is very effective. I have seen the results personally, and the results are pretty amazing. It makes a difference in patients’ all-over skin tone, texture, and acne scars. It makes them feel better.”
Microneedling is an effective treatment option for various skin concerns, but like any cosmetic procedure, results can vary based on the individual.
MICRONEEDLING IN MORGANTOWN | DERMATOLOGY CENTER FOR SKIN HEALTH, PLLC
If performed by a professional, microneedling treatments can help improve fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and other skin-related concerns for many patients. If you have any questions about microneedling, we are now offering free skin care consultations with Karen to help you customize products and services to achieve your skin goals. Give us a call today at (304) 598-3888 to book your consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!
REFERENCES:
Microneedling: Health Benefits & Risks
