How Microneedling Works
Many people turn to microneedling as a way to reduce the appearance of crinkly, wrinkled skin. This non-surgical procedure is also effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation and skin discoloration of the skin. Individuals with acne pockmarks may also benefit from this procedure. Many patients seeking to restore facial glow and improve other areas of their skin often seek this cosmetic treatment as a less expensive alternative to Fraxel laser therapy.
Microneedling involves the use of a power hand-piece that creates small channels within the skin’s dermis layer. This process activates the body’s natural healing process and results in the production of elastin and collagen. Hyaluronic acid is also used to hydrate the skin and improve the texture of the dermis.
This procedure works best on areas of the body where the skin structure’s strength has been lost. These include areas that have stretch marks, divots and deep scars. A board-certified dermatologist may recommend microneedling for the:
- Face (particularly around the mouth)
- Neck
- Décolleté
- Hands
- Arms
- Legs
Number of Treatments Required
Patients generally need anywhere from three to six treatment sessions to experience the best results from this non-surgical procedure. An additional one to two sessions may be recommended every year to maintain the results. A board-certified dermatologist can discuss the exact number of treatments that would be ideal to address each patient’s particular skin problems and concerns.
Recovery Time
Since microneedling is a non-surgical procedure, the recovery time is much less than what is required for invasive surgery. Skin may be red for up to a week following the first cosmetic treatment session. However, patients can usually start wearing mineral makeup the day after a treatment to cover any redness and help restore facial glow. Some skin tightness, flaking and mild burning can be expected in the immediate days following a treatment session. Contact Calabasas Dermatology Center for further information to decide whether you are a qualified candidate for this cosmetic treatment.