Skin Needling
Skin needling, sometimes referred to as dermarolling, collagen induction therapy, percutaneous collagen induction, or dry tattooing, was developed by Dr. Andre Camirand approximately 20 years ago. The procedure involves manually applying a roller that is outfitted with tiny surgical needles to the skin in a crisscross fashion. This controlled damage to the upper dermis of the skin stimulates elastin and collagen production as part of the wound healing process. This can help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks as damaged skin is gradually replaced by smooth, healthy skin.
Pros and Cons:
For many patients, skin needling is a cost-effective alternative to laser resurfacing. The best results are usually achieved when the treatment is combined with products containing peptides, retinoids, and vitamin C that help fortify the skin and boost collagen production. The effects of the treatment vary depending on the gauge and length of the needle and the amount of pressure that is applied to the roller. Skin needling is a good tool to treat skin elasticity as well as fine lines and wrinkles.
There is a significant difference between the needling performed by a dermatologist in a clinical setting and that performed by non-medical skin care professionals. Rollers with wide-gauge needles less than 0.25 millimeters long do not actually cause trauma to the surface of the skin. The needles merely exfoliate the skin and increase circulation to the area, which allows anti-aging skin products to penetrate deeper into the skin.
Needles that are longer than 1.0 millimeter have the potential to break the skin, which can draw blood, open the door to infection, and lead to other adverse skin reactions. This type of needling is normally out of the scope of practice of non-medical skin care professionals and should only be performed by an experienced dermatologist to prevent the risk of infection and other complications.
Patients considering skin needling should consult a board-certified Calabasas dermatologist to determine if the procedure is right for them.