Everything you need to know about Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (C.I.T.) causes controlled micro-injuries that stimulate your body’s natural wound healing process, while minimizing cellular damage. The result is effective remodeling of scar tissue, while keeping the overall structure of the skin intact. With more research, microneedling was discovered to be successful in treating other skin conditions besides scars. Capitalizing on the body’s natural healing processes, a microneedling procedure induces collage and elastin production to reduce wrinkles and lines, smooth out the skin’s texture, and treat some hyperpigmentations. Scroll to the bottom to watch a microneedling treatment!

There are 3 phases to the wound repair process:

• Phase I: Inflammation. Piercing the skin triggers your immune system to disinfect the wounds, remove debris, increase blood flow and begin to create new tissue.
• Phase II: Proliferation. The wound is rebuilt with new granulation cells, which are part of the extracellular matrix. Additionally, a new network of blood vessels develops.
• Phase III: Remodeling. The wound is replaced with new dermal tissues and blood vessels.

Despite being a currently trending procedure, Microneedling has a long history of use. The first recorded use of a microneedling procedure was in 1905 by German dermatologist Ernst Kromayer. He used various-sized dental burs powered by motor-driven flexible cord equipment to treat scars, birthmarks, and hyperpigmentation. Microneedling as we think today was first used in 1995 by Dr. Desmond Fernandes in Philadelphia to treat wrinkles and scars with hypodermic needles. Around the same time, Dr. Fernandes developed a small needle stamp to induce collagen production. Luckily major progress has been made in the industry and we have now seen the release of an FDA approved microneedling device: The SkinPen. At Restorative Injectables we are proud to use the SkinPen for all of our microneedling procedures. The SkinPen can be used to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, stretch marks and acne scars. SkinPen can be used on many different body parts, including face, neck, décolletage, arms, hands, legs, abdomen and back. SkinPen needles adjust to different lengths, allowing us to customize your procedure based on skin’s thickness and your specific needs. The high quality precision cartridge is designed for single use, as it should be: with a first of its kind lock-out safety mechanism.

There are minimal side effects and downtime following the SkinPen microneedling procedure. Slight swelling, possible flaking/peeling, and redness/pinkness in the area (like a mild sunburn) is seen for only 1 to 2 days, so you can return to work or social activities after 24 hours. SkinPen has minimal risk of scarring or infections.

This procedure is safe and effective for all skin types. Relative contraindications include: Keloid or raised scarring, history of eczema, psoriasis and other chronic conditions; history of actinic keratosis; presense of raised moles, warts or any raised lesions on targeted area.

Before coming in for your service, we will have you speak to one of our aestheticians to discuss your concerns, making sure that microneedling is the best available procedure for you. Pre-treatment consists of discontinuing retinoids and certain exfoliants one week prior. You will also need to avoid direct sun exposure within the week of your procedure.

We will make sure you are comfortable during your procedure by applying topical numbing cream. A customized serum will be applied to each area being treated to penetrate into the freshly created micro-channels at specific depths, until an optimal endpoint is reached. We recommend a series of 3 or more treatments for optimal results, so make sure to book your next appointment after your service. Some skin conditions will require more treatments as necessary.

The initial 24 hours after the procedure are the most critical. Your aesthetician will customize a personal post-care protocol specific to your skin type. In general, you will need to keep your skin clear and free of any products, makeup, sweat, oil, dirt, and debris for a full 24 hours while all of the micro-channels close. Products rich in gentle and healing ingredients are best to encourage new, healthy cell growth. After 24 hours you can resume daily activities. For the remainder of the healing phase, we recommend cleansing with Skinceuticals Simply Clean” ($38) and moisturizing as needed with “Avéne Clean AC Nourishing Skin Cream” ($25). Sunscreen is a MUST and we love “ISDIN Eryfotona Tinted SPF 50” ($66). Sheer options are also available. As always drink plenty of water and wash your pillowcase!

BY RICO ALVARADO, MEDICAL AESTHETICIAN AT RESTORATIVE INJECTABLES