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Views: 114 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2024-01-04 Origin: Site
As an esthetician specializing in skin care during pregnancy, I'm often asked if it's safe to get micro needling treatments while pregnant. In this article, I'll outline the potential risks and benefits of microneedling during pregnancy to help you make an informed decision about whether this treatment is right for you.
Micro needling, also known as collagen induction therapy or skin needling, is an increasingly popular skin treatment that involves using a device with tiny sterile needles to create microscopic channels in the top layer of the skin. This stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, minimize pores, treat acne scars, and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
There are two main types of micro needling devices:
· Derma rollers: These are handheld devices with small needles on a rolling head. They are rolled over the skin to penetrate the tiny needles into the epidermis.
· Dermapen or Microneedling Pens: These devices use an automated, vibrating head to quickly puncture the skin with tiny needles. Microneedling pens allow for more precision and control over treatment depth.
During a micro needling treatment, a topical anesthetic is often applied first to minimize discomfort. The needle depth typically ranges from 0.25 mm to 2.5 mm depending on the concerns being addressed. After the treatment, the skin channels close quickly and begin healing within 24 hours. Multiple treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart are usually recommended for best results.
Whether or not microneedling is safe during pregnancy is a complex question with no definitive yes or no answer. There are currently no scientific studies examining the safety and effects of micro needling specifically on pregnant women and the fetus. As with most cosmetic procedures, microneedling is generally not recommended during pregnancy as a precautionary measure.
Here are some factors to consider regarding microneedling and pregnancy:
· No long term safety data: The long-term impacts of penetrating the skin with tiny needles during pregnancy are unknown. Since the procedure is relatively new, robust research on safety during pregnancy does not exist yet.
· Risk of infection: Pregnancy goes hand-in-hand with a suppressed immune system, making pregnant women more vulnerable to infections. Micro needling creates hundreds of tiny openings in the skin that could become infected without proper sterilization of tools and post-procedure care.
· Pain management concerns: Topical anesthetics are commonly used before microneedling to reduce discomfort. The effects of topical numbing creams on a developing fetus have not been conclusively established.
· Skin sensitivity: Many women experience skin sensitivity and reactivity during pregnancy. Microneedling may aggravate this.
· Rapid collagen/elastin changes: The hormones of pregnancy cause the skin to stretch rapidly. Introducing micro needling to boost collagen and elastin production could potentially disrupt the natural process.
So in summary, while there is no definitive evidence that microneedling is unsafe during pregnancy, the unknown risks mean most doctors would err on the side of caution and recommend avoiding it. Some even advise stopping micro needling treatments at least 3 to 6 months before trying to conceive.
While risks cannot be ruled out entirely, some data and anecdotal evidence do suggest micro needling could potentially benefit pregnant women in certain ways:
· Reduce pregnancy stretch marks: By boosting collagen production in the dermis, some research indicates microneedling can minimize the severity of new stretch marks in some cases, especially when combined with other topical treatments. However, more research is needed.
· Improve elasticity of skin: By stimulating elastin and collagen production, microneedling may help improve overall skin elasticity to accommodate a growing baby bump. This could theoretically help reduce tearing, itching, and discomfort from overly stretched skin.
· Treatment for melasma: The hormonal changes of pregnancy often trigger melasma (dark patches on the face). Some studies show microneedling combined with other skin treatments can successfully treat pregnancy melasma when other options are limited.
· Reduce appearance of existing scars: For women with pre-existing scars from acne, injuries, c-sections, or stretch marks from a previous pregnancy, some research indicates microneedling can continue improving their appearance during pregnancy.
However, keep in mind these potential benefits are hypothetical and not conclusively supported by research yet. Much more study is needed to confirm if microneedling is indeed beneficial and safe for stretch marks, melasma, and other skin concerns during pregnancy.
If you are considering micro needling while pregnant, it's important to carefully consult your obstetrician and esthetician first.
Microneedling should be avoided entirely during pregnancy by women:
· With any high risk conditions or complications in the current pregnancy.
· With immune disorders, chronic illnesses, or who are taking immunosuppressant medications.
· Who have experienced previous miscarriages or preterm births.
· With blood clotting disorders or using blood thinners.
· With inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, etc.
· Who are in their first trimester.
· With vitiligo, open wounds, severe acne, or skin infections.
· With a history of keloids or scar hypertophy.
· Using topical retinoids, Accutane, Differin or other acne treatments.
· Who cannot have anesthetics for medical reasons.
If you have any doubt about whether your specific situation contraindicates microneedling, have an in-depth discussion with your OB-GYN. Only get their green light before proceeding.
If you do not have any high-risk pregnancy factors, the best practice is to avoid micro needling during at least the following times:
· Pre-conception and when trying to conceive: Discontinue microneedling 3 to 6 months before conceiving as a precaution. Limited research raises concerns it could impact embryo implantation.
· First trimester: The first trimester marks the most crucial period of fetal development. Any procedures introducing bodily risk factors should be avoided if possible.
· Right before the due date: Getting microneedling done right before delivery poses unnecessary infection risks as the due date nears. Discontinue treatments 1 month prior.
· While breastfeeding: Little research exists on whether microneedling impacts breastmilk production or content. Most doctors recommend waiting until breastfeeding is done.
The second trimester may potentially offer a safer window for micro needling compared to the first or third if your OBGYN green lights it. However, exercise appropriate caution with any procedures in pregnancy. Your baby's well-being is the top priority.
Besides micro needling and skin needling procedures, pregnant women will also want to exercise caution about getting facials involving extractions, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments.
Here are some guidelines on common skin treatments:
· Extractions: Best avoided as they increase infection risks. Can be done selectively under a doctor’s guidance in rare cases. Avoid extractions if you have pregnancy acne.
· Chemical peels: Peels using risky acids like phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or beta hydroxy acid (BHA) must be avoided. Gentler lactic acid or fruit acid peels may be safe depending on acid strengths. Consult a doctor.
· Microdermabrasion: Generally not recommended as the crystals can irritate skin and pose infection risks. Can be considered case-by-case under a doctor’s supervision.
· Laser treatments: Laser hair removal, skin resurfacing treatments, and other cosmetic laser procedures should be postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding are complete.
· Botox/fillers: While some OBGYNs may permit dermal fillers and Botox in rare cases for severely pregnany women distressed over skin changes, these should be postponed until after delivery whenever possible. Better safe than sorry.
Bottom line, invasive treatments that puncture the skin, risk infections, or introduce harsh chemicals are best postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Non-invasive facials using safe aromatic products can be great for relaxation and pampering instead.
While more invasive treatments should be avoided, you can certainly follow a regular routine focused on gentle skin nourishment and protection while expecting. Here are some tips:
Cleanse and moisturize: Use a gentle cleanser twice a day and moisturizer safe for sensitive skin to keep your complexion balanced. Avoid any products with unsafe ingredients like retinoids, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, etc.
Exfoliate gently: Use a soft washcloth, facial brush, or gentle scrub with soft jojoba beads 2-3 times a week to remove dead skin. Don't overdo exfoliation.
Apply sunscreen: Use an SPF 30+ mineral or non-nano zinc sunscreen to prevent melasma and skin damage. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors. Wear hats for added sun protection.
Hydrate with serums: Hyaluronic acid, antioxidants like vitamin C, niacinamide, and gentle peptides can nourish skin and reduce inflammation when used properly under guidance. Use 2-3 times a week.
Eat skin-healthy diet: Load up on antioxidants, omega fatty acids from foods like avocado and salmon, and use prenatal vitamins to prevent skin dryness and damage. Stay hydrated.
Try facial massages: Gentle daily facial massages can boost circulation and collagen. Use lymphatic drainage massage techniques to prevent puffiness.
Avoid touching/picking skin: Hormones increase skin sensitivity and reactions. Avoid picking at it and limit skin irritations. See a dermatologist if issues like severe acne arise.
Be gentle overall: Your skin works hard during pregnancy. Avoid abrasive scrubs, drying agents, irritants, and unnecessary products. Treat it gently while cleansing thoroughly.
By being vigilant about proper skincare, nutrition and sun protection, you can keep your skin healthy glowingly pregnant without the risks of more invasive procedures. If issues like severe acne or melasma do arise, see a dermatologist who specializes in pregnancy skincare before trying any risky treatments.
While micro needling is effective for various scar types and rejuvenation, there is limited evidence that it can successfully remove or lighten congenital birthmarks.
Very few small studies have examined using microneedling for birthmarks with mixed results:
· One 2016 study on using a derma roller for facial café-au-lait birthmarks showed about 25% of cases saw 50-75% lightening after 12 sessions. However, a quarter of patients had side effects like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
· Another small 2014 study found microneedling combined with glycolic acid peels led to 66% clearance after just 4 sessions in one type of vascular birthmark known as Jessner’s nevus.
· However, a 2020 research review concluded evidence does not yet support microneedling as an effective birthmark treatment compared to stronger modalities like lasers.
The takeaway is microneedling alone may lighten some birthmarks slightly in select cases but will not produce dramatic improvements for most patients. An OBGYN definitely would not recommend it for birthmark removal during pregnancy due to the unknown risks.
For pregnant women troubled by dark or prominent birthmarks, the best approach is camouflage makeup and discussing other options with your dermatologist after delivery. More research is still needed before microneedling can be considered an effective birthmark treatment during pregnancy. Always exercise caution with in-office procedures while expecting.
Many pregnant women are understandably eager to find ways to prevent and minimize stretch marks as their baby bump rapidly expands. This has led to great interest in whether microneedling could potentially reduce stretch mark severity during and after pregnancy.
Here is an overview of what researchers have found so far:
· A 2018 study had pregnant women with existing stretch marks use a dermaroller starting in week 22 of pregnancy. After 12 weeks, the treatment group saw significantly better improvement in stretch mark width, height, color, and overall appearance compared to the control group.
· A 2015 trial had pregnant women use a dermapen alongside vitamin A and C topicals from week 24 to 36. 100% of the treatment group had fewer and lighter stretch marks. Only 22% of the control group observed similar improvements.
· A 2020 clinical trial combined microneedling with silicone sheets and got a 50% improvement rate after sessions done every other week during the second and third trimester.
· However, a 2017 meta-analysis concluded "insufficient evidence for the efficacy of microneedle therapy for stretch marks". More clinical trials are needed.
While early results are promising, it is premature to confirm whether microneedling prevents or reduces stretch marks associated with pregnancy. Any pregnant woman considering it should discuss risks and benefits at length with their OB-GYN first.
In many cases, topical options like retinoids (except during pregnancy), vitamin C, emu oil, cocoa butter or prescription treatments like Xamiol may be safer than microneedling. Always use extreme caution and avoid introducing unnecessary risks during pregnancy. Preventive options like dermarolling can be revisited post-delivery.
While microneedling is gaining popularity for skin rejuvenation and scar treatment, there are still too many unknown factors to recommend it for pregnant women at this time. The potential risks of infection, inflammation, and side effects on fetal development cannot be ruled out conclusively.
Until more definitive research establishes its safety during pregnancy, it is best avoided, especially during the first trimester. If you already started micro needling treatments prior to pregnancy, discontinue at least 3 to 6 months before trying to conceive.
While a few small studies do suggest potential benefits for issues like stretch marks and melasma, these are not guaranteed or proven effects yet. More clinical trials directly monitoring pregnant participants are needed to know if microneedling can ever be considered low-risk enough for expecting mothers.
Always have in-depth consultations with both your OBGYN and dermatologist before considering any invasive procedures during pregnancy. Be vigilant with gentle skincare, sun protection, massage, and nutrition instead to keep your skin healthy as your baby grows. Post-delivery, micro needling may offer benefits under your doctor's supervision. But avoid introducing unnecessary risks during this special time if possible for mom and baby's safety.
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