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Views: 114 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2024-01-03 Origin: Site
As a skincare enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for the next big thing in anti-aging and skin rejuvenation treatments. Recently, I have been hearing a lot about a procedure called micro needling. With so many skincare procedures and devices available these days, it can be hard to know which ones are really effective. So I decided to do some research on micro needling - what it is, how it works, and whether it lives up to the hype. Here is what I learned:
Micro needling, also known as collagen induction therapy or dermarolling, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves pricking the skin with tiny sterile needles to stimulate collagen production and skin regeneration. The idea is that by creating tiny wounds in the skin, the body responds by ramping up collagen and elastin production to heal the skin. This results in smoother, firmer, more youthful looking skin with diminished scars, fine lines and wrinkles.
During a micro needling treatment, a dermaroller device which contains hundreds of tiny needles is rolled over the skin. The needle length can range from 0.25 mm to 3 mm, depending on the concerns being addressed. Shorter needles are used for superficial exfoliation and product absorption, while longer needles penetrate deeper to stimulate collagen growth. Common areas treated on the face include the forehead, cheeks, around the eyes, mouth and neck. Numbing cream is sometimes used for comfort during the procedure.
Micro needling causes tiny punctures in the skin which triggers the wound healing cascade. The small injuries stimulate collagen and elastin production, while also releasing growth factors that facilitate skin rejuvenation. By boosting collagen, micro needling helps improve skin texture, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, tightens sagging skin, and diminishes hyperpigmentation and acne scars.
Overall, micro needling is considered a safe and effective treatment for improving the look and feel of aging or damaged facial skin. It is more affordable than laser resurfacing or dermal filler injections, and requires little to no downtime. Results are gradual over weeks and months as collagen regeneration occurs. Multiple treatments are usually recommended for best results.
In addition to rejuvenating facial skin, micro needling is increasingly being used as a treatment for hair loss and thinning hair. Also called collagen induction therapy for hair loss, this technique may help stimulate hair regrowth in those suffering from alopecia or genetic hair loss.
Here is how micro needling works to treat hair loss:
The tiny wounds created by microneedling stimulate blood flow, cellular turnover, and collagen production beneath the skin’s surface. This activated and enhanced environment boosts the function of hair follicles and may “wake up” dormant follicles. Some early research shows that micro needling thickens the dermal layer of the scalp and elongates hair follicles - both factors that support stronger, thicker hair growth.
By targeting the wound healing cascade, micro needling may also increase absorption of hair growth serums or medications applied to the scalp. The tiny channels allow active ingredients to better penetrate the scalp for maximum effectiveness.
When performed by a trained professional, micro needling for hair loss is considered safe with minimal side effects. Mild redness and pinpoint bleeding are common immediately after the procedure. Possible side effects include minor pain, irritation, or infection if not performed in a sterile environment.
While individual results vary, many people receive significant hair regrowth and thickening of existing hair after a course of professional micro needling treatments. When combined with medications like minoxidil or finasteride, many dermatologists believe micro needling can enhance the benefits for hair growth. More research is still needed, but the preliminary evidence for microneedling hair loss therapy is promising.
Based on its mechanisms of action and many clinical studies, experts tout microneedling as an effective treatment for an impressive range of skincare and hair loss concerns. Here are some of the top researched benefits of microneedling procedures:
· Stimulates collagen and elastin production for smoother, firmer, more youthful skin
· Reduces appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores
· Improves hyperpigmentation and acne scarring
· Minimizes dark spots and uneven skin tone
· Treats signs of aging on the neck, chest, hands and other body areas
· Tightens and lifts sagging facial skin
· Rejuvenates skin on the neck and décolletage
· Fades stretch marks and surgical scars
· Improves texture of chicken pox or traumatic scars
· Helps treat hair loss and thinning hair; stimulates regrowth
· Increases absorption of skincare products when used in conjunction
· Minimal downtime and side effects compared to more invasive procedures
· Affordable non-surgical skin tightening and resurfacing treatment
· Safe for all skin types, even sensitive skin
Given the wide range of anti-aging and skin rejuvenation benefits, it’s no wonder microneedling has become such a popular skincare treatment over the last decade. The versatile procedure improves the tone, texture, firmness and glow of the skin without need for surgery or extensive recovery time.
Micro needling offers an array of skin and hair benefits through its unique mechanisms of action. Specifically, micro needling is a great treatment option for people looking to improve:
· Fine lines and wrinkles
· Crow’s feet and forehead lines
· Hyperpigmentation and age spots
· Uneven skin tone and texture
· Enlarged pores
· Acne scarring
· Chicken pox scars
· Surgical, trauma or burn scars
· Stretch marks
· Loose, sagging skin
· Thinning hair and balding
· Slowing hair loss
· Increasing thickness of hair
· Improving hair density
The collagen stimulation and wound healing actions make micro needling effective for both cosmetic skin concerns and hair growth. In many cases it is just as effective, if not more so, than laser resurfacing and other ablative treatments - with lower cost and less downtime.
While virtually anyone can benefit from micro needling, the ideal candidates have mild to moderate skin or hair concerns and are in overall good health. Those with very sensitive skin, vascular disorders or active acne breakouts may not be good contenders. It’s best to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist to determine if you are a good fit for micro needling.
One of the biggest questions around micro needling is - how much does it hurt? Of course pain tolerance varies quite a bit from person to person. That said, most people describe microneedling as causing mild to moderate discomfort, rather than severe or intense pain.
There are a few factors that contribute to the level of pain perceived during a micro needling treatment:
Needle Length - Shorter needles up to 1.5mm sting less than longer 2-3mm needles required to reach the deeper dermis. But longer needles give more intensive results.
Location - More sensitive areas like around the eyes, lips and nostrils feel more painful. Thicker skin areas typically cause less discomfort.
Number of Passes - Each pass of the device feels like a prickly scratching sensation. More passes leads to more accumulated discomfort.
Individual Pain Tolerance - People’s sensitivity levels vary tremendously. Those with low pain tolerance may find the procedure too uncomfortable without numbing.
Use of Numbing Cream or Injections - Applying a topical anesthetic for up to an hour before the treatment can substantially reduce pain. In some cases, lidocaine injections are administered.
Time Between Treatments - Repeat sessions usually feel less painful as the skin becomes accustomed.
While micro needling isn’t necessarily pain-free, practitioners have a number of ways to minimize discomfort. Applying ice packs, using vibration tools and adjusting needle length can also help ease any stinging sensations. Most people find the mild pain worth it for the anti-aging and rejuvenating results.
For many microneedling devotees, the most pressing question is how long the smoothing, firming and regrowth results will last. Treatments aim to create lasting collagen and elastin rebuilding that counteracts intrinsic aging and sun damage. But do the benefits continue if you don’t maintain the treatments over time?
Here is an overview of how long you can expect micro needling improvements to last:
· First 6 months - Collagen stimulation remains active so improvements continue.
· 6-12 months - Peak improvements are visible as collagen production is maximized.
· 12-18 Months - Some collagen starts to degrade but results mostly maintained.
· 18-24 months - More slowing of collagen production so some reversal in benefits.
· 2+ years - Gradual return to pre-treatment condition if no touch up sessions.
To sustain the full benefits long term, most dermatologists recommend maintenance micro needling every 12-18 months. This stimulates new collagen to counteract the gradual depletion.
Lifestyle factors also impact how long results last. Too much unprotected sun exposure or smoking can speed up reversing the effects. A healthy lifestyle helps maintain your microneedling improvements for longer.
In general, you can expect at least 1-2 years of beautiful, refreshed skin and thicker hair after a micro needling regimen. Maintenance sessions and skin-friendly habits enable you to extend the improvements even longer.
While the evidence is overwhelmingly positive, no cosmetic procedure comes without at least some potential downsides. Here are the main disadvantages and side effects associated with micro needling:
· Pain – Topical numbing creams are recommended to ease the discomfort during and after the treatment. Pain levels vary greatly by individual.
· Bleeding/Bruising – Pinpoint bleeding and spot bruising sometimes occur and normally fade within a few days.
· Infection – Very low risk if microneedling is done in a sterile medical environment. Transmission of blood-borne illness is unlikely but possible if equipment is reused.
· Hyperpigmentation – Microneedling very rarely causes dark spots or hyperpigmentation. Usually resolves after a few months. Pigmentation issues are more likely for darker skin tones if not performed properly.
· Acne Breakouts – Some patients notice temporary acne after the first couple microneedling sessions as pores release toxins. Very mild and controllable with proper post-treatment care.
· Herpes Simplex Virus – Dormant HSV (oral or genital herpes) infection could theoretically be reactivated due to the micro-damage and wound healing processes induced.
· Scarring – Extremely rare for scarring to occur. Far more likely the treatment will reduce scarring.
· Expense – Costs vary widely but a full recommended course of 5-6 sessions may cost upwards of $1000 total. Not covered by insurance.
· Time Commitment – Multiple sessions spaced weeks apart are needed for desired results, along with daily skincare routines. Too much time for some.
· Results Require Patience – Improvements occur gradually over weeks and months. Not a quick fix so patience is required.
While these risks and downsides are possible, they remain unlikely in most cases when procedures are properly executed. The potential for side effects should be weighed against the significant proven benefits.
If you have decided to try microneedling, knowing what to expect during the procedure can help ease any anxiety. Here is a step-by-step overview of what a typical professional microneedling appointment is like:
Numbing - Most practitioners will first apply a topical anesthetic cream to the treatment areas for up to an hour. This numbing cream makes the procedure more comfortable.
Cleansing - Your face will be gently cleansed to remove all makeup, creams and oils so the microneedling can work best.
Microneedling - Using the handheld device, the practitioner will methodically roll the microneedles repeatedly over your skin until the targeted area is covered. 2-3 passes are common. You may feel a prickly scratching sensation.
Serums - The provider will usually apply growth factors or skin-enhancing serums to allow better absorption into your microchannels.
Soothing - At the end of your session, a calming cream will be massaged into your skin to soothe, hydrate and protect. Ice packs may also be applied.
Healing - Your skin will heal rapidly within a few days. Very mild redness, pinpoint scabs and dryness may stick around for up to a week. Follow proper post-care instructions.
Repeating - A series of 4-6 sessions every 4-6 weeks is recommended for optimal microneedling results. Maintenance may be once annually.
The entire appointment typically takes less than an hour from start to finish. Many patients return to normal activities immediately afterwards. Give yourself about 3 days before applying makeup over the treated areas. Then you can quickly be back to your regular routine while enjoying your renewed glowing skin!
After researching the skin and hair benefits, effectiveness, side effects and what the procedure entails, I am convinced that micro needling lives up to the hype. The wealth of positive clinical data combined with real patient results and before-and-afters won me over.
This novel skin rejuvenation technique stimulates our body’s own regenerative processes to gradually improve tone, texture, firmness and hair thickness over time. I particularly like that micro needling is not as invasive or risky as many other anti-aging treatments. The cost is also more affordable in the long run compared to repeated laser sessions or dermal filler injections every 4-6 months.
While no anti-aging treatment is a panacea, I believe incorporating micro needling into your skincare routine is smart. It complements your daily serums and SPF to maximize collagen stimulation and cell turnover for youthful, healthy skin as you age. I personally plan on booking my first series of micro needling sessions soon and look forward to seeing what it can do for my sun-damaged skin and thinning hair. I am excited to rejuvenate without the prolonged downtime or pain associated with lasers and surgery.
If my research has convinced you that professionally-administered micro needling could help reduce fine lines, acne scars or hair loss as it has for thousands of patients, then start doing your homework. Consult reputable cosmetic dermatologists in your area to discuss whether you are a good candidate. Ask to see real patient photos and reviews. Be sure they use sterile, quality microneedling tools. With an experienced provider, this innovative treatment offers tangible improvements with minimal risk.
Here’s to rolling back the years and bringing back the lush locks! My micro needling journey is just beginning and I cannot wait to see where it takes my skin. I encourage you to schedule your first consultation so you can experience the benefits for yourself.
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