What is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a cosmetic treatment designed to rejuvenate the skin without having to undergo botox or surgery. It involves the insertion of very fine short needles into the skin to help smooth lines and wrinkles, fade acne scars, improve your complexion, and tighten the skin.
How does microneedling work?
When the needles penetrate the skin it creates a micro-trauma or small wound. As a response the body produces collagen, elastin and new skin cells. In turn we get tighter and smoother skin. It also increases serum absorption by 2000%, allowing you to get more benefits from your everyday facial serums!
What is microneedling good for?
Microneedling is most commonly used to help reduce wrinkles, scars, patches or age spots, and acne. In addition, it can also be used to reduce stretch marks and promote hair growth in individuals with alopecia.
How often should I get microneedling?
For the best results, we suggest scheduling microneedling treatments once a month with the addition of near infrared light therapy. In addition, receiving acupuncture treatments once a week or biweekly will assist with general wellness. Microneedling and near infrared light therapy will help address aspects of facial cosmetics, while acupuncture will address any imbalances in the body that may be contributing to your complexion issues.
Can I receive microneedling more than once a month?
Since the process involves small micro-traumas to the skin, the body needs time to fully recover before getting the next treatment. Once a month is the gold standard. It is also important to wait one month after you have received botox or other injections.
Is there any case when I shouldn’t get microneedling?
Yes. Microneedling should be avoided if you have an active acne breakout, if you are pregnant, have a local infection, have moderate to severe skin disease such as psoriasis or eczema, if you are on anticoagulant therapy, have keloid scarring, are currently undergoing chemotherapy/radiation, or have active herpes zoster. You should also be cautious if you are currently taking blood thinners, as they increase the risk of bruising.
How long will it take to see results?
Every person is different so there is no exact time line and there is no guarantee that it will work for you the same way it worked for another individual. Often you will feel tighter and smoother skin within a few days of your treatment, but it can take at least 4 treatments to see change depending on age and severity. After the first treatment you should begin seeing gradual changes that continue to build upon one another, meaning you get more results with each treatment. Anecdotal evidence suggests that results of treatment can last 3 to 5 years!
What should I expect after the microneedling treatment?
Microneedling can cause redness of the face and neck for 8 to 12 hours. It can also lead to puffiness in the face that lasts one to two days. Your skin may start to feel hot, dry, irritated, and itchy for hours post-treatment. So, have a few things on hand after your microneedling session. Hyaluronic acid is great for moisturizing the face and can be used whenever your face feels dry. At Pivotal Motion Acupuncture, you will be provided with a small container of hyaluronic acid mixed with herbal serums which should last you a few days. However, having some extra on hand to use between sessions is always a good idea. Aloe vera gel is great for cooling the face and can be used 24 hours after the treatment if your face is feeling hot, dry, irritated, or itchy. At Pivotal Motion Acupuncture, our practitioners will provide a cooling Aloe Vera mask to help alleviate any discomfort directly after your microneedling session.
What should I avoid after microneedling?
There are a few things to avoid for 24 hours after your microneedling session, so choose what day you will be getting the treatment wisely. First, it is important to stay out of the sun for the rest of the day and use mineral sunscreen for the next 7 days after microneedling. Also, no exercise for the rest of the day! Sweat can irritate the face causing further redness and discomfort. You also want to avoid wearing make up for the rest of the day. It is important that you avoid putting anything on your face after the treatment including make up, lotions, sunscreen, face wash, etc. So, be sure to only wash your face with warm water when going home.
When can I go back to my normal facial skin care routine?
You can go back to your normal facial regimen the following morning. Some things to know are your facial products will have a much higher absorption after microneedling, so using smaller amounts will still get the job done.
