What is SkinPen Microneedling?
SkinPen microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a device called SkinPen to create tiny, controlled injuries in the skin with a series of fine, sterile needles. These small punctures trigger the body’s natural healing response, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which are proteins that help to keep the skin firm and smooth. SkinPen microneedling is typically used to treat a range of skin concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, uneven skin texture, and hyperpigmentation. It can be done on the face, neck, décolletage, hands, and other areas of the body. The procedure is minimally invasive and typically takes about 30-60 minutes to complete, depending on the size of the treatment area. Most patients experience some redness and swelling for a few days after the procedure, but this typically resolves on its own. Microneedling stimulates your skin’s healing process to help keep your skin firm and smooth.
Who gets microneedling?
Microneedling has cosmetic and medical uses. You might consider microneedling if you’re concerned about:
- Enlarged pores.
- Fine lines or wrinkles.
- Loose or crepey (thin and wrinkled) skin.
- Mild scars, especially those from acne or burns.
- Skin discoloration or uneven skin tone.
- Stretch marks.
The procedure can also help people who have medical conditions such as:
- Alopecia Areata (hair loss due to an autoimmune disease).
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
Who shouldn’t have microneedling?
Talk to your healthcare provider before getting microneedling if you have:
- Acne or are taking medication for acne.
- Blood disorders or are on anticoagulants (drugs that prevent blood clots).
- Cancer and are receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
- Frequent skin rashes (contact dermatitis) or cold sores.
- Keloidal tendency (your skin forms hard, raised scars).
- Moles, freckles, Skin tags or other growths that change in size or shape or bleed.
- Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
What happens before microneedling?
Before microneedling, you have a consultation with our healthcare provider. We will examine your skin, review your health history and discuss your goals for the procedure. They also take photos of the area so you can compare your skin before and after microneedling.
What happens during microneedling?
Our healthcare provider cleans your skin and applies a numbing cream or ointment, such as lidocaine cream. They do this about 30 minutes to 45 minutes before your procedure, so the cream has time to work.
WE use the only FDA approved SKIN-Pen electric device which has needles pulsing up and down to puncture your skin. We can change the length of the needles on the electric device. Longer needles go deeper into your skin, which might be necessary if you have deep scars or pockmarks from acne. Needle lengths can range from 0.5 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters.
You might feel warmth or a scratching sensation on your face once the microneedling starts. Some people feel discomfort if the needles are near bony areas, such as your cheekbones. Deep microneedling might cause a little bleeding.
A microneedling procedure can take 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the size of the area that needs treatment.
What happens after microneedling?
Microneedling is an outpatient procedure, so you can go home once it’s done. Your skin might be red and swollen for up to five days. An ice pack can help reduce irritation and discomfort. Most people can wear makeup the day after the procedure, but you should stay out of the sun until your skin heals.
RISKS / BENEFITS
What are the risks of microneedling?
Microneedling is a safe procedure, but risks may include:
- Bruising
- Scarring.
- Skin infection.
What are the benefits of microneedling?
Microneedling can help improve the appearance and texture of your skin. It can minimize stretch marks, scars, wrinkles and other skin concerns.
It doesn’t carry the risk of skin discoloration, unlike some facial rejuvenation procedures that use heat, light or lasers. This makes microneedling ideal for people with darker skin tones.
RECOVERY AND OUTLOOK
What can I expect after microneedling?
In the days and weeks after microneedling, you might notice that your skin burns or feels tight. Some people also have dry, flaking skin that improves with moisturizer.
Most people need multiple microneedling treatments, usually about 3 weeks to 8 weeks apart. It can take 3 months to 6 months to see results. Afterward, you might need the procedure once a year for maintenance.