There are some considerations that you should be aware of before microneedling. Let’s go through the basics.
Is microneedling right for me?
We recommend consulting with your healthcare professional to ensure that microneedling is suitable for your needs. You may also wish to look over the following handy guides:
- Am I eligible for microneedling?
- What is Collagen Induction Therapy?
- How to microneedle (Everything you need)
- What to expect after microneedling
- Microneedling 101
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a cosmeceutical procedure; this is a procedure that achieves cosmetic results. Microneedling is also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT).
When microneedling, tiny needles from a motorized microneedling pen are used to make microscopic punctures in the skin. The microscopic holes created during the treatment (also known as microchannels) trigger a trauma/healing response in your skin.
Your skin perceives that there has been a small injury and floods the tissue with the signal to naturally produce more collagen and elastin to heal the ‘wound.’
As the skin heals, skin imperfections soften and even disappear entirely.
Microneedling will help treat fine lines, wrinkles, scarring, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, stretch marks, dryness, and dullness, making it an ideal anti-aging treatment.
Important considerations of microneedling
Allow time for your skin to recover
After microneedling, redness is typical – this may last for several days. For this reason, you’ll want to ensure there is plenty of time between microneedling and any important events you may have scheduled.
Protect your skin from the sun
During this time, microneedling can make your skin more photosensitive. Any sun exposure without adequate sunscreen can increase your risk of developing hyperpigmentation, always wear a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 50+, and ideally a mineral-based sunscreen.
Hygiene is important
Microneedling can have some other risks, such as scarring or infection if the treatment is performed unhygienically. It’s crucial to remember that microneedling is a cosmeceutical treatment; you are essentially creating microscopic open wounds in the skin; appropriate care must be taken to create a sterile environment, including sterilizing your pen.
Wipe down any surfaces where you will be microneedling with antiseptic spray. Tie back your hair to keep it away from your face and cleanse your skin before microneedling. Thoroughly wash and glove your hands.
Only use cartridges once
Microneedling cartridges are designed for single use only and should be disposed of after each use. Ensure that you’re opening a new cartridge every time you perform microneedling.
If in doubt, check with your doctor
Avoid microneedling if you have cuts or abrasions on your skin, active acne or any other skin condition that may place you at higher risk of injury or infection.
Microneedling should also be avoided on those under 18 years of age.
If in doubt, seek advice from your healthcare professional to assess if microneedling is right for your needs.
How do I start microneedling and what do I do if I need help?
Whether it’s choosing the right microneedling pen for your needs, understanding how to get the most from your treatments, ensuring your environment is sterile or simply determining how to get closer to achieving the results that you desire – we’re here to help!
