What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that’s used to treat skin concerns by stimulating collagen production. Also known as collagen induction therapy, this treatment creates micro-punctures in the skin using miniature, sterilized needles.
Benefits of microneedling
Microneedling has gained popularity for its growing list of benefits. It is said to rejuvenate and plump the skin with minimal discomfort and very little downtime, and it can be adjusted to fit each person’s needs.
Benefits of microneedling can include:
reducing the appearance of scars, including acne scars
reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
reducing enlarged pores
reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation, or dark spots
smoothing uneven skin tone
improving skin elasticity
reducing the appearance of stretch marks
reducing the appearance of scars
promoting hair growth in people with alopecia
Microneedling is considerably less expensive than laser therapy and may work better for some people. Laser treatments involve the use of heat, which can affect your skin’s pigmentation.
People with darker skin tones may prefer microneedling to laser therapy because of safety concernsTrusted Source associated with certain types of laser treatments on skin of color. Research on the effectiveness and safety of using laser treatment on darker skin tones is still lacking.
Benefits of microneedling can include:
reducing the appearance of scars, including acne scars
reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
reducing enlarged pores
reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation, or dark spots
smoothing uneven skin tone
improving skin elasticity
reducing the appearance of stretch marks
reducing the appearance of scars
promoting hair growth in people with alopecia
Microneedling is considerably less expensive than laser therapy and may work better for some people. Laser treatments involve the use of heat, which can affect your skin’s pigmentation.
People with darker skin tones may prefer microneedling to laser therapy because of safety concernsTrusted Source associated with certain types of laser treatments on skin of color. Research on the effectiveness and safety of using laser treatment on darker skin tones is still lacking.
Targeted areas for microneedling
Microneedling is most often used on the face.
In addition to facial concerns, microneedling is sometimes used to treat stretch marks in other areas of the body.
One studyTrusted Source found that microneedling was effective for stretch marks on the thighs and abdominal area when combined with fillers.
Scarring on other body parts may also be treated with this procedure.
In addition to facial concerns, microneedling is sometimes used to treat stretch marks in other areas of the body.
One studyTrusted Source found that microneedling was effective for stretch marks on the thighs and abdominal area when combined with fillers.
Scarring on other body parts may also be treated with this procedure.
How much does microneedling cost?
According to estimates by Dermapen, microneedling may cost anywhere from $200 to $800 per session, depending on the extent of treatment needed. If you only need a light session, you may pay as little as $150.
How does microneedling work?
Microneedling works by encouraging your skin to make more collagen. The pinpricks from the procedure cause slight injury to the skin and the skin responds by making new collagen-rich tissue.
This new skin tissue is more even in tone and texture. It’s common for the skin to lose collagen with age or injury. By encouraging the skin to make new tissue, additional collagen may help make the skin firmer.
Microneedling may also be combined with topical serums, radiofrequency, and platelet-rich plasma.
This new skin tissue is more even in tone and texture. It’s common for the skin to lose collagen with age or injury. By encouraging the skin to make new tissue, additional collagen may help make the skin firmer.
Microneedling may also be combined with topical serums, radiofrequency, and platelet-rich plasma.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Like all cosmetic procedures, microneedling carries some risks. The most common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure. You may also see redness for a few days.
Preparing for microneedling
Before the procedure, You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as ibuprofen and those for acne treatment (like Accutane), well in advance of the procedure.
Procedure for microneedling
During the procedure, a doctor makes small pricks under the skin using a pen-like tool with tiny, sterilized needles. The pinpricks are so small that you likely won’t notice them after the procedure.
What is the optimal care for skin after microneedling?
Since your skin channels are open and sensitive after your procedure, it’s best to avoid the following during your first week of recoveryTrusted Source:
sun exposure
skin care products with alpha-hydroxy acids and retinol
makeup
sweating
You can help your skin heal after microneedling by:
staying hydrated
using an antioxidant serum
using a cooling mask
using collagen-stimulating peptides
sun exposure
skin care products with alpha-hydroxy acids and retinol
makeup
sweating
You can help your skin heal after microneedling by:
staying hydrated
using an antioxidant serum
using a cooling mask
using collagen-stimulating peptides
FAQs
How long does microneedling last?
Results may vary based on the severity of the skin concern, its location, and the treatment plan used.