Microneedling

People typically notice positive changes after one session, significant changes after three sessions, and dramatic changes after six sessions but the actual number a treatments you will need depends on a few main factors. First and foremost, the condition being treated and how advanced it is. Second, the  other treatment modalities you are combining with Microneedling (you can enhance the results by adding Facial Acupuncture, Light Therapy, Nanoneedling, etc). And third, your skincare and lifestyle routine between treatments (you can speed up your progress by making good choices on a daily basis).

Clinical studies show that the ideal frequency for Microneedling treatments is every fours weeks. This allows the skin to complete the full healing cycle, including the proliferation of collagen and elastin. More frequent treatment can actually have a counter-productive effect on facial rejuvenation. The time between Microneedling sessions is perfect for adding in weekly Facial Acupuncture, Light Therapy, and Nanoneedling.

Want to know more about the science behind Microneedling? Check the next FAQ!

Wound Healing Cascade and Microneedling

Microneedling stimulates the wound healing cascade and repurposes it for skin rejuvenation. The cytokines, keratinocytes, and fibroblasts are important to the mechanism of action of microneedling. Micro-injury of the keratinocytes, by penetration to the D/E junction stimulates the body’s cytokine activity, giving the immune system the false perception of a significant injury. The fibroblasts are prompted to produce higher quality collagen that is light, flexible and soft, much faster than it would during the normal skin rejuvenation cycle.

Hemostasis: The initial phase stops bleeding through vasoconstriction and clotting. The platelets release growth factors and key cytokines. 5-10 minutes post injury

Inflammation: This phase recruits several types of white blood cells, some of which secrete cytokines and growth factors. This activates local endothelial cells, fibroblasts and keratinocytes to enable wound healing. 24-48 hours post injury

Proliferation: The major events of this phase include the influx of fibroblasts, the formation of the Extracellular Matrix (ECM) including collagen formation, new blood vessels, cell generation. 48 hours through 3 weeks post injury.

Maturation and Remodeling: This is characterized by both wound contraction and collagen remodeling. 3-4 weeks post injury (and may continue up to a year)

With the application of a topical anesthetic, Microneedling is a painless procedure. Some people are less sensitive and can tolerate the treatment with no numbing agent at all. We want you to be comfortable during the procedure and will do everything we can to ensure that.

Studies show that the results of Microneedling treatment last three to five years. The stimulation of collagen and elastin in the dermis of the skin creates lasting structural changes that leads to healthier skin.

Botox, on the other hand, freezes the muscles and can lead to eventual atrophy and excessive sagging of skin. Microdermabrasion removes layers of the epidermis, which is already losing thickness at a rate of 0.1mm per year after the age of 35.

Nanoneedling is a variation of Microneedling. Both treatments use the same pen-like device that oscillates up and down to stimulate the skin but Nanoneedling utilizes a unique cartridge that encompasses 81 silicone tips. These microscopic hair-like cones separate the cells within the epidermis to allow skincare products to be pushed into the skin. Nano needling only affects the epidermis, treating within the upper 0.15 mm of the skin.

Nanoneedling, like Microneedling, can increase the absorption rate of skincare products and provoke the healing process that results in skin transformation. The benefits of Nanoneedling include pigmentation reduction, increased cell turnover, skin rejuvenation, and an immediate glow with no downtime. This treatment can be done as often as weekly to gently exfoliate the skin.

The main difference between the two is that the lack of needles prevents stimulation of the deeper layers of the skin at the level of the dermis. As a result, there is no stimulation collagen or elastin so Nanoneedling is not as strong of a standalone treatment but this perceived weakness is actually a strength because Nanonedling can be used between Microneedling sessions to benefit the epidermis while the deeper levels are completing the collagen repair cycle. Nanoneedling is also a great choice for those people who are too sensitive for Microneedling or, for whatever reason, can’t tolerate it.

Yes! You should absolutely continue with your esthetician and skincare routine. Remember that Microneedling increases the absorption efficiency of the skin so be sure to use the best quality skincare products so you are nourishing with the best nutrients possible.

Also keep in mind that certain treatments (botox, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, etc) should be spaced out, away from Microneedling, to allow healing time or due to incompatibility. Your practitioner will review your past treatments and future plans so we can come up with the best protocol possible for you.

Unfortunately, in most cases, health insurance will not cover the cost of treatment. We encourage you to contact your health insurance company to confirm your coverage and benefits. Payment is due at time of service.