It is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment used for treating skin concerns like wrinkles, scarring, alopecia, acne, stretch marks, rosacea, etc. by stimulating collagen production. Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy, which creates micro punctures in the skin using sterilized miniature needles.

Now the question arises: who can be the ideal candidate for this procedure? If you’re in good health and have certain skin-related complaints that haven’t responded to any dermatological procedure and home treatments, then you should go for Microneedling. However, consult the best dermatologist near you to make the final decision on whether you should go for this procedure.

Benefits of Microneedling

Microneedling rejuvenates and plumps your skin with minimal discomfort and very little downtime. Benefits of microneedling also include:

• Reduce the appearance of scars such as acne scars.
• Reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation or dark spots.
• Reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Reduce enlarged pores.
• Reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
• Improves skin elasticity.
• Smoothen uneven skin tone.
• Promote hair growth in people with alopecia.

Targeted areas for Microneedling

Microneedling is mostly used on the face. It can also treat stretch marks in the other parts of your body. Even scarring on other parts of your body can also be treated with this procedure.

How much does Microneedling cost?

Microneedling may cost anywhere from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 per session, depending on the extent of the treatment needed.

Microneedling is a cosmetic or aesthetic procedure, which is why it is not covered by insurance. In very rare situations, if a doctor believes the procedure is medically necessary, then it’s recommended to check with your insurance provider beforehand.

There may be some cost for potential follow-up treatments, or you may require touch-up treatments as part of a long-term maintenance plan.

How does Microneedling work?

Microneedling increases the production of collagen. The pinpricks from the needle used in the procedure cause slight injury to your skin and then your skin makes new collagen-rich tissue.

The new skin tissue formed is even in tone and texture. It’s very common for the skin to lose its collagen with age or injury. Encouraging the skin to make new tissue may help make the skin look youthful, firm, and smooth.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?

Like all other cosmetic procedures, microneedling has some risks. These include minor skin irritation or redness immediately after the procedure for a few days. Consult your doctor if you notice more severe side effects, like bleeding, infection, bruising, and peeling.

You should not go for microneedling if you:

• Have open wounds or active acne.
• Have certain skin conditions, like psoriasis or eczema.
• Have gone to radiation therapy recently.
• Have a history of skin scars.
• Women who are pregnant needs to be cleared by their obstetrician or gynecologist before going for treatment.

How to Prepare for Microneedling?

• Consult your skin specialist about how to prepare for your appointment.
• Stop taking certain medications before the procedure such as ibuprofen etc.
• Avoid using any agents that can increase the sensitivity of your skin.
• Stop using topical retinoids and exfoliants before microneedling appointment.

Microneedling procedure

Before microneedling procedure approx. 45 minutes to 1 hour, your skin doctor applies topical anesthetic on the treatment area. This will numb your skin for approximately 30 minutes for the microneedling procedure.

Then, during microneedling procedure, your dermatologist makes tiny pricks under your skin using a pen-like tool with sterilized needles. The pinpricks are so tiny that you may not notice them after the procedure.

Your dermatologist will move the tool evenly across your skin, which results in making your newly rejuvenated skin to be even. To finish your microneedling session, your skin specialist may apply a growth serum or calming treatment.

What to Expect After Microneedling Procedure?

The recovery time of this treatment is minimal. Most people will require very little downtime. Some people may have redness and skin irritation, a natural response to small pinpricks on their skin.

If you’re comfortable, you can go back to work or school after the procedure. However, avoid makeup until your skin heals.

Apply sunscreen while going outside as your skin will be more sensitive to the sun. However, it’s recommended that wait for one week before exposing your skin to sunlight and harsh chemicals.

Post-Care Skin Tips of Microneedling

Since skin channels are open and sensitive after microneedling procedure, it’s best to avoid:

• Makeup
• Sunlight
• skin care products with retinol and alpha-hydroxy acids.
• sweating

To heal your skin after microneedling, make sure to:

• Stay hydrated.
• Use a cooling mask
• Use an antioxidant serum.
• Use collagen-stimulating peptides.

Takeaway

Microneedling is a safe, and effective cosmetic procedure that improves your skin's appearance. It may diminish scarring, reduce wrinkles, and tighten loose or aging skin.

Anyone interested in microneedling should consult dermatologists at Uncover Clinics who are specially trained and experienced in this type of procedure.