Aging brings about certain changes in the skin due to decreased collagen production. Some people seek cosmetic procedures that can modify or reverse these changes. Fortunately, microneedling is an easy solution that accomplishes just that.
You may benefit from this skin rejuvenation procedure if you have acne, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, lax skin, scars, or other cosmetic skin issues. Learn more about what to expect with this treatment at Revive Clinic.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Before you sign up for a consultation, you might be wondering how the process works. Microneedling is considered to be a “natural” treatment that can boost the organic collagen production process in your skin’s deeper layers, resulting in a more youthful appearance with healthier, plumper skin.
One of the most common reasons clients like microneedling is because it can dramatically reduce fine lines and wrinkles. When you attend a microneedling session, your provider will use a topical numbing cream for your comfort. Then, they’ll use the handheld microneedling tool with tiny sterilized needles to create miniature pricks in your skin.
These little “wounds” (commonly referred to as microchannels) kickstart your body’s skin-healing process, and the “new” skin is much brighter and tighter. Your provider will likely spread a nutrient-rich serum or cream on your face at the end to further support the healing process and strengthen collagen and elastin production.
The whole skin rejuvenation procedure takes roughly 10-30 minutes, depending on how large the treatment area is.
What Does Microneedling Treat?
This treatment has grown very popular for treating various skin-related issues. While it’s most typically known to fight signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines, here are some other skin conditions that can benefit from microneedling:
- Acne scars
- Discoloration
- Sun damage
- Fine lines or wrinkles
- Uneven skin texture
While many of these potential treatment options involve the face, microneedling is an equally powerful tool for the neck and decollete. If you are looking to treat scars, this treatment is also effective on other body parts, such as your stomach and thighs.
Schedule a complimentary consultation with us to determine whether microneedling is right for you. We can assess your skin and devise a custom treatment plan tailored to your skin’s unique needs.
When Will You See Results?
Unlike injectables that often promise immediate results, effects from microneedling tend to appear a bit more gradually. Right after your session, you might notice some improvement in the overall texture of your skin due to the increased blood flow. However, your new and healed skin takes time to develop.
The point of microneedling is to improve collagen production in the treatment areas, a process that develops more slowly over time. This process varies from person to person. You may not notice any real benefits in the treatment area for a few weeks. Some don’t see the full effects of their treatment for a few months after their first collagen induction therapy session.
How Long Do Results Last?
The good news is that the results are semi-permanent, so you don’t have to come into the office weekly or monthly. Skin rejuvenation sessions are scheduled every four weeks at first. Once you have the results you desire, your provider will see you every three months for follow-up sessions.
Pre-Microneedling Treatment Instructions
Talk to your provider about what you should and shouldn’t do before microneedling. While this procedure is relatively simple and straightforward, the steps you take before treatment can positively impact your results.
Avoid Sun Exposure
It’s best to avoid sun exposure and laser procedures before this skin rejuvenation treatment. If you have a sunburn on the day of your appointment, you will likely have to reschedule.
Steer Clear of Harsh Topical Products
If you use drying creams, retinoids, or topical antibiotics, we may tell you to stop a few days before your microneedling sessions. We may also ask you to avoid waxing a week before the skin rejuvenation procedure.
Don’t Apply Makeup the Day Of
On the day of your treatment, your face needs to be clean and free of lotion, oil, powder, sunscreen, and makeup. Of course, the provider will also take time pre-treatment to wipe away anything on your face, but ideally, patients shouldn’t arrive with full make-up.
If you take Accutane, let us know.
Post-Microneedling Recovery Tips
Recovery is often quick with little to no downtime. After your session, you should feel free to head back to the office or run your errands. However, you can take a few post-treatment steps to ensure you get the best results.
Stay Out of the Sun and the Gym
First, you will want to skip any trips to the beach or gym. Exposing your skin to the sun in the first 24 hours can affect the healing process.
You should also avoid strenuous activity for 72 hours. After those three days pass, you can return to your typical routine at the gym without worrying about exposing your newly exposed skin to bacteria.
Avoid Makeup for a Day or So
You also want to avoid wearing makeup like foundation and cover-up in the treatment areas for at least 24 hours. Makeup can clog the pores on your “new” skin if worn too shortly after treatment. Gentle, unscented products with natural ingredients are generally okay.
Schedule Your Consultation
Are you struggling with acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, or another similar condition? Your skin could benefit from microneedling. If you’d like to know more or set up a consultation, contact Byron Foster, MD, at Revive Clinic in Oklahoma City, OK. We can’t wait to treat you!