Microneedling
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural healing process, promoting collagen and elastin production, leading to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin. Ideal candidates for microneedling are individuals seeking to improve the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, or mild skin laxity. It is suitable for all skin types and tones.
How does microneedling work?
At Aligned Aesthetics we use Rejuvapen NXT a medical device that uses stainless steel needles to create controlled injuries ( micro-channels) in the skin. Creation of the microchannels kick starts your body’s natural wound healing response and promotes the release of growth factors and collagen production. Why are the release of growth factors and production of new collagen so beneficial to you? They reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, reduce pore size, decrease appearance of acne scars/stretch marks/hyperpigmentation, smooth and plump the skin, lift/tighten the skin, increase hair restoration, and repair sun damaged skin. I love micro-needling because it is one treatment with numerous skin benefits. It’s appropriate for all skin types with very little down time. For best results you will need 4-6 treatments schedule 4-5 weeks apart.
How do I prepare for the treatment?
Please follow these pre-treatment instructions:
- Avoid Accutane for 6 months prior to treatment.
- Avoid retinoids, topical antibiotics, exfoliants, hydroquinone, sunburn, and benzoyl peroxide 3 days prior to procedure.
- No IPL/Laser procedures for 7 days prior to procedure
- No waxing, depilatory creams, or electrolysis 5-7 days prior to the procedure.
- If use of a peel was recommended in conjunction with the microneedling, no topical agents that may increase skin sensitivity, reaction to the peel, or dryness 3-4 days prior to the peel (topical retinoid or hydroquinone products). No acids or defoliants that may be drying or irritating to the skin (such as alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) beta hydroxyl acids (BHA), exfoliating masks, hydroquinone, or benzoyl peroxide acne products). If no peel, 24 hours without irritating products.
- Use an antiviral agent for 2 days prior to and day of treatment if history of cold sores.
- Avoid permanent make up or injectables on or near the treatment area for 2 weeks prior to your microneedling session. Microneedling will not be completed earlier than 2 weeks post permanent make up or injectable procedures.
- Use sunscreen with an SPF 30 or more daily. Sun burnt skin cannot be treated. Skin that is thin, sensitized or compromised in any way may not be treated until fully healed.
- Avoid sun exposure and/or use of tanning beds, including self-tanning products 24 before and after the treatment, but preferably one week prior to procedure.
What can I expect during my treatment?
Clinical photography will be taken on you prior to treatment and is an important part of the clinical record. Please arrive with a clean dry face. A topical numbing agent will be applied to your face for approximately 20 mins prior to treatment. I will then cleanse the treatment area to ensure it is free of any dirt or oils. We will decide on what glider (topical serum) to use during the procedure. Examples of gliders include exosomes, PRF, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. I will then start the microneedling process. Completing small sections of your treatment area at a time until the entire area is treated. Treatments take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. You will be able to talk throughout the procedure.
What can I expect after my treatment?
There is minimal downtime after microneedling. However, nearly everyone will have sunburn like effect for 1-3 days after treatment. Your skin may feel tight, dry, swollen, and sensitive to touch. The first day your skin will be red and flushed after treatment.
- You may clean your face with a gentle cleanser (found in after care kit) before bed. Use cool water, using hands only and pat dry no earlier than 4 hours after procedure.
- Use Tylenol only as needed for any soreness.
- Do not pick or scratch at treated skin but instead keep moisturized (products from after care kit).
- Avoid strenuous exercise or sweating for 24 hours. Excess blood flow and sweat can cause discomfort and irritation to compromise skin. This includes saunas.
- Avoid sun exposure for 3 days and if possible 10 days. Apply a minimum of SPF 30 every 2 hours.
- Do not tweeze or wax the treated area for at least one week after your treatment.
- You may use mineral makeup after 24 hours.
- Restart regular skin care regimen in 48 hours and Retin A in 72 hours.
- Drink lots of water
- Recommend follow up and repeat treatments in 4 weeks and for best results a series of 3 – 5 treatments.