Before we go any further, let me be clear: you can put me in the “ready for anything” category when it comes to beauty. I'll try just about anything—especially if the purported benefits help one of my many skin conditions. is at the top of my listacne scars. These little markers chose to make their presence felt in my life when I was 23 years old. I've been dealing with them ever since and I'm willing to try all their fade, brighten and shine treatments under the sun. So after hearing so many raves about microneedling I had to see for myself.
According to one study, nearly 100% of microneedling participants reported a noticeable difference and 80% a great improvement in the appearance of their acne scars after one treatment.That solid fact was all I needed to say yes. So I immediately made my appointment for a microneedling treatment at the clinic.
Are you as curious as I am about microneedling? Upfront, state-certified dermatologists, Dr. Bruce Katz and Dr. Sejal Shah and esthetician Josie Holmes, everything you need to know about microneedling, the benefits and their thoughts on at-home and in-office treatments.
Meet the expert
- Bruce Katz, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at the Juva Skin & Laser Center in New York City.
- Sejal Shah, MD, is a certified dermatologist with SmarterSkin Dermatology in New York City.
- Josie Holmes is a beautician inSKINNEY Medspa.
Was that microneedling?
"Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that uses a device with very fine, sharp needle tips to pierce the skin," says Katz. “The functionality behind microneedling is that once the body feels the tiny stitches, those cuts heal, resulting in a refreshed appearance; the perforations are superficial, so the pain is minimal.” This process rejuvenates your skin by refreshing itcollagenproduction which, in turn, reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and lifts the overall texture of the skin.
The specific microneedling treatment I underwent was performed with a tool called Vivace, a form of radiofrequency microneedling. “What excited me about Vivace was, of course, the combination of radiofrequency and microneedling, but even more so how precise, clean and deep it was able to deliver both. Finally, add blue and red LEDs and you have a trio of modalities to treat various skin conditions," explains Gabe Lubin, founder ofcartessa aesthetics. “Doctors can select the exact depth that works best for each patient's skin type and condition and use robotic precision delivery to go down to 3.5 millimeters in 0.1 millimeter increments – no other device can do that. .” Blue light is helpful for those suffering from acne as the light and heat target the breakout-causing bacteria.
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[Editor's Note: This illustration shows a derma roller, a tool that penetrates the skin more superficially than a professional microneedling pen, making it safer for home use].
Benefits of Microneedling
- Improves skin texture
- Stimulates collagen production
- May help reduce scarring andhyperpigmentation
- May reduce the appearance of wrinkles
"Microneedling itself has only modest effects, such as improving skin texture and smoothness," says Katz. “But when radiofrequency is added, microneedling can have a bigger impact. Radiofrequency waves travel through the needles to heat the dermis, which can improve collagen production. Patients may see an improvement in minor wrinkles, acne scarring, and mild skin tightening when combined with radiofrequency microneedling in the dermatologist's office is also performed with sharper needles, improving the results patients see.You can also improve microneedling results by using a serum with the procedure; For best results, the serum penetrates deeper into the skin."
Shah, who performed my procedure, told me that the biggest benefit of microneedling is its ability to radically improve skin texture. And it's not just for the face - microneedling can be used to improve pigmentation, lip lines, wrinkles, acne scars, hair loss, stretch marks, post-pregnancy stretch marks and skin lightening.
“Microneedling is a collagen boosting treatment that is great for overall skin rejuvenation. It addresses structural issues related to pores, acne scars, wrinkles, tightens sagging skin and more,” Shah explained to me as my numbing cream took effect. Then we started treatment treatment.
How to prepare for microneedling
If you use intensive topical treatments (such as thoseRetinol), you should stop using it a few days before microneedling treatment. Harsh products can irritate the skin, so gentler products are key. "In addition to a clean, toned face, avoid direct sunlight for at least 48 hours before using retinol and about three days before and three days after," notesholmes "I also advise against using harsh acids in the week following the procedure."
You should arrive at your appointment with clean, dry skin (if not, the technician will wash your face so it is clean before the procedure). Then you will most likely be rubbed with numbing cream so that the pain is not so severe.
What You Can Expect From Microneedling
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That hurts? After letting the numbing cream seep into my skin for half an hour, it was honestly a simple process of sticking a bunch of needles into my skin over and over again. So to answer definitively, it doesn't hurt, but it doesn't feel good. In terms of pain, I experienced a tolerable treatment that lasted a full 20 minutes. To be honest, it felt like five minutes and then it was over, I was fine. My forehead, hairline and jaw areas were more sensitive than other areas. I barely felt the tool as it glided across my cheeks, which Shah surprisingly confirmed as the deepest depth.
After microneedling, the procedure was continued with a soothing and moisturizing serum.protection maskthis really felt like heaven. Ironically, it didn't feel like I'd been stung hundreds of times, even after the numbing cream wore off a few hours later. Contrary to how scary this sounds, I didn't feel any pain.
"The great thing about this treatment is that there's no downtime to speak of." says Shah. "There's a little bit of redness after that and maybe a few areas of spot bleeding, but really it's kind of a no-downtime treatment, so most people are a little red here. back to normal, and the next day you can resume your normal skin care routine and activities."
Side effects
Immediately after my face mask, my cheeks and forehead were slightly flushed. This is a normal side effect of minimal bleeding that occurs during treatment. I was shaken because I am experiencing the only timerednessit's after a crazy workout. But that was over after an hour. The treatment essentially injures her skin so that she looks like new again.
One more disclaimer: I have extremesensitive skin, then this cannot happen to you. But on the second day my skin became rough and itchy. It wasn't unbearable, but it was definitely uncomfortable. To counteract this, I slathered onCortisone anti-itch cream($7) in the morning and before going to bed. I also noticed small marks (especially on my forehead) from the needles.
On the fourth day, my itching was almost completely gone. Even tiny traces after the operation disappeared more and more every day. These are normal side effects and should go away in a few days.
"There's no risk or downtime when microneedling is done correctly," notes Katz. “If microneedling is not done correctly, there are serious risks such as infection, scarring, hyperpigmentation andbruises."
Microneedling at home vs. in the office
"Microneedling in the doctor's office can go much deeper than at-home devices and is therefore more effective," says Katz. “Devices for home use have minimal benefits compared to microneedling in the office. The needles are less sharp than office microneedles, so there is less risk of injury for the home user. That said, at-home microneedling has more. Let's say you have a pimple on your face that broke out during your at-home treatment - then you could be spreading the p.acnes bacteria all over the rest of your face, which could lead to more acne.I recommend leaving microneedling to a dermatologist who can ensure you get the best results."
after treatment
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Honestly, that inner-lit glow is probably my favorite benefit of the process to date. The photo on the left was taken right after removing my sheet mask, while the photo on the right was taken the morning after my microneedling treatment. I was so impressed with the glow of my skin. That glow on the cheekbones doesn't come from highlighters, folks.
I was also amazed at how smooth my skin felt and how my pore size decreased significantly. Because of my naturally dry skin, I load up on moisturizing oils every morning and am addicted to how soft it leaves my skin. I woke up with smooth skin without all the extra work and I loved it so much I decided to leave.Make-up-freiuntil my skin was fully healed.
the last snack
Studies show that their topical products penetrate deeper after microneedling.It's so, so true. I loved this hydrating moisturizer this month. But this week, after my treatment, it felt so incredibly comforting on my skin — to the point where I'm looking forward to cleansing my skin and applying it as soon as I walk into my apartment at the end of the day.
My pores look so open and exposed - hence the feeling that my skin was absorbing the product efficiently (which is why I chose to go easy on my face makeup). I let my skin absorb every second of the effects of my topical products.
FAQs
Are there any risks to microneedling? ›
Skin damage is a risk that commonly occurs with microneedling devices. The damage may include bleeding, bruising, redness, tightness, itching and peeling, and these typically go away without any treatment after a few days or weeks.
Is microneedling worth the cost? ›Because this kind of treatment is going to give your skin so many benefits, it is worth the money. And, when compared to other types of treatments and procedures that can offer the same type of results, this one is going to more inexpensive than most other options.
Is micro needling a waste of money? ›The bottom line? On the treatment review platform RealSelf, of members who've had microneedling, 81% say it's Worth It, citing benefits like firmer, more evenly toned skin with fewer fine lines and less acne scarring.
What is the disadvantage of micro needling? ›The most common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure. You may also see redness for a few days. Call your doctor if you notice more severe side effects, such as: bleeding.
Who is not a good candidate for microneedling? ›Microneedling is safe for almost anyone. The only contraindications are for those who currently have acne, infections, or wound-healing issues.
Is microneedling worth it 2022? ›Is microneedling worth the money? Of the RealSelf members who've had microneedling, 85% say it's Worth It. Their reviews cite benefits like firmer, more evenly toned skin with less hyperpigmentation, fewer fine lines, better elasticity, and less acne scarring.
What age is best for microneedling? ›It is a good idea to start this type of treatment in your 20's or 30's so that the boost in collagen production is more significant. This is going to train the skin to produce collagen regularly and keep your skin looking younger longer.
Is microneedling better than Botox? ›Experts recommend neuromodulators such as Botox when patients have issues with moderate to severe wrinkles and folds. Microneedling is a better option for those whose aesthetic concerns are caused by reduced collagen production, sun damage, and other skin-damaging factors.
Is microneedling safe for older skin? ›Microneedling is an aesthetic technique that will use very fine needles to make microchannels in your desired treatment area. This beneficial process will work on young and old skin, and we can use this minimally invasive treatment to correct skin problems that you develop at many different stages in your life.
How long do the benefits of microneedling last? ›In general, you can expect the results of SkinPen microneedling to last for four to six weeks. The longevity of these results can be attributed to the length of your natural cellular turnover cycle, as well as how long newly produced collagen can last in the skin.
Does microneedling make you look younger? ›
The practice of microneedling creates microscopic wounds on the surface of your skin. This causes your body to deploy a healing response, stimulating collagen and elastin production. As a result, you may see your skin appear fresher, younger, and smoother.
Can microneedling be done under eyes? ›Microneedling can be used under your eyes to promote collagen production, which can lead to firmer, more youthful-looking skin. This procedure is typically used to treat dark circles or translucent skin under your eyes.
What do dermatologists say about microneedling? ›We've spoke to countless dermatologists about the benefits of microneedling and they can all agree: The treatment does it all. The minimally invasive treatment can be used all over the body—from scalp to ankles—to improve the appearance of scars, boost collagen, or encourage hair growth.
Does microneedling get rid of brown spots? ›Microneedling does a tremendous job of lightening and reversing hyperpigmentation and sun damage. This is again due to the power of collagen production and its ability to repair and restore your skin. There's some research that suggests that microneedling is the most effective therapy for sun spots.
Can Micro Needling cause wrinkles? ›Fortunately for the people worried about this happening, this isn't an effect of these treatments. Most of what you may mistake for wrinkles is actually your skin recovering after your microneedling session, with the skin tightening treatment taking hold days or hours after your skin treatment.
What not to do after microneedling? ›First Week of Healing: Keep treated area clean; avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive exercise, sweating, swimming, or exposing skin to heat and sun. week or so after treatment. Moisturizer should be applied one to two times per day.
Can Micro Needling cause more wrinkles? ›Microneedling can cause short-term wrinkling
As MT Dermaroller explains, microneedling causes the skin to lose water due to the needles piercing the skin and damaging the cells. Following the treatment, the skin can appear dry, which may cause temporary wrinkles.
Finally, another skin treatment that celebrities love is microneedling. This treatment helps skin regenerate faster through collagen induction therapy, which can help to reduce signs of aging and improve the tone, texture, and firmness of the skin.
Which skin condition should you avoid when microneedling? ›Contraindications are limited, but include the following[1][10]: Active acne, especially inflammatory lesions. Active herpes labialis or other localized infection in the treatment area, including warts. Moderate-to-severe chronic skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis.
Who is microneedling best for? ›It can minimize stretch marks, scars, wrinkles and other skin concerns. It doesn't carry the risk of skin discoloration, unlike some facial rejuvenation procedures that use heat, light or lasers. This makes microneedling ideal for people with darker skin tones.
Does microneedling speed up aging? ›
This medical procedure helps to prevent skin ageing by creating micro-punctures in it and stimulating its remodelling, resulting in the reduction of wrinkles, discolouration, and stretch marks.
How many months does microneedling last? ›In general, you can expect the results of microneedling treatments to last for about three to five months. The longevity of the results depends on two factors; how long new collagen lasts in your skin and the degree of your skin concerns.
Is a peel or microneedling better? ›Chemical peels generally work best on superficial imperfections, while microneedling penetrates deeper to improve more troublesome issues. Many people with acne scars find a combination of microneedling and chemical peels deliver the best results.
Is 60 too old for microneedling? ›Microneedling is a skincare treatment that can be beneficial for women over 50. It can help to improve the appearance of wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks, and it can also increase the absorption of skincare products.
Does microneedling work on 70 year olds? ›The short answer is yes – it works on older skin, it works on younger skin and it works on any skin type. Before you start your microneedling session, make sure you have cleaned your skin properly. This helps to avoid infections and other health risks.
How many times a year should you get microneedling? ›To maintain the results of your initial series of microneedling treatments, you should get treatments 2 or 3 times a year. These maintenance appointments will refresh your skin and help maintain the amazing results you've hopefully seen!
Which is better for wrinkles microneedling or fillers? ›Dermal fillers might be faster, but skin needling is simply better for your skin's overall health thanks to the focus on natural procedures that stimulate your body's natural healing processes.
Are fillers better than microneedling? ›When the dermal filler wears off, your skin reverts to its original appearance or drops some of its former elasticity. On the other hand, micro-needling works with a patient's natural growth factors to strengthen & add volume to the skin so that it can keep improving over time.
Which is better HydraFacial or microneedling? ›Microneedling is a better option then HydraFacial if you have deep, permanent acne scars and other facial scarring and conditions listed earlier. It is great if you want to replace elasticity and firm your skin.
Is microneedling good for Crepey skin? ›Hence, microneedling is also referred to as “collagen induction therapy.” The new collagen and elastin will then improve the appearance of crepey wrinkles and rejuvenate your skin, making it look smoother.
How long does it take for collagen to rebuild after microneedling? ›
This triggers your body's wound healing processes to heal your micro wounds immediately. However, the most dramatic results will not be visible until four to six weeks after treatment. It takes roughly this long for your body to create new, strong, healthy collagen.
Does microneedling slow down aging? ›The treatment is known for increasing skin thickness and raising collagen and elastin levels—reversing some effects of aging. The process of microneedling is safe for all skin types, including darker skin that is more susceptible to hyperpigmentation.
How many sessions of microneedling do I need? ›Microneedling typically requires nine months of treatment. During this time, you'll need three to six treatments spaced out every two to six weeks to see full results. The exact number of treatments and the time between them will vary by type, location, and skin concern.
How many times do you need to do microneedling to see results? ›Most people need between three and six treatments to see their final results. For younger people, one to two treatments are often enough. It all depends on your body's unique cellular turnover rate, your age, and how you've treated your skin in the past.
How long does it take for skin to look good after microneedling? ›Within a few days of treatment, patients will begin to see brighter, glowing skin and full results will appear within two to four weeks after treatment. To achieve ideal results, multiple SkinPen® treatments spaced out over several months are recommended.
What is the best treatment for aging face? ›Botox and Xeomin are two of the most effective treatments available for wrinkles on the market. They're also more cost-effective and less risky than options such as a surgical facelift. Results typically appear within days after treatment and last for months.
How long does microneedling take to tighten skin? ›After treatment, your skin produces its own collagen to keep itself tight, young, and healthy. Therefore, it will take roughly four to six weeks after your first treatment session to notice drastically tightened skin.
Why does my face look worse after microneedling? ›That's just a sign of exfoliation, and it's actually a good sign. It means that cell turnover is happening (which means collagen production is occurring) and that new skin is being created. In most cases, this exfoliation happens the day after microneedling and can make the texture look a bit dull.
Can you microneedle upper eyelids? ›Answer: Microneedling
It is not recommended to microneedle upper eyelids. Scar gels and creams with an SPF would be suggested first to help minimize the appearance of scarring. Laser treatments are more abrasive and will require having some downtime, but can be an option as well.
Answer: Microneedling + PRP- Upper eyelids
Microneedling with PRP is an excellent treatment and completely safe to the delicate upper and lower eye area. Microneedling helps strengthen, tighten and improves the skins appearance along with the collagen induction. Enjoy your treatment!
What is the best facial for under eye bags? ›
Microcurrent Facial
“It's one of the most effective, non-invasive anti-aging treatments—no needles, fillers or downtime involved,” says Shamara Bondaroff, founder of SB Skin. “And my clients always notice the most dramatic result around the eye area.”
Possible Side effects
Damage to blood vessels, hematoma, infection an/or irritation. Temporary or permanent nerve damage that may result in pain or numbness. Infection is a slight possibility.
Microneedling procedures aren't painful, but they can be uncomfortable, especially for patients who may be afraid of needles. Microneedling uses tiny needlepoints to create punctures within the dermis; doing so helps encourage the body's collagen and elastin production, leading to younger and smoother-looking skin.
How often should you microneedle your face? ›How Often Should You do Microneedling Treatments? As a general rule of thumb, microneedling treatment can be safely done about once a month or every 4 to 6 weeks.
Does microneedling help dark circles under eyes? ›If you're looking to reduce dark circles under your eyes, microneedling will help by increasing collagen to the area and essentially adding volume where volume has been lost. At the same time, the rest of your skin will benefit from the increased collagen.
What should I put on my face after microneedling? ›Hyaluronic acid serums should be used post-microneedling. Use this from days 1 to 14 after microneedling to hydrate and replenish the skin. After 1 to 4 days, you can apply hyaluronic acid, toners, or moisturisers with a base of green tea extract, Vitamin E, kiwi oil, and linseed oil to the skin.
What does skin look like day after microneedling? ›Patients can expect their skin to look red immediately after a microneedling treatment. This is because of increased blood flow to the skin as part of the body's natural wound healing response to the ultrafine needles of the microneedling handpiece that have penetrated the skin's surface.
Can you get nerve damage from microneedling? ›Objective. Some dry needling treatments involve repetitive and rapid needle insertions into myofascial trigger points. This type of treatment causes muscle injury and can also damage nerve fibers.
Is microneedling safer than Botox? ›Consider the benefits of microneedling over Botox injections: Addresses more than wrinkles and lines. Less invasive. Fewer side effects.
Why do my wrinkles look worse after microneedling? ›In the short term, lines can appear worse for the first few days after a treatment due to transepidermal water loss (TEWL). You can reassure your clients that any wrinkle that develops quickly is not due to loss of structural integrity and it is temporary.
What do dermatologists think of microneedling? ›
Is microneedling effective? Yes: When done by a professional dermatologist, "microneedling can be effective at boosting the penetration of topical skincare and plumping skin, and there is data to show its efficacy in reducing fine lines and wrinkles," Dr. Gohara says.
How long does it take your face to heal from microneedling? ›Microneedling Recovery Time. Healing from microneedling usually takes a mere 24 hours. However, it may take up to two to three days depending on the extent of the treatment. You can are free to return to work or school immediately after treatment and wear makeup 24 hours after your treatment.
Can microneedling make your face worse? ›While it can work wonders at improving acne scars, microneedling can actually spread bacteria in the skin, making breakouts worse. Pin point bleeding isn't uncommon. According to Dr. Shafran, it's normal for there to be some pinpoint bleeding on the skin from having the needles inserted into the skin.
How often should I microneedle my face? ›How Often Should You do Microneedling Treatments? As a general rule of thumb, microneedling treatment can be safely done about once a month or every 4 to 6 weeks.
What are the side effects of microneedling on face? ›What are the side effects of microneedling? There are a few temporary side effects to be aware of with microneedling. The procedure causes short-term swelling, redness, and skin flaking, which can last for a few days. Most people can return to wearing regular makeup within a day of treatment.
What should you not put on your face after microneedling? ›Avoid exfoliants, retinols, and vitamin C
Avoid any skin care product that contains harsh chemicals meant to exfoliate. Avoid anything that's scented, and don't use glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Retinol and vitamin C serum should be avoided for at least the first 48 hours after microneedling.
This medical procedure helps to prevent skin ageing by creating micro-punctures in it and stimulating its remodelling, resulting in the reduction of wrinkles, discolouration, and stretch marks.
What is better fillers or microneedling? ›Skin Needling vs Dermal Fillers: Comparing The Benefits
Although the results of micro-needling or skin needling might not be quite as instantaneous as dermal fillers the end results are often much better through enhancement of your natural features and the added benefit of results lasting up to 2 years.