Unlock younger, glowing skin in 10 days with the magic of skin needling
The term “skin needling” may invoke a sense of trepidation, but it’s rapidly winning over skincare aficionados and professionals alike. While the notion of rolling needles across your face might seem daunting, the glowing outcomes often make the procedure well worth the initial apprehension. The adage “No pain, no gain” couldn’t be more fitting in this context. In this post, we’ll demystify skin needling, exploring everything from its benefits to the right age to start and proper aftercare.
What is Skin Needling and How Does It Work?
Skin needling, also known as microneedling, employs a dermapen equipped with tiny, fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. This triggers the skin’s natural healing mechanisms, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin. Additionally, these micro-injuries allow for deeper penetration of topical serums and infusions, offering a targeted approach to a range of skin issues such as fine lines, pigmentation, and uneven texture.
In-Clinic Skin Needling vs. At-Home Microneedling
While there are a variety of at-home microneedling devices on the market, it’s crucial to understand that these aren’t a substitute for professional treatments. The key differences lie in the depth and size of needles used, the precision of the application, the quality of treatment tools, and a substantially reduced risk of damage or infection when done professionally.
Unveiling the Benefits
In terms of effectiveness, skin needling isn’t just anecdotal praise; it’s backed by scientific evidence. A peer-reviewed study published in the National Library of Medicine supports the efficacy of microneedling for scar treatment and skin texture improvement1.
- Stimulates collagen production
- Reduces the appearance of scars and pores
- Smoothens fine lines and wrinkles
- Offers a firmer, more toned appearance
When is the Right Age to Start?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but most dermatologists recommend starting in your late 20s to early 30s, as this is when natural collagen production begins to decline.
Microneedling vs. Microdermabrasion
Don’t let the similar names confuse you; these are vastly different treatments. While microneedling focuses on deep collagen production, microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin’s surface using abrasive materials and suction.
Preparing for the Treatment
Consult a qualified dermatologist or dermal therapist for a tailored treatment plan. Experts can offer insights into needle depths for specific skin issues like acne scarring. It’s essential to have this discussion, especially if you have a low pain tolerance.
Procedure and Aftercare
Before diving into the skin needling process, some clinics may apply a numbing cream to your face to minimise discomfort. Generally, the actual needling takes around 10 minutes, so it’s a fairly quick procedure. However, each clinic’s protocol may vary. After your treatment, it’s not uncommon to experience some redness, similar to mild sunburn. This usually starts to subside within the first 24 hours. According to the Victorian Cosmetic Institute2, it’s advisable to skip make-up and high-intensity workouts for at least a day following the procedure. Additionally, you should avoid using active serums containing ingredients like retinol and glycolic acid for up to a week to allow your skin ample time to heal.
Conclusion
Skin needling might involve a short-lived discomfort, but the long-lasting results speak for themselves. It’s usually recommended to undergo a series of three sessions for optimal outcomes. If radiant, rejuvenated skin is what you seek, then look no further than this transformative treatment.
Footnotes
- Iriarte C, Awosika O, Rengifo-Pardo M, Ehrlich A. Review of applications of microneedling in dermatology. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017 Aug 8;10:289-298. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S142450. PMID: 28848356; PMCID: PMC5556180. Read the full study here. ↩
- “Micro Needling: Procedure, Benefits, Risks.” Victorian Cosmetic Institute. Read more here. ↩
