Microneedling Treatment – Types, Benefits, Results & Risks

Overview | Microneedling types | Treatment steps | Benefits | Results

Microneedling treatment is a simple and safe type of skin treatment that is used to heal skin scars and marks. The treatment works by the use of fine needles, which prick the skin to encourage the growth of collagen for a healthier, youthful skin. The treatment is quite a popular anti-aging remedy. Microneedling is growing quickly in popularity, as it is minimally invasive. I get lots of questions from patients who are curious, as to how this treatment works. So, today, I want to address some of these queries that I have received by sharing with you some important information on microneedling treatment. 

Many patients often ask me when and where microneedling is used. Microneedling can be used anywhere on the body but the most common application is on the facial skin. To look closely, microneedling works on the face, neck, arms, legs, and the abdomen. 

Microneedling treatment is used to manage uneven tones of skin, acne scars, signs of aging like wrinkles and age spots, alopecia, skin rejuvenation, drug-delivering, hyperhidrosis, and more. On the body, microneedling treatment can be used to handle stretch marks; loose skin, uneven texture of the skin around the abdomen area after weight loss or delivery; and even scarring. In particular, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes the efficacy of microneedling in treating vertical lines around the mouth. When you are young, your body produces sufficient collagen levels to keep your skin supple and youthful. As you age, the production of collagen goes down. This is where a microneedling treatment can step in and fill up this gap by promoting your own collagen production for younger-looking skin through the process of neocollagensis. 

What are the types of microneedling devices?

With advancements in technology, there are many devices used for the process of microneedling. Let’s take a look at the main ones. 

1. Dermaroller – A derma roller is a device with a handle on one end and a roller with fine needles on the other. This device is handheld for the microneedling treatment procedure. The derma roller causes skin injury that can be controlled. There is no actual damage to the skin and only the scar tissue is targeted for healing. Derma rollers are a popular microneedling device for home use.
   If you use a derma roller at home be sure to learn the right methods of sterilizing the device and use a moisturizer on your skin after the treatment. However, home derma rollers are not very effective as the depth of the needle is important. The technique and amount of pressure applied for the roller on the skin also play an important role in the effectiveness of the treatment.
2. Derma stamp – Just as suggested by the device’s name, the derma stamp works just like a stamp to push microneedles into the skin that needs to be treated. This stamping effect encourages the production of collagen and thereby rejuvenates your skin. The action of the derma stamp is very accurate and precise. The derma stamp is a popular alternative to the derma roller device. This microneedling device can also be purchased for home use. There are different lengths of needles to treat different skin problems from the derma stamp, so I recommend that you research well before picking one. You also must follow-up the treatment with moisturizer and sunscreen.
3. Dermapen 4 – A breakthrough technology in microneedling, the Dermapen delivers microneedling in a segmented manner. It helps target the epidermis perfectly for optimal healing with the 12 needles in the device. Additionally, the Dermapen is what dermatologists across the world favor, as this device comes fitted with many safety features too like SafLok™ and SureSpace™ for the perfect skin treatment experience. The latest technology in Dermapen is the Dermapen 4. This device can treat a range of skin problems such as signs of aging, scarring, pigmentation problems, open pores, alopecia, and seborrheic dermatitis, among other conditions. The Dermapen 4 functions with a revolutionary 16-needle cartridge and is the world’s first Bluetooth and digital microneedling device. The Dermapen 4 delivers maximum results with minimal pain and, therefore, it is trusted by millions across the globe. With the best in automated technology, results can be seen in as little as a single session. I personally use the Dermapen 4 for microneedling treatments on my patients.
4. DermaFrac – DermaFrac is a revolutionary device in microneedling. It works by creating tiny punctures in the skin while simultaneously delivering serums to promote skin health. The needles on this device are specially created so that they do not damage the capillaries and therefore, do not cause any bleeding. DermaFrac only targets the epidermis and the papillary layer of the skin. This device is popularly used to treat skin problems such as signs of aging, which include wrinkles, large pores, sun damage, and oily skin complications.
5. Fractional microneedling radiofrequency (MNRF) – Microneedling radiofrequency (MNRF) is a skin treatment technique that is minimally invasive. In this treatment, needles deliver radiofrequency to heat up the dermis. This leads to the healing of the affected areas. MNRF is safe and suited to all skin types. The needles used may be insulated or non-insulated. MNRF skin treatment is done with the application of topical anesthesia. It can treat a number of skin problems including acne, surgical scars, and wrinkles.
   This treatment also works for open pores; all types of acne scars: rolling acne scars, box scars, and ice pick scars. It also shows great results in face rejuvenation and neck rejuvenation. It also helps to give a non-surgical face-lift. The advantage of this technology is that it is safe for any skin color, as there are very less or no chances of skin burns or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. So, it works best for Indian skin. There is very little downtime required as well.
6. Light-emitting microneedling devices – Microneedling is often used in combination with LED phototherapy to treat skin problems such as acne and signs of aging. Different lights are used in combination with medical microneedling for the best results. For example, blue light is best suited to treating acne and red light is best suited for the rejuvenation of skin cells. The light technology can penetrate the skin up to one inch deep and leave you with more youthful radiance after treatment. A face peel may also accompany the treatment.

What are the steps in microneedling treatment?

Now that you have got an overview of the different types of microneedling devices, let me take you through the steps involved in microneedling the skin. 

• The dermatologist will begin by applying a topical anesthetic to the skin that requires treatment
• The dermatologist will create small pricks in your skin surface with the microneedling device
• The device will move evenly across the entire area that is to be treated
• The entire process should take around half an hour
• This will be followed by the application of a serum or a lotion to cool and soothe the skin

Sometimes even PRP, which is platelet-rich plasma produced from your own blood cells, can be applied for better results.

What are the benefits of microneedling?

Microneedling can have many benefits for your skin. To begin with, it increases the production of elastin and collagen for a more youthful skin. Apart from reducing the signs of aging like wrinkles, the microneedling treatment also prevents the formation of new signs of aging. This is because the treatment is usually combined with the application of special serums. Overall, microneedling is like a one-stop solution, as it can treat a range of skin problems including burns, acne scars, stretch marks, and pigmentation. 

Moreover, there is no downtime and the procedure is painless. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) also notes that the microneedling treatment is quite safe even for darker skin tones.  

What should you expect before going to the clinic?

Before heading for a microneedling consultation, you need to keep some things in mind. To begin with, I advise you to make a complete list of any medical conditions you may have. Also, note down any medicines you are currently taking and any allergies you may have. All of this is important information for your dermatologist. 

Do make sure to take an appointment in advance. Your skin may have slight reactions, as it heals post-treatment, so you do not want to plan your microneedling treatment right before a party. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that microneedling can leave the skin with visible redness that may last a few days. 

Finally, do note that results vary between patients, so always have a realistic expectation of what your skin will turn out like. 

Who is not suitable for a microneedling treatment?

I always conduct a detailed skin and health analysis of my patients before recommending a microneedling treatment. As per my advice, this treatment is not suitable for patients who have eczema, open sores, or psoriasis. Additionally, I never recommend microneedling to patients who have had any kind of radiation recently or women who are pregnant. Furthermore, patients with hypertrophic scarring or keloid problems should not opt for this treatment. 

I encourage you to be completely open with your dermatologist so that they can determine if microneedling is suitable for you. In case the microneedling treatment is not suited to your skin, you may be recommended alternatives that can deliver the expected results for you.  

What results can you expect after the treatment?

One of the best things about a microneedling treatment is that there is no downtime; you can get back to your routine almost immediately. Emory University notes that some patients may require a negligible amount of downtime. Once your treatment is done, your skin will be red for a few days. You will also experience increased sensitivity to the sun. 

Most patients see the complete results within a few weeks. Do note that this can vary between patients. Also, microneedling depends on your skin’s healing the time frame can vary between patients.  The dermatologist will prescribe a follow-up session to maintain the results and for any additional treatment. 

Are there any risks associated with microneedling treatment?

Microneedling is a very safe procedure. Ideally, apart from some redness, soreness, and sun sensitivity, you should not experience any other discomfort. However, some patients may experience some extent of peeling, bruising, and bleeding at the spot of treatment. If these become painful or persist for too long, it is advisable that you contact your dermatologist immediately. Never try to treat the side-effects on your own at home. However, with the newer advances in microneedling devices like the MNRF and the Dermapen, the side-effects are negligible.

What are the post-procedure measures you must follow after a treatment session?

Each patient’s expectation and skin problems are unique so the dermatologist will ideally advise on the best course of post-treatment skin care. So, your doctor may give you certain ointments that you need to keep applying on your skin for improved results. I personally always insist on my patients using sunscreen to protect their skin after microneedling. You can get back to wearing make-up after 12 hours,  so that is not a problem. Do ask the doctor when your next session should be and stick to the follow-up routine for the best results. 

What is the difference between a microneedling treatment at a clinic versus using derma rollers at home?

I do get this question a lot. Honestly, the main difference lies in getting your skin treated by a qualified doctor versus doing it yourself at home, which may not yield the best results. 

To begin with, derma rollers for home use barely puncture the skin to induce collagen production. So, you really will not get any results. Whereas, the devices used by a professional dermatologist have needles of varying lengths that are suited to target the different types of skin problems, which need treatment. So, while a derma roller for home use might cost cheaper, it is a waste of money, as you will not get the professional results that you get from a reputed clinic. The most you can hope for from a home derma roller is skin that temporarily appears bright. 

For long-lasting results in holistic skin care and healing, I always urge you to go to a professional dermatologist who is trained in methods of skin evaluation and treatment. 

Closing thoughts

If you have been suffering from skin problems in silence, now is the time to step out and get the right treatment. With so many advancements in technology, I encourage you to not be afraid. The right dermatologist will evaluate your skin for the best diagnosis. Microneedling is one among many modern treatments that can bring out the best in your skin. 

References 

• National Center for Biotechnology Information – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4976400/
• The American Society of Plastic Surgeons – https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/want-to-restore-aging-skin-try-microneedling
• The American Academy of Dermatology – https://www.aad.org/news/microneedling
• Emory University – https://www.healthline.com/health/microneedling#what-to-expect / https://www.emoryhealthcare.org/centers-programs/aesthetic-center/non-surgical-services/micro-needling.html