Microneedling

Microneedling

Description
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedure that helps minimize the signs of aging, rejuvenate aging skin, improve the appearance of acne scars and other skin conditions.

Microneedling involves using a medical instrument which utilizes tiny needles at the tip. The needle length is adjusted by the doctor depending on your skin type and treatment goals. Microneedling creates micro-punctures in your skin. In this way, a 'controlled injury' is performed. In response, your body's own natural healing cascade is initiated. Healing cells and natural healing factors such as cytokines and growth factors are transported to the treated area promoting the creation of new collagen. Loss of the skin's structural proteins collagen and elastin are major factors in the diminished appearance of aging skin. Induction and restoration of collagen and elastin can volumize the skin and improve texture and refresh the skin's appearance.

The Aging Process
As we age, the skin undergoes multiple changes concurrently. Certain skin care practices and procedures can delay, minimize or reverse the appearance of many of them. Some of the changes are unique to or exacerbated by sun exposure (photoaging). The outer skin layer (epidermis) thins. The skin appears thinner, more pale, and translucent. Large pigmented spots (called age spots, liver spots, or lentigos) may appear in sun-exposed areas. Changes in the connective tissue reduce the skin's strength and elasticity in a process called elastosis which is especially pronounced in sun-exposed areas (solar elastosis). Elastosis produces the leathery, weather-beaten appearance common to those who spend large amounts of time outdoors. The blood vessels of the dermis become more fragile, which in turn leads to bruising, bleeding under the skin, cherry angiomas, and similar conditions. Sebaceous glands produce less oil making it harder to keep the skin moist, and resulting in dryness and itchiness. There is thinning of the subcutaneous fat layer.

Evidence for the Effectiveness of Microneedling
Several studies have confirmed the effectiveness of Microneedling for skin rejuvenation.

A 2015 study in the International Journal of Dermatology confirms that microneedling is a new way to achieve "skin rejuvenation, tightening, and scar remodeling," and that it offers a "simple and effective treatment for photo aged skin" with minimal side effects and downtime.

Additional Benefits
A surprising fact is that less than 10% of topical creams and serums actually penetrate the skin. One of microneedling's additional appeals is that it improves product absorption tremendously. Studies confirm that the treatment can substantially improve the ability of topical medications to penetrate the skin. The tiny holes created by the Microneedling procedures act like channels which facilitate the transport of topical medications through the outer skin surface, which is otherwise difficult to penetrate.

Complimentary Topical Therapies
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), Vitamins, nutrients, serums

Microneedling's ability to facilitate skin absorption of topical treatments is valuable for the introduction of potent topicals and treatments which are otherwise of much more limited value.

During the early post-treatment period, the improved skin absorption is at it's greatest. At this time, serums containing valuable skin nutrients and supplements are applied to the treatment site. Such nutrients include Vitamin C, Vitamin E, retinoids, ferulic acid and others.

One of the most exciting and potentially powerful applications of this improved skin absorption is the use of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) in association with Microneedling.

PRP treatment uses your own blood plasma that has been enriched with platelets. As a concentrated source of your own platelets, PRP contains several different growth factors and other cytokines that can stimulate healing and promote rejuvenation.

Comparison to Laser Treatments
For the treatment of acne scars, a head-to-head comparison published in the journal Dermatologic Surgery in 2016, found both treatments (fractional laser treatment and Microneedling) to be comparable and effective, and further cited Microneedling for being better tolerated, with fewer side effects and less downtime.

Cosmetic Microneedling vs Medical Microneedling
What is the Difference ?

Medical Microneedling should not be confused with cosmetic microneedling or cosmetic dermarolling, which utilizes needles that are shorter in length and are generally performed by non-medical personnel. Several states, including California, do not allow non-medical personnel to use any needling device which penetrates the skin.

Medical microneedling is generally more aggressive and utilizes longer needles. In less skilled hands, the longer needles utilized for Medical Microneedling may cause pain or complications. When performed by a physician, the treatment is safe, pain free, effective and incurs minimal recovery time.