As the name microneedling implies, this dermatology treatment involves very tiny needles.
When used on the skin, these needles create microscopic holes in your topmost dermal layer. In response, your body produces more elastin and collagen — the two foundational proteins you can thank for smooth, firm, and supple skin.
There are multiple microneedling devices on the market, but Dr. Juan-Carlos Caballero and our team at Warrenton Dermatology & Skin Therapy Center use SkinPen® by Bellus Medical.
As the very first FDA-cleared microneedling device, SkinPen is trusted by dermatologists, estheticians, and other skincare professionals as the best-in-class. On top of that, it’s also made in the United States, so you can rest assured that it has passed rigorous safety testing.
However, there are still three things to consider before scheduling a microneedling session. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
There’s a reason microneedling is so popular — it’s highly effective for numerous skin concerns. But that doesn’t mean it can solve all of them. Skin issues that respond well to microneedling include:
Microneedling can treat skin issues all over the body, and it’s safe for all skin types. Although the fresh collagen and elastin proteins induced by microneedling can help tighten your skin, skin laxity improvement tends to be minimal compared to other noninvasive skin tightening treatments.
SkinPen requires little downtime. However, total healing time and the greatest benefits vary from person to person.
Remember, microneedling rejuvenates your skin by creating tiny traumas that trigger the natural healing process. As a result, many people experience minor redness and swelling for a few days, similar to a mild sunburn. It’s common to notice positive changes in your skin early on; However, healing at a cellular level takes time, so it can take up to six months for the full benefits to appear once you complete your treatment protocol — which is typically three microneedling sessions scheduled approximately four weeks apart.
During this time, we also outline at-home care and a maintenance plan to ensure you achieve and maintain optimum benefits from your treatment.
While microneedling can transform your skin, there are times when it’s not the best option. Generally speaking, we often avoid SkinPen procedures in those with:
Similarly, it’s not recommended for people who are pregnant, nursing, taking medications with isotretinoin, or undergoing certain medical treatments, like chemotherapy.
But don’t worry! Even if you aren’t a good candidate for microneedling, we can offer other options based on your unique skin needs and goals.
Are you considering microneedling? Our experts can determine if it’s a good option for you. Call or click online to schedule a consultation at Warrenton Dermatology & Skin Therapy Center in Warrenton, Virginia, today.
