Rejuvenation

What to expect during a Microneedling procedure?

A regular microneedling procedure usually takes about 75-90 minutes. A numbing cream will be applied to help you stay comfortable throughout the treatment. The microneedling tool is a pen with tiny sterilized disposable needles that gently and evenly puncture the skin to stimulate collagen induction. The pinpricks are so small that you likely won’t notice them after the procedure. The microneedling process itself takes approximately 45 minutes, though the time will vary depending on the area being treated. While the appearance of these prickles will be nearly invisible to you after your treatment, the effect they have on your skin will amaze you.

After the procedure, a soothing mask will be applied to help reducing the redness. Although most patients are great candidates for microneedling, there are a select few who are not. Any of the following disorders are contraindications :

• Eczema

• Rosacea

• Psoriasis

• Solar Keratosis

• Raised moles or Skin Tags

• Warts or Herpes

• Active Acne

• Open lesions

• Keloids

Any of the above disorders are contraindications and can actually worsen a patient’s condition.

Discomfort & risks

The sensation of Micro Needling is uncomfortable (described as a stinging sensation), particularly in areas of bony prominence and where the skin is thinner such as the neck and around the eyes. Immediately following the procedure the skin will feel tight, dry, swollen, and sensitive to the touch. It’ll also look and feel sunburned. The sensitivity and redness will diminish significantly within 24 hours. Other common short-term side effects include itching, discomfort, pinpoint bleeding or bruising, scabbing, and darkening of the treated area. Additionally, the skin may look and feel like sandpaper; these effects generally last 2-7 days as the treated skin flakes off and is replaced by new tissue. While adverse reactions are extremely rare, there is a possibility of temporary side effects including but not limited to: infection, scarring, skin and tissue necrosis, herpes simplex outbreak, hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin), and hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin). Darkening or lightening of the skin usually fades within 6 months, but in rare cases, could be permanent. This reaction is more common in patients who are tan or who have darker skin tones. It can result or worsen when treated areas are exposed to the sun too soon following treatment. This risk can be minimized by avoiding sun exposure for 4 weeks before and after treatment and by adhering to pre and post-treatment instructions.

Pre-treatment instructions

• You will be asked to discontinue use of Retin A, Retinols, Vitamin A creams and other topic medications for 5-7 days before your microneedling treatment. It is required that you wear a sunscreen daily and use the appropriate home care topical products.

• Brightening serum or Retinol Pads are recommended specially for Fitzatrick III, IV, V & VI.

Post-treatment instructions

• No sunscreen OR makeup for 6-8 hours following treatment.

• Wash the face 6-8 hours after treatment or before bed time. Use gentle cleanser.

• Gently massage the face with lukewarm water to remove all serum and dried blood.

• 24 to 72 hours post-treatment — mineral makeup can be applied after a physical sunblock with an SPF 30 or higher is applied.

• 48 to 72 hours post-treatment — client can return to their regular skin care regimen.

• No exercising, swimming or strenuous activity for the first 24 hours post-treatment.

• Sweating and gym environments are harmful, rife with bacteria, and may cause adverse reactions.

• For 7 days post-treatment: do NOT use any Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acid, Retinol (Vitamin A), Vitamin C (in a low pH formula) or anything perceived as ‘active’ skincare.

• Avoid alcohol-based toners as well as excessive sun exposure and tanning for 10 to 14 days.