Microneedling: it seems like everyone’s talking about it. As with any popular skin treatment, it can be overwhelming to sort through the plethora of information out there and separate fact from fiction.
So, what exactly is microneedling, how does it work, and is it right for you? Our team at Legacy Plastic Surgery is here with the information you need to achieve the best skin of your life.
How Microneedling Works: Understanding the Basics
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses very small, sterilized needles to repeatedly prick the skin, creating tiny micro-wounds that trigger our body’s natural healing process. This mechanism stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin, the molecules responsible for our skin’s strength and elasticity. This increase in collagen and elastin leads to skin that not only looks better but is healthier on a cellular level.
Since microneedling creates tiny holes in the skin, it can also be performed before the application of topical treatments. This allows the active ingredients to penetrate deeper than they would otherwise be able to go.
Microneedling is often paired with RF (radiofrequency) energy to produce a more pronounced effect, like with our Morpheus8 platform. The heat from the RF component adds more impact than the needle penetration alone.
The Benefits of Microneedling
Because microneedling harnesses your body’s innate ability to heal, it has many benefits. Microneedling can be used to improve the overall tone, texture, and brightness of skin, as well as address specific concerns such as acne, scars, or signs of aging.
Acne
Microneedling for acne can speed up the healing process to reduce the inflammation and hyperpigmentation lingering after a breakout. We can also harness the skin remodeling properties of this treatment to reduce the depth of icepick scars and the appearance of large pores.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Fine lines and wrinkles often form due to a lack of collagen and elastin in the skin. Consistent microneedling, by stimulating the production of these components, can tighten and fortify your skin’s structure.
Sun Damage
Using microneedling coupled with RF energy, we can target sun damage by encouraging deep healing. A comprehensive treatment like Morpheus8 can reduce the effects of discoloration from both sun damage and age spots.
Stretch Marks
Microneedling for stretch marks may be a little less well-known, but it is by no means less effective. We can use this treatment anywhere on the body to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and smooth uneven texture.
Your Microneedling Options at Legacy Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics
Our team at Legacy Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics in Exton, PA, has two of the most state-of-the-art RF microneedling platforms.
Morpheus8 by Inmode
Morpheus8 is an FDA-cleared device that combines the penetration of microneedling with the heat of RF to target deep skin tissue. It can be particularly effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and jowls, smoothing the under-eye area, and overall tightening the skin. It can also be used on stretch marks along the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks area.
Virtue by Cartessa
Virtue by Cartessa is a customizable RF microneedling device that allows our providers to tailor every treatment to your needs. This treatment has different attachments to provide high precision to the target area.
What to Expect During a Microneedling Session
Because we’re creating tiny holes in the skin, we use a topical numbing agent to make the process more comfortable. Once numb, you shouldn’t feel sharp pain, but you might feel a dull vibrating sensation. More potent numbing agents may be used as determined by you and your provider.
Once numb, the procedure takes anywhere from 10-30 minutes, depending on the location. You’ll likely come out of the session looking pink and flushed, and may experience some localized pin-point bleeding. This is actually a good thing — it’s your body initiating that wound-healing cascade that triggers collagen and elastin production.
Make sure you inform your provider ahead of time if you are prone to cold sores or have any active infections or rashes to avoid exacerbating these conditions.
The healing process may vary depending on the type of treatment that was done, how aggressive it was, and your unique ability to heal from the micro-injuries. When it comes to post-treatment care, your skin will be extra sensitive for one to two days. Be gentle, don’t use harsh products or physical force, and take extra precaution from the sun. You may also need to limit makeup application while your skin heals.
Your provider will give you detailed after-care instructions, so make sure to follow them carefully.
Are Microneedling Results Permanent?
Good things take time, and this is also the case with microneedling. Though after just one treatment, you may notice more glowy and even-toned skin due to all that new collagen and elastin, more than one treatment is needed for optimal results. It is generally recommended to have three to six treatments spaced four to six weeks apart, though this may vary depending on your individual skin concerns.
Get in Touch: Start Your Microneedling Journey in Exton, PA, Today
Legacy Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics offers the latest cosmetic technology, as well as the experience and expertise to help you enhance your natural radiance. From the moment you enter our office to every subsequent visit, you will be treated with kindness, integrity and attention to detail.
To arrange your complimentary consultation, please request an appointment online or call our office at 610-756-1789. We welcome patients throughout Pennsylvania, including Exton and the Main Line, Chester County and surrounding areas.
