Microneedling 101

Microneedling is a hot topic in beauty. Trendsetters have listed as the next “big thing”. But there always seems to be a next “big thing”, so why should you pay attention to microneedling? Short answer; because it works.

Read on for a crash course in microneedling.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy) uses fine needles to create hundreds of tiny, invisible puncture wounds on the top layer of skin.

These puncture wounds do not go deep enough into the skin to create bleeding, but, these micro-injuries stimulate the body's natural wound healing processes. The body sends fibroblasts to the affected area and this helps increase cell turnover and collagen and elastin production. Skin appears thicker, more plump, and scarring and dark spots are reduced.

What is a Dermaroller?

A dermaroller is a handheld device that microneedles the skin. In addition to creating the painless micro injuries that help stimulate collagen and elastin, it also creates “micro channels” that allow topical products to be absorbed easier (and deeper) into the skin.

Does it hurt?

It shouldn’t! When using at-home dermarollers, at most, you’ll feel slight tingling with a little redness afterwards. This redness usually disappears after 20-30 minutes. If you’re having this procedure at a dermatologist’s office, they should apply a numbing agent to the face prior.

What’s the difference between at-home and in-office microneedling?

An at-home dermaroller will have needles no more than 1mm in length. This is deep enough to treat fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and scarring. With needles no more than 1mm, there is no need for a numbing agent on the face and you’ll still see results.

In-office procedures use needles that are typically 1mm to 2.5mm. If you wish to treat deeper scars or cellulite, this is the best option.

Why do it?

Microneedling helps stimulate collagen and elastin, and cell turnover. Therefore, it’ll treat various concerns including fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, scarring, and enlarged pores. Here are the top 5 reasons microneedling is a game changer.

How do I microneedle at home?

1. Cleanse the skin
2. Disinfect your dermaroller with an alcohol with 60-80% concentration
3. Roll dermaroller over forehead, cheeks, and chin. Roll the derma roller back and forth 4-5 times in each direction horizontally, vertically and diagonally over the treatment areas. Maintain the same speed and pressure to create more micro vessels. Use for at least 1 minute to properly stimulate the skin.
4. Apply your favorite serum
5. Apply moisturizer and SPF (for daytime)

Are there risks?

While microneedling helps with acne scarring, it should NEVER be used on active blemishes. The micro-tears can spread bacteria around the face, making breakouts worse.

If the skin is inflamed, irritated, experiencing eczema or rosacea, microneedling is not recommended.

A couple of common sense tips:

• Never share a dermaroller with another user and always disinfect it with alcohol before and after use
• Dermarollers can become dull and damaged with use. Replace your dermaroller every couple of months to ensure maximum benefits

If you have further questions, please leave us a comment and we’ll get back to you!