Microneedling
Microneedling is a skincare treatment where we use a Dermapen to create deliberate wounds on the skin with tiny needles to stimulate the collagen production. Through monthly treatments, Microneedling can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and scarring, while also firming and brightening the complexion.
How does it work?
Microneedling relies on the principle that growth factors are released once the needle pierces the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the epidermis) .These growth factors are believed to be responsible for the treatment of various skin conditions. At a microscopic level, proliferated skin cells, such as fibroblasts, migrate to the point of injury and transform into collagen fibres, resulting in increased fibre strength and elasticity. This treatment improves your skin by increasing the production of collagen, facilitating natural repair and growth, and making the skin stronger and thicker. The new collagen fills depressed scars and wrinkles from the bottom up, lifting the depression so they are level with the surrounding skin. This process takes two to three months to produce visible results, and can also help thicken thinner, fine skin types.
Microneedling leads to three major phases of natural wound healing which results in enhanced stimulation of new healthy skin:
Phase 1 (days 1–3) Inflammation: Activated by piercing the dermal tissue, platelets release cytokines and growth factors which act as signals for the body’s immune system. White blood cells (neutrophils and macrophages) are sent in to disinfect the wounds, clear the debris, increase the blood supply, and begin the creation of fresh, new skin.
Phase 2 (days 3–5) Proliferation: In this phase, the fibroblasts, keratinocytes and epidermal cells continue to divide to populate the areas of damage and secrete growth factors and extracellular matrices, such as elastin and collagen will be laid down and deposited with new tissue formation.
Phase 3 (days 6–30) Remodeling: During this phase, collagen and elastin producing fibroblasts proliferate in the puncture wounds formed by the microneedles and migrate. The collagen in the newly formed tissue is now replaced with even stronger collagen and the dermis contracts to create a youthful firm, but supple texture to the skin.
WHAT ARE THE MOST EFFECTIVE USES OF MICRONEEDLING?
Microneedling can be used to treat and improve the following skin conditions.
ACNE SCARS
A significant proportion of acne sufferers will have some form of scarring to show for it. Medical studies suggest that between 30% and 95% of clients with acne develop some form of scarring. Importantly, seeking early treatment for acne helps to reduce the risk and severity of acne scarring.
Microneedling mechanically breakdowns existing scarring and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, vital components of healthy skin. This has the effect of smoothing out the skin due to the reduction of the size and depth of acne scars. Clients usually have an immediate glow to the skin, but the visible changes develop over a course of several days and weeks. Results can continue to improve for up to 6 months after the treatment as collagen production continues. Not all acne scars are well suited to treated by microneedling. In particular, microneedling is not well suited to treat keloid scars as there is mixed evidence of its effectiveness. Keloid scars are formed when scar tissue forms on the skin in excess, because of excess collagen production. Clients with keloids scars should consider alternative treatments such as the use of steroids.
ROSACEA
Rosacea is most commonly seen after age 30 and may initially resemble a simple sunburn or a mysterious redness. Early treatment is key. Rosacea cannot be cured but it can be controlled. Microneedling can help control rosacea by stimulating the epidermal growth factor which increases the density of the epidermis. This lessens the appearance of vessels beneath the skin and the overall redness.
It strengths collagen in both vessel walls and connective tissue that supports the vessels. It also increases the availability of cell nutrients and antioxidants.
WRINKLES
Ageing skin droops and develops wrinkles, lines, and furrows. The severity of these changes in an individual depends on the genetic tendency, skin type and exposure to environmental factors. Wrinkles occur when the skin loses suppleness and tightness as it ages. It is seen more commonly in areas of skin which are stretched regularly such as around the eyes (crow’s feet), forehead and mouth. By renewing the production of collagen, the skin becomes plumped out, thicker and retains its elasticity.
STRETCH MARKS
Stretch marks are caused by prolonged skin distension due to pregnancy and weight gain. It can also be caused by prolonged use of oral and topical corticosteroids which hinder the formation of collagen and elastin fibers. There is no effective treatment to correct stretch marks as the epidermis in stretch marks is weakened and the support structure beneath it is compromised. Microneedling will improve the density of the epidermis by stimulating the epidermal growth factor, but it is important not to overpromise results.
