The world of aesthetic medicine and skincare is advancing rapidly, offering us minimally invasive treatments and techniques to rejuvenate the skin, such as microneedling. This procedure, which is based on creating micro-perforations in the skin, manages to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, two key components in the firmness and elasticity of the skin. But that’s not all. We’ll tell you what microneedling is, how it’s applied, and what its contraindications are in this article on our blog!
What is microneedling?
The microneedling technique is performed using a specialized device that contains small needles or a pen-type tool. These needles penetrate the skin creating microchannels, which trigger the body’s natural healing response.
How does microneedling work?
The perforations in the skin made by microneedling devices are done at a controlled depth; small enough not to damage the epidermis, but deep enough to trigger tissue repair.
With these micro-injuries, collagen and elastin production is activated, while also improving the absorption of topical products applied afterward, increasing their effectiveness. These products are tailored to each person’s needs. In this way, countless benefits can be gained, such as reducing wrinkles, stretch marks, scars, and pigmentation disorders.
How is microneedling applied?
This technique is usually performed in aesthetic clinics by trained professionals. However, there are also microneedling devices for home use, which make the treatment more accessible but require maximum caution from the user.
- Before application, the skin must be cleaned and disinfected to avoid infections.
- Although discomfort is minimal or none, in some cases an anesthetic cream can be applied for total comfort during the treatment.
- The needle device is passed over the skin in different directions, creating micro-perforations.
- To finish the procedure, specific products such as serums with hyaluronic acid or vitamins are usually applied to enhance the treatment results.
When can I have a microneedling treatment?
This procedure is especially aimed at people who want to improve the firmness, tone, and texture of their skin; reduce wrinkles, expression lines, and hyperpigmentation; or reduce acne scars.
To achieve the expected results, it is recommended to have three to five sessions, leaving intervals of 7 to 15 days between them.
On the other hand, although it is a treatment that can be done at different times of the year, it creates micro-injuries that can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. For this reason, it is advisable to do it in autumn or winter, when sun exposure is lower. This helps reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and other sun-related adverse effects.
Also, microneedling is more effective when the skin is not irritated, inflamed, or damaged. Therefore, it is best to avoid it if you have active acne outbreaks, open wounds, or skin infections.
Therefore, the treatment can be done at any time of the year with the proper precautions, although autumn and winter are usually the most favorable seasons. The most important thing is that the skin is in good condition and that the treatment is planned at a time when it is possible to follow all the post-treatment recommendations to properly protect and care for the skin.
What are the contraindications of microneedling treatment?
Microneedling is a versatile and effective treatment that offers numerous benefits for the skin, from rejuvenation and wrinkle reduction to improving scars and spots. However, like any aesthetic procedure, it has certain contraindications that are important to know.
This technique is not recommended in the following cases:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Herpes or open wounds
- Active acne outbreaks
- Recent aesthetic procedures
- Recent or immediately following sun exposure
- Allergy to any infiltrated substance
- Chronic skin disease
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Use of anticoagulant medications
In case of doubt, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or trained aesthetic professional before application. Your skin deserves only the best!