Since its inception in 1995, microneedling has become increasingly popular with those who seek to improve skin imperfections, mainly on the face, but also on other areas of the body. The minimally invasive treatment can be used to improve various cosmetic flaws such as:

  • Fine lines
  • Wrinkles
  • Acne scars and those from other causes
  • Age spots
  • Stretch marks
  • Enlarged pores
  • Reduced skin elasticity
  • Uneven skin tone
What Is Microneedling?

The procedure uses multiple tiny needles that create microscopic punctures in the skin. This action stimulates the natural production of collagen, the protein that provides the structure from which all the connective tissues of the body are made. A relatively newer concept combines this technique with radiofrequency, so stimulating collagen production in deeper levels of the skin, providing profoundly more effective, long-term results. The process is non-surgical and is considered an aesthetic cosmetic procedure.

How Does It Work?

Using a device that contains multiple micro-sized needles, the therapist glides this across the skin causing minor superficial punctures to the skin. This slight injury stimulates the body to produce new tissue that’s rich in collagen, has a more even texture, and is firmer and more elastic in tone.

Does It Hurt?

The microscopic size of the needles means that it feels like small pinpricks rather than an injury to the skin. When carried out by a professional therapist, a topical anesthetic will be applied post-procedure. As such, it should cause minimal or zero discomfort.

Is It Safe?

Thanks to being minimally invasive, microneedling is safe for most people in good health. However, it shouldn’t be carried out on pregnant women or anyone who takes certain kinds of acne medication. Other conditions that might make it an unsuitable procedure include:

  • A history of skin scars
  • Any open wounds
  • Recent radiation therapy
  • Skin diseases, such as psoriasis or eczema

If unsure, you should always check with your healthcare provider before undergoing treatment. After the procedure, there might be minimal redness and/or skin irritation. You’ll also be more susceptible to UV rays so it’s essential to use high protection sunscreen.

How effective is it?

Done professionally, microneedling can produce fairly instant results, with plump, luminous skin being the most noticeable results. However, these tend to be short-lived unless combined with the above-mentioned radiofrequency. When the two treatments are carried out simultaneously then long term effects, especially in the treatment of scar and wrinkle reduction and overall skin quality, are far more likely.

Is It Expensive?

Compared to other types of cosmetic surgery microneedling is far less expensive. Sessions cost in the region of hundreds of dollars (as opposed to thousands or tens of thousands), although the number of sessions necessary for the required results depends on the individual.

While there are DIY options, known as home rollers, these don’t have the same effect as professional treatments. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the best that can be achieved this way is a temporary brightening of the skin.

There are also many more risks associated with such home procedures. Fort Lauderdale-based, Palmer Cosmetic Surgery, provides the ultimate in microneedling with radiofrequency therapy, working with their patients to provide a bespoke treatment to suit individual issues and skin types.

For anyone considering such a procedure, it can’t be stressed enough how important it is to consult a professional, both to ensure the results are as you expect and to prevent any damage to the skin.