Even as some people return to physical workplaces after a year of working and socializing remotely, it appears that Zoom meetings will remain part of our lives for the foreseeable future. That means we’ll still be getting up-close-and-personal views of our faces, noticing even the smallest imperfections. That’s one reason plastic surgery practices across the U.S. noticed an uptick in patients wanting facial rejuvenation treatments such as microneedling.
Our Gilbert, AZ, practice was no different, with patients requesting both cosmetic surgery and nonsurgical, medspa-type procedures. Microneedling remains as popular as ever, with the RealSelf website identifying the versatile procedure as one of the top 5 trending treatments for 2021.
Microneedling’s effectiveness as a skin rejuvenation treatment is no secret to celebrities who have made it one of the most popular procedures for several years. It produces remarkable results without the downtime associated with more invasive procedures.
How Is Microneedling Performed?
The hand-held Eclipse MicroPen™ device we use at our practice includes 12 microneedles on its tip to puncture the skin’s outer layer at a uniform depth. The tiny wounds created by the needles stimulate the growth of collagen and elastin, essential for smooth, toned skin. These micro-injuries also serve to help the skin absorb topical gels, creams, and serums more efficiently.
A microneedling treatment begins with the provider applying a topical anesthetic to the treatment area so you remain comfortable during the procedure. The anesthetic takes about 20 minutes to numb the area. The specialist performing the treatment then glides the MicroPen across the skin back and forth, with the procedure taking about 15 to 30 minutes.
Can You Benefit From Microneedling?
The Eclipse MicroPen can be adjusted to penetrate the skin at various depths, enabling it to treat a range of skin conditions effectively. These include:
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Sagging, thin skin
- Scars from acne, chickenpox, burns, and surgery
- Stretch marks
- Cellulite
- Photodamage, hyperpigmentation
- Dilated pores
Besides addressing these specific concerns, microneedling enhances the skin’s overall texture. You might also want to ask about our Renuvion® skin tightening treatment (formerly called J-Plasma®) as an alternative to microneedling for firmer and tighter skin.
What Can You Expect After Microneedling?
One of the benefits of microneedling is that it requires virtually no downtime. You’ll probably notice some redness and may want to avoid socializing immediately after the procedure if that would make you self-conscious. Healing time depends partly on the treatment’s depth. Some patients are fully healed 24 hours after their appointments, while others still notice some scabbing 2 days later.
As for results, the skin will look brighter and refreshed immediately, but the growth of new collagen and elastin develops gradually. You may notice changes for up to 6 months.
What About DIY Microneedling?
Dermarollers available to use at home are often compared to microneedling. These devices also have tiny needles that prick the skin’s surface when they’re rolled across the cheeks or forehead, for example. Dermarollers, though, don’t penetrate as deeply as microneedling, so they do little to stimulate collagen growth. They also pose a risk of infection if they’re used in a non-sterile environment.
You can learn more about skin treatments such as microneedling at our plastic surgery and med spa practice in Gilbert by contacting us using the online form to request a consultation. Or give us a call at (480) 466-7355 to schedule an appointment.
Leave a Reply