All You Need To Know About Microneedling

What's that fancy new word buzzing around town and in the news, "Microneedling" and what does it do? A minimally invasive cosmetic procedure, Microneedling quickly became the top new treatment of 2015, sought after by socialites and A-list celebrities due to the amazing ability to effectively treat an impressive array of skin issues such as acne scars, surgical scars, wrinkles, stretch marks and even hair restoration for those who suffer from Alopecia (male pattern baldness) ...but how? In the most natural way possible (and we'll get to that in just a moment).

Microneedling is performed by a trained medical aesthetician or medical professional who uses a microneedling pen also known as a 'dermapen' along the target area. This hand-held device looks like an electronic pen with a disposable plastic attachment piece consisting of 12 or more sterile, tiny needles which rapidly vibrate as they are passed along the skin creating several micro-injuries or tiny "channels" into the skin. As these micro-injuries are created, blood and plasma rush to the surface beginning the skin's healing process where new cells form. This procedure is not only effective, it is safe and there are no side effects since you are using your body's own natural ability to heal; pretty powerful stuff.

The length of the procedure is typically thirty (30) minutes to an hour, including the patient's prep-time of twenty (20) minutes allowing the topical numbing cream to take effect. Numbing the area first makes this procedure much more comfortable. The treated area may appear red for up to three (3) days and drying or flaking is to be expected. During the healing process it is important to keep skin hydrated using Aloe Vera Gel or a good moisturizer followed by a sun screen with at least an SPF 30 and direct sun exposure should be avoided. Scrubbing or exfoliating the area should also be avoided during the healing process. The full effect is seen within about four (4) weeks and the procedure can be repeated in eight (8) weeks.

There are two methods that are typically used for the Microneedling procedure in our practice; Microneedling can be done with or without the use of PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma).

Method One - With PRP: the patient has their blood drawn and spun twice in a centrifuge which allows the Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) to physically separate from the blood and is 'yellow' in appearance. The process to separate the PRP in the centrifuge takes about 10 minutes. The PRP is then either injected into the target areas prior to the microneedling procedure, or is commonly applied directly onto the skin during the microneedling procedure. Why use PRP? The PRP is the body's natural growth factor which promotes healing.

Method Two - Without PRP: Instead, an elasticity boosting serum such as Hyaluronic Acid may be applied to the skin to allow the microneedling pen to glide efficiently along the area while aiding with moisture. At the end of the treatment, your technician may apply sun screen to protect the skin.

In the video below, our own Dr. Joan Baijnath takes you through the procedure and process on Microneedling with PRP. If you have a question or would like to learn more about Microneedling, please call us at (561) 255-0272.