The vast variety of aesthetic and plastic procedures include several minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedures that help improve skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars. Among them, microneedling has become one of the top choices when it comes to renewing collagen and other essential compounds of the skin and helping rejuvenate the facial skin over time.

The procedure involves puncturing the skin with multiple tiny needles in order to induce tiny areas on injury and healing, inducing the local fibroblasts to make more collagen, elastin and Glycosaminoglycans. This makes the procedure highly effective. Add to that, the ability to infiltrate active serums (growth factors, anti-oxidants) into the skin, to additionally nourish the tissue. Dr Rozina Ali, one of the most popular female plastic surgeon in UK, highly advocates microneedling treatment. In this article, Dr Ali has provided us with meaningful information to help you fully understand this multi-purpose, minimally-invasive treatment.

What is microneedling?

The practice of microneedling dates back to the early years of the XX century but has gained significant traction in recent years, thanks to the new technology and social media platforms.

Simply put, microneedling treatment refers to the insertion of very fine, sterilized needles and its purpose is to increase the production of collagen and other healing factors by causing minor sterile trauma to the skin. The needles are so tiny that the area is grazed but quickly heals, but the skin responds to these injuries by producing new tissues that will rejuvenate the skin. The rapid action electric, micro-skin needling is carried out under topical anaesthetic and is designed to stimulate skin cells deep in the dermis. Thus, the skin cells regenerate and repair the overlying skin, resulting in smoother, brighter, tighter, smoother healthier-looking skin.

Non-surgical facial treatment rejuvenating procedure aesthetic clinic London

The procedure lasts for 20 minutes, and unlike other skin rejuvenation and repair methods, microneedling is a treatment that allows patients to go back to their day as soon as the session is over with fewer side effects and downtime. The grazing can be disguised with moisturising SPF and mineral concealer. Each treatment is separated by four to six weeks, A course of 5-6 treatments but varies, depending on your skin condition and desired results.

Tip: After every session, plan to keep your skin clean and if it’s possible to go straight home, then do it. Keep in mind that your face is filled with minor wounds that might get irritated if touched.

Benefits of microneedling

The main benefit is increased collagen production. Any intervention that encourages increased collagen synthesis can combat fine lines, wrinkles, loose skin and acne scarring or enlarged pores. It is well understood that collagen levels naturally decline with age and in an accelerated fashion after menopause. The results take several months to become evident. Most people see results after 3-4 sessions.

After the sessions, there is some redness and grazing of the skin and the recovery period commonly lasts approx 72 hours (3 days) You may also have a feeling of tightness, dryness or sensitivity on your skin in the days immediately following the treatment. Because the efficacy of microneedling comes from the skin healing itself, this is absolutely normal.

Side effects of microneedling

After the sessions, some redness or mild irritation can appear in the first few days of the recovering period. You may also have a feeling of tightness, dryness or sensitivity on your skin in the days immediately following the treatment.

Microneedling is a safe and effective treatment for many patients, however, it is not right for every person seeking anti-ageing results. Adults that are struggling with early signs of ageing, and would like to see subtle but significant results from a minimally-invasive procedure are good candidates for microneedling. Their health must be good overall. Current and recent Accutane users, people who have had skin radiation within the past year, those with active skin disease, are not recommended to have micro-needling procedures.

Also, while it is true that microneedling devices and derma rollers are available for purchasing online, it doesn’t mean that you should buy these items to try them on your face at home. Medical microneedling is a professional procedure that should be performed by an expert and experienced plastic surgeon. Dermal rollers do not always penetrate deep enough to induce any fibroblast response, drag the skin causing visible scarring and raise the risk of infection due to the unsterile condition they are stored in.

As people desire smoother, younger, and tighter skin as they grow older, treatments such as microneedling are becoming more popular. Given its expedient post-treatment recovery, limited side effect profile, and significant clinical results, microneedling is a valuable alternative to more invasive procedures such as laser skin resurfacing and deep chemical peeling. If you are considering undergoing a microneedling procedure, book a consultation with a surgeon who is specially trained and experienced in such procedures.

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