As you grow older, your skin will start showing signs of aging. While it is easy to accept changes in personality, it is hard to come to terms with physical changes. This is why, nowadays, there are various skincare treatments that can help you keep your skin from aging.
One such treatment is microneedling. Microneedling treats wrinkles, purple stretch marks, fine lines, acne scars, and brown spots. If you’re looking to learn more about microneedling, you’ve come to the right place. Read more to know everything about microneedling and whether it’s the right choice for you.
If your skin has changed drastically over the few years, this blog is for you. Whether it is pigmentation, wrinkles, fine lines, acne or even dark spots, microneedling is the solution to all your problems. Microneedling is a process that occurs over 4 to 6 months and takes 3 to 6 sessions to complete. Each session lasts about 30 to 60 minutes – depending on your skin type. After each session, your skin will feel rejuvenated and fresh.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is the process that uses needles to puncture your skin. Microneedling increases collagen production in your body. It also improves the absorption of other skincare products.
If your skin is healthy, microneedling is a good choice for you. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to skin infections, microneedling may not be the best option for you.
PRP Microneedling A.K.A the Vampire Facelift
Microneedling uses a device or a roller which have needles attached to it. These needles prick the skin, which then rejuvenates it. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) microneedling is a little different. It is an injection, which can be added to your therapy to help reduce swelling and redness that may take place after microneedling.
PRP microneedling is more effective than traditional microneedling. That makes it a better choice for people with acne scars. PRP microneedling will take around 3 to 6 sessions, and each session will be a month apart.
Check out our complete guide on the vampire facial.
RF Microneedling
Radio frequency (RF) microneedling uses radio frequency energy to rejuvenate your skin. Unlike traditional microneedling, RF microneedling delivers energy to the skin. This helps tighten your skin and reduce acne scars and wrinkles. Since radio frequency microneedling gives heat to the skin cells, it also produces collagen and gives quicker results.
How Much Does Microneedling Cost?
In most places, microneedling can cost from $300 to $700 for each session. The cost may vary depending on how many sessions you are planning to take. It is always a good idea to have a budget in mind beforehand so that you don’t have to stop treatment. If you’re going for PRP microneedling, it will cost you more.
With microneedling, it is important to keep in mind that you will not see instant results. You will start seeing changes in your skin after a few sessions and will only see complete results when the treatment stops.
If you have healthy skin, you will most probably need 3 to 6 sessions. Microneedling may not be cheap but it is worth it. It is not only safer but also more effective than several skin surgeries.
What Are the Benefits of Microneedling?
Microneedling is one of the most effective ways to keep your skin from aging. Besides preventing your skin from fine lines, crow’s feet and wrinkles, microneedling can also help produce collagen. Microneedling can also help rejuvenate your skin, which will make it glow and make you look fresh.
Microneedling can make your skin smoother by enhancing the texture and reduce brown spots and acne scars. Through microneedling, you can also fix pigmentation if you suffer from an uneven skin tone.
What Are the Risks of Microneedling?
Even though microneedling is proven to be a safe process, it still comes with some risks and side effects. After a microneedling session, it is normal for your skin to feel swollen or even bruised.
Your skin will be red, and you may feel discomfort after the procedure. In some cases, your skin even may feel dry and flaky.
Right after microneedling, it is advised to not expose your skin to the sun. If you have to leave the house, make sure to use sunscreen or your skin might break out.
With PRP microneedling, there is very little chance of infection since it is your own blood. Your face may not experience redness or swelling either.
If you have sensitive skin, your skin may start bleeding. If that is the case, make sure to contact your doctor since microneedling does not cause your skin to bleed, but if the treatment was too deep, it may happen.
Besides redness and swelling, your skin may suffer from some serious side effects, too. These are not very common, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
If you have sensitive skin, you may suffer from a skin infection or experience changes in skin pigmentation. If you have acne, scarring or a skin infection, microneedling may not be for you. It is best to contact a professional before making any major decisions.
Microneedling doesn’t have any major risks. It is also cheaper than various laser treatments and gives quicker results. The recovery period is also pretty short.
Is Microneedling Safe?
Like every other procedure, microneedling is not a 100 percent risk-free. The good thing about microneedling is that it does not have any permanent side effects.
One of the most common side effects right after a session is an irritation. Your skin may feel dry and irritated, but it is important to follow the rules and not touch your face.
If your skin starts peeling, call your doctor immediately. Microneedling might not be for you if you are pregnant and suffer from skin diseases like eczema.
How to Prepare for Microneedling?
Before your session, it is best to contact your doctor. A good idea is to avoid the sun as much as you can. Do not get tanned for a few weeks before your session. And obviously, if you are you are going to get sun exposure, it is a good idea to wear sunscreen.
Another tip to prepare yourself for your microneedling session is to drink water before the big day. On the day of the appointment, don’t wear makeup and go to the session with a completely bare face.
Moisturizer is not allowed either. Before the session, tell your doctor if you are on any medication. If you are on medication for acne, you may have to stop taking it for a while.
Microneedling Aftercare
Microneedling is not a long or invasive procedure, which means that the recovery period is not very long. Even if you feel skin irritation or your skin is swollen or red, it will go away in just a few days. You can go back to your daily life in a couple of days if you feel comfortable. If you think the needle punctures are too obvious, you can wear makeup to cover it.
For the first few days, your skin will be a little sensitive, so make sure to apply sunscreen if you will be exposed to the sun for long periods of time. After your session, your skin will start generating new tissue, so you will get to see results in a few weeks.
If you believe microneedling is working for you, it is best to arrange more sessions with your doctor. The number of sessions arranged will depend on your skin type and condition. After the session, your doctor will put a balm or serum on your face which can help with skin irritation, swelling, and redness. Most people can drive home after a session, but if you are not comfortable, you can ask someone else to give you a ride.
Unlike traditional microneedling, RF and PRP microneedling will have fewer side effects. Your skin may feel irritated, but there will be minimal swelling and redness. A typical microneedling session is usually an hour long. If you do not have any serious side effects, you can go back to work or school the next day.
You can apply makeup after your treatment, but make sure not to apply too much makeup. It is a good idea to moisturize your face so your skin does not look dry or break out. Make sure your makeup products are alcohol-free and stay away from activities that will make you sweat. Sweating will prolong your recovery period since it will increase irritation and bruising.
Conclusion
Microneedling is a safe way to treat your skin and reduce the signs of aging. If you want younger-looking and glowing skin in no time, then this treatment is for you. You start seeing the results after a few sessions only!
FAQ’s
How long does it take to see results from microneedling?
In some cases, the results may show in just a couple of weeks, but in most cases, the results will be visible in 5 to 6 weeks.
How often should I get Microneedling?
Each microneedling session is scheduled a month apart, but it may vary according to your skin type. Some people get this treatment every 6 weeks, but for effective results, a gap of 4 weeks is recommended.