What is micro-needling
Micro-needling is a cosmetic procedure that involves creating tiny punctures in the skin using a device called a derma roller or a micro-needling pen. These punctures, also known as micro-injuries, stimulate the skin’s natural healing process and can help reduce the appearance of scars on the body and face. Micro-needling can also be known as “collagen induction therapy”.
Micro-needling is effective for scar reduction as it:
Triggers collagen and elastin production
Micro-needling will trigger the production of collagen and elastin. These are the two proteins responsible for the skin’s structure and elasticity. When the tiny needles penetrate the skin, they create controlled injuries, prompting the body to produce new collagen and elastin fibres. These fibres help to remodel and repair the scar tissue, making them significantly less noticeable over time.
Increases the absorption of topical treatments (serums)
The micro-injuries (small punctures in the skin) created by micro-needling enhances the absorption of topical treatments applied to the skin. During and after the micro-needling treatment dermatologists often apply serums that will further promote skin healing and scar reduction. The microchannels created by the needles allow these products to penetrate deeper into the skin, increasing their effectiveness.
Breaks up existing scar tissue
Scar tissue is often characterized by dense collagen fibres that form irregular patterns. Micro-needling can break up such fibrous bands, allowing for a more even distribution of collagen and elastin to be formed. By disrupting the tough scar tissue, micro-needling encourages the skin to regenerate and replace the damaged tissue with new and healthier skin cells.
Improves blood circulation in the area
Micro-needling stimulates blood circulation in the treated area. The increased blood flow brings oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to the site, which support and accelerate the healing process. This improved circulation also helps to remove waste products and toxins, further aiding in scar reduction.
The effectiveness of micro-needling treatment on scars varies depending on the type and severity of the scar tissue. Micro-needling can also be used as an effective stretch mark treatment. It is recommended to consult with a dermatologist or a qualified skincare professional who can assess your specific situation and determine the most suitable treatment for your scarring.
Should you have treatment at home or in the clinic
While micro-needling can be performed by professionals in clinical settings, there are also at-home micro-needling products available on the market. This is an invasive treatment, so it is important to consider the safety aspects before attempting micro-needling yourself.
Risks of micro-needling at home include the risk of infection and actually worsening or triggering skin damage.
Micro-needling carries inherent risks, so it’s best to undergo the procedure with a trained professional in a clinical setting. If you’re interested in micro-needling, it’s recommended to consult a dermatologist or an aesthetician who can evaluate your skin and perform the procedure safely and effectively.
Micro-needling can also be combined with radiofrequency treatment. The combination treatment allows delivery of radiofrequency energy to access the deeper layers of the skin. The micro-needles create tiny punctures in the skin, allowing the radiofrequency energy to penetrate more effectively. The RF energy heats the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin tissues.
