Photo: @alessyafarrugiaa

Using tiny needles to regenerate the skin cells may sound scary, but this skin treatment has become an absolute favorite in the skincare community. As it sounds, microneedling is a pain-free, low-risk procedure that uses thin needles to pike microscopic holes into a targeted skin area to induce collagen growth. 

Also known as Collagen induction therapy (CIT) or derma rolling, this cosmetic procedure helps damaged skin, particularly skin affected by stretch marks and acne scars. For those new to this skin technique, this article provides answers to questions like "What does microneedling do?", "What is microneedling good for?" and "How does microneedling work?"

Benefits of Microneedling 

"What is Microneedling?" is a question that seems to have no satisfactory answer, but here's what you should know about it. Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that creates damage to the skin to prompt the production of necessary proteins like elastin and collagen. This is important because the production of these proteins reduces as we age; according to research, the human body experiences a sharp drop at 30. The reduction in collagen production leads to poor skin regeneration, a situation where scars and injuries heal slowly. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), a microneedling facial can help reduce the appearance of scars and improve the skin's elasticity, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). What does microneedling do for your face? It can also reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and unlike other procedures that are skin-tone specific, microneedling is ideal for both fair and dark skin. For this range of benefits it offers, microneedling does not sound as scary as it once seemed. 

What are the risks of Microneedling? 

Microneedling, like every other treatment, has some risk if performed poorly. A regular microneedling treatment begins after proper consultation with a registered professional. If you are deemed fit, you are then scheduled to come for your treatment.

During treatment, your aesthetician cleans, preps, and sterilizes your skin in preparation for the needles. A numbing cream or ointment is applied to reduce the pain hours before your treatment begins. After prepping, your aesthetician uses a sterile derma roller or an electric tool with many tiny needles to make microscopic cuts on your skin, which can either be your face, neck, arms, or anywhere on your body. 

The needle length varies, depending on the depth of your scars. Longer needles of about 2-3 mm are used for deep-rooted scars that are a few years old, while shorter needles of 0.5-1 mm are used for surface-level scars. After needling, your skin aesthetician begins an after-microneedling post-care treatment to ensure proper healing. 

If any of these steps are performed poorly, there is a high chance of skin damage, which can induce bleeding, redness, and itching. This often goes away within a few days to weeks. In rare situations, these microscopic microneedling scars can get infected and cause cold sores and swollen noodles and even worsen hyperpigmentation. Be aware that microneedling may not always result in your desired outcome, as you may need more than a procedure to see the results you desire. 

Is it safe to do Microneedling at home?

Microneedling is a delicate treatment that should not be handled by a non-professional. Part of the reason why microneedling at home is so risky is that there is a high chance of infection and skin damage. An at-home microneedling device is generally 0.1 mm-0.3 mm and is designed to enhance skin-care ingredient absorption, while the professional tool is 0.5-3 mm to trigger cell regeneration. 

Also, the average cost of professional microneedling treatment is about $250, while an online search brings thousands of "acclaimed professional derma rollers'' priced at $9-10. Since these derma rollers are often of low quality with no adherence to skincare standards, using them can cause severe damage to the skin. 

Studies have shown they contain microplastics that can penetrate your skin during rolling, which can worsen acne scars and infect the skin. Moreover, the numerous reports and "microneedling neck before and after'' images show this procedure should be performed by a professional.

What to Expect: Microneedling Before and After Results

Many people undergo a microneedling face before and after comparison to check their success, but the results can be different. In the days and weeks after microneedling, you will notice your skin feels tight and sensitive. Some people confessed to seeing immediate results, such as even skin tone and reduced pore visibility, a few weeks after their treatment. 

In most cases, your aesthetician will examine your 'microneedling before and after' pictures by highlighting the remarkable improvement in your skin texture. Do not get discouraged if you don't see immediate results, as different skin heals at different times. You may need to wait for some weeks or book another microneedling session to get your desired results. 

How long does Microneedling last?

Have you had your first session and you don't know how often should you do microneedling? According to dermatologists, the effects of your first microneedling session occur within 4 to 6 weeks. This time frame varies depending on your skin issues, microneedling treatment, and skin type. 

To enjoy long-lasting results, follow the post-care treatments recommended by the doctor. These treatments include regular use of sunscreen to prevent burns and the consistent application of a moisturizer such as Dermaclara's Hyaluronic acid moisturizer. We hope this answers your "How long does microneedling last?" questions. 

Painless Alternatives to Microneedling

"Is microneedling painful?" "Does microneedling hurt your skin?" If you are looking for a painless microneedling treatment that erases wrinkles, fine lines, and scars, we recommend microneedling patches. Microneedling patches work by puncturing your skin to stimulate collagen production. These patches employ the same method of making microscopic cuts into the skin. Each patch is made for one-time use only to prevent infection, so you no longer have to worry about sterilization. 

Topical retinoids can also be as effective as microneedling treatments. They are painless and suit any skin type and can be accessed easily. However, we recommend you get your doctor's prescription before using retinoids for acne scars.