Top 12 Questions about Microneedling
As you may already know, microneedling is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that naturally reduces wrinkles, rejuvenates the skin by greatly increasing the body’s collagen production, and stimulating greater circulation to the facial skin and muscles. It is the rapid insertion of many fine needles into the skin by using a microneedling pen. This can help to penetrate the deep layers of the skin to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, eliminate skin discoloration, reduce acne, as well as stimulate hair growth for those experiencing hair loss, all without painful surgery or injections.
Keep reading to learn the answers to your top questions about microneedling.
What does microneedling feel like?
Everyone has a different perception of sensation, but most folks find microneedling entirely palatable. Since the tool spins at a very high rpm, discomfort is incredibly minimal. I’d say the sensation is more ‘ticklish’ than painful with more sensitivity around the nose, mouth, and forehead.
For those that prefer, we can apply lidocaine cream to the face before a microneedling session.
What is a typical session like?
-First, we’ll chat for a few minutes to make sure you understand the procedure and so we can get a better understanding of your goals and desired outcomes.
-Next we will prep the skin by using a cleansing cloth. If you are nervous about the sensation of microneedling we can also apply lidocaine to the facial area at this time
-Then, we microneedle! We infuse hyaluronic acid into the skin as we go over everything with the microneedling device. The actual ‘microneedling’ part only takes about 15-20 minutes.
-Afterwards we will put on a custom serum containing Swiss apple stem cells. We may apply some other serums infused with Chinese Herbal medicine depending on skin type and desires.
-Once this soaks in we will leave you to rest with a soothing aloe vera mask for about 10 minutes to calm the skin.How many microneedling sessions do I need?
Results vary based on skin condition and age, but generally we recommend 3-8 visits spaced out on a monthly interval. Progress with microneedling is cumulative and it’s best to do a series of visits rather than a one off. Most people need 3 visits before they start seeing a lasting change.
How often do I have to come in for microneedling?
Once per month is the typical interval for a microneedling treatment. More than that can overstimulate the skin, and less may take longer to yield results. However, you can do nanoneedling in between your microneedling sessions to speed up results.
For someone who has already undergone a series of microneedling sessions, a ‘maintenance’ visit can be scheduled once every 6 months.
What can I expect after a microneedling appointment?
Your skin will most likely be a bit red and sensitive, like a sunburn, after the appointment, but it should calm down over the next 24 hours.
You may notice some areas stay red for longer than others, this is totally normal. It is best not to do microneedling the day of or before a big event where you’re concerned about skin discoloration.
You may also notice what appears to be peeling of the skin. Majority of the time, this is actually just the serums we use piling up on the skin’s surface. You can rub a little bit of water on your face to emulsify everything and help them absorb more.
It takes up to 2 weeks to see the full results from a microneedling appointment.
What does microneedling aftercare involve?
-No make up for 24 hours
-No regular skin care for 24 hours. Only cleanse the skin with warm water, no soap or other cleansers . You can use hyaluronic acid serums and any samples we give you ONLY for 24 hours.
-No exercise the day of your appointment as sweat can irritate the skin.
-Stay out of the sun the day you get microneedling and be sure to be extra diligent about sunscreen usage the first week after microneedling.
How long will results last?
Everyone is different but results typically last 2-5 years. It is recommended to get a ‘maintenance’ treatment every 6months to 1 year after a series is completed to help maintain results.
Who is NOT a candidate for microneedling?
-Those who are pregnant. We can, however, do nanoneedling
-Very inflamed, active acne. We can microneedle around any acne spots, but we never want to microneedle over any blemishes
-As above with acne, those with very active psoriasis or eczema
-People with extreme keloidal tendency
-Individuals on anticoagulant medications
-Patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation
How does microneedling differ from facial acupuncture?
Microneedling and facial acupuncture can work wonderfully in tandem together. In fact, we often recommend coming in for facial acupuncture on your weeks when you’re not doing microneedling to improve results.
Microneedling is more effective at treating: wrinkles, age spots, scars, skin tone discoloration, and acne, while facial acupuncture is better at: lifting, firming, tightening sagging skin.
If your concerns are from a more systemic health issue, facial acupuncture can help address the underlying imbalance leading to skin issues.
Can I use HSA/FSA or insurance to pay for microneedling?
Microneedling is not covered by any insurance companies, HSA, or FSA funds, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. We offer treatment packages at a discounted rate.
Can I do botox/injectables at the same time?
Yes; however, we do not recommend getting microneedling done over the areas where you have had botox within the last 3 months. We can avoid those areas if you let us know before the beginning of your treatment. Avoiding these areas are important to maintain botox work.
What are other areas besides the face you can microneedle?
-Hands
-scalp
-neck
-décolleté
-scars anywhere on the body
-stretch marks anywhere on the body
Want to learn more about what microneedling can help with?
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