Keen to know more about this multi-purpose treatment? We got the lowdown from the team at Pulse Dermatology & Laser.
Micro-needling is a multi-purpose, minimally-invasive treatment that tackles everything from acne scars, to wrinkles, to stretch marks. It was first practiced in the late 1990s, but it is only recently that is has become widely accessible and popular.
What is micro-needling?
Micro-needling is the insertion of micro-fine needles into the skin. The needles enter the skin at surface-level depth, puncturing the skin to stimulate the body’s collagen production. Collagen is an essential protein that helps keep our skin looking youthful, firm and smooth. Our bodies produce collagen naturally, but as we age, our production of collagen decreases and this contributes to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
The tiny punctures created by micro-needling are experienced as “injuries” by the body, and these injuries prompt the body to ramp up its collagen production in order to heal the skin. The body produces and sends healing agents collagen and elastin to the skin to facilitate the healing process. The healing process that takes place does not just involve the healing of the needle prick sites; the collagen and elastin also get to work helping the skin recover from a variety of other concerns.
Micro-needling has shown incredible results in reducing wrinkles and fine lines, acne and acne scars, pigmentation, stretch marks, rosacea and uneven skin texture.
The procedure breaks down old tissue and triggers the production of new elastin and collagen for healthier skin, which is how it is able to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
Pulse Dermatology & Laser makes us of the Eclipse MicroPen, the most advanced medical-grade automated micro-needling device on the market.
How is MicroPen different from dermal needling rollers?
Not all micro-needling procedures are equal. Automated micro-needling devices move in a vertical direction for better precision when treating the skin. This also prevents the risk of creating micro-tears in the skin. At Pulse Dermatology & Laser, therapists use a combination of a glide and stamping technique to ensure that it is completely vertical, which ensures better results.
How is the procedure done?
A sterile cartridge containing 12 tiny micro-points is attached to the Eclipse MicroPen. Your Pulse skincare professional will apply a hyaluronic acid and protein product as well as sterile mesothetic solutions based on the patient’s needs (for example vitamin A or C), to the skin. This medical skin cocktail is mixed by your therapist to ensure customised treatment for your needs and concerns. In many cases your therapist will combine the needling with a peel for collagen production, which is immediately followed by face mask under an LED light to heal and nourish the skin.
Typically, the skin has a radiant glow immediately following an Eclipse MicroPen micro-needling session.
Does it hurt?
Your therapist will apply a very good numbing agent to your skin before the treatment to ensure you do not experience any discomfort.
Is there any downtime?
Do not book a hot date on the day of your procedure! Your skin will be red and you will be sent home with a tailor-made mask on, which means you cannot touch your skin for the rest of the day.
Are there any risks?
Provided you follow the after-care guidelines, your skin will recover fairly quickly. After the procedure you need to be extremely vigilant with wearing sunscreen. You should also avid touching your face, as bacteria from your hands can cause a slight infection.
How often should you have the procedure done?
This procedure can be done once every four weeks.
Micro-needling is more easily accessible than ever, and is a much more affordable treatment than some of the alternatives out there. It has the ability to diminish and minimise imperfections, while delaying the signs of ageing and giving the skin a healthy and radiant glow.
To book a treatment, or find out more, visit http://pulsedermatologyandlaser.com/, email [email protected] or call 021 914 0447.
