Acclaimed by celebrities and beauty professionals,
Microneedling is all the rage in skincare treatments at the moment and for a good reason. It can literally transform your skin and even erase some years from your face.
But how can tiny needles help you defeat the effects of time?
One of the main causes of aging is the loss of collagen and elastin which becomes more palpable year after year, especially as the level of estrogen starts to drop more dramatically. These tiny needles create micro-channels in the skin that signal the presence of a minute injury and despite the minuscule nature of the wound it is enough to induce the production of new collagen also working as a vehicle to facilitate deeper absorption of active ingredients.
Professional in office treatments are more powerful but at home treatments are gaining popularity, even some skincare companies offer the roller as part of their daily routine. For the purpose of this article I will refer to the use of the handheld roller used at home which can also provide great results when used properly.
Either you are already a big fan of the needling or are eager to put the big hype to the test, here are some tips that will help you take your treatment to the next level:
EXFOLIATE BEFORE THE FIRST TREATMENT
Gently removing dead skin cells a couple of days before the first treatment will help you achieve more even results allowing the roller to run smoothly and avoiding tugging or pulling of the skin and also improving absorption of the nutrients. It is not necessary to do it all the time but I have found to really make a difference in the results, on the first treatment.
KEEP THE SKIN MOIST
Keeping your keep moist with the serum while performing the rolling prevents causing more irritation and in addition, you take advantage of the momentum when the skin is more readily able to absorb the product.
SELECT INGREDIENTS THAT CAN HELP IMPROVE YOUR SKIN CONCERN
There are thousands of ingredients out there that promise to improve the skin. However, the only ones that will make a difference to your skin are those that can help your personal needs. Either you suffer from acne scars, hyperpigmentation or want to improve lines and wrinkles…the serum you select is as important as the procedure so choose a product that contains ingredients to help improve your skin concerns that way you will see faster results.
MORE IS NOT BETTER
Controlled inflammation is expected in this treatment but don’t get too carried away wanting to over treat the skin. Too much inflammation increases free radical activity and guess what… it translates into… “oxidation” which in fact ages you, so as you can see.. more is not always better.
Consider the needles size in the roller you are using. It is not same to use a 0.25mm than a 0.50mm or a 1mm. The higher the number the more aggressive the treatment so the recovery time should be accordingly. That way you allow the skin to replenish its protective barrier and restore its integrity avoiding negative side effects. The more aggresive the treatment the more time you should allow in between treatments.
Also avoid other type of exfoliants or irritating ingredients after the treatment, it will only cause excessive inflammation and sensitivity.
POST CARE
The following day is normal to feel the skin a little sensitive and it might even tingle a little if you exercise. If a natural micro-exfoliation (desquamation) occurs the skin can feel a little dry or rough. It happens in a microscopic level so you might not see the peeling but you can feel the difference in the skin texture. Stay away from heat, internal or external like direct sun, hot showers or saunas to avoid getting post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is crucial to maintain the skin well-hydrated at all times and to use a sunblock daily.
DESINFECT THE ROLLER EVERY TIME
Although in a minute scale, this is a treatment where the skin is being pricked which makes it more vulnerable to bacteria. Make sure you wash your hands before you do the treatment (using gloves is best) and sanitize the roller every time you use it. Follow the manufacture’s cleaning instructions. Denture cleaning tablets and alcohol are recommended by many Companies. Once clean, the roller should be stored in a closed case to protect it from getting contaminated.
Like the old say says: “no pain, no gain”… well… when it comes to beauty and anti-aging treatments most people will be willing to ignore the pain if they see the gain! So what do you think my friend?
Are you ready for a prick?
Thank you for being here.
Until next time,
Dora Salazar
Medical Aesthetician
