From the Research
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves creating tiny punctures in the skin using a device with fine needles, and the most effective and safest approach is to use an automated microneedling device, such as Exceed, with a treatment protocol of 3-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, as supported by the highest quality study 1. The procedure begins with cleansing the skin and applying a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort. After 20-30 minutes, the provider uses a microneedling device to make thousands of microscopic channels in the treatment area. The needles typically range from 0.5mm to 2.5mm in length, with deeper penetration used for more significant concerns like acne scars. Some treatments incorporate serums containing growth factors, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C that are applied during or immediately after the procedure for enhanced results.
Key Considerations
- The entire process usually takes 30-60 minutes.
- Following treatment, the skin appears red and may feel sensitive for 24-72 hours.
- Microneedling works by triggering the skin's natural wound healing response, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
- This controlled injury process helps improve skin texture, reduce scars, minimize pores, and address fine lines without significant downtime.
Safety and Efficacy
- Microneedling is a relatively safe procedure with minimal adverse effects, including expected erythema, pain, edema, and temporary skin irritation, as reported in a systematic review of 51 articles involving 1,029 patients 2.
- The treatment is well-tolerated, with minimal pain, discomfort, and downtime, and side effects are minor and easily managed, as demonstrated in a study of 48 subjects who underwent four microneedling sessions 1.
Indications and Applications
- Microneedling can be used for a variety of dermatological conditions, including acne scars, alopecia, melasma, and skin rejuvenation, as well as for the treatment of scars, including acne scarring, hypertrophic or keloid scars, and those resulting from surgery, trauma, varicella or smallpox 3.
- The procedure can be combined with other surgical techniques to provide better results, and is a safe technique for dark skin types, where the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation is high with other techniques that damage the epidermis 4.