Posted July 12, 2023 in Blog
Microneedling can make a world of difference in the skin, taking it from damaged and aged-looking to refreshed, renewed, and rejuvenated. But consistency is the secret to getting the maximum results out of a microneedling treatment. And with that in mind, how often you need to do microneedling greatly impacts your results, considering that results are cumulative.
Does the needle depth of my microneedling treatment impact the results?
The length of the needles used during microneedling impacts the depth of your microneedling results. If the needles used are less than one millimeter long, more treatments are required more frequently. The longer the needles are, the deeper the micro-injures, which can take longer to heal.
How many microneedling treatments will I need?
Since every person is different, the number of treatments differs from one person to the next. So, to reap microneedling benefits, you will need to invest in a series of microneedling treatments. Most people need between three and six treatments to see results, but some may require fewer or more sessions. During a consultation with our staff, we can assess your skin and the number of treatments you will best benefit from. Then, once you achieve your desired results, routine maintenance may be necessary to upkeep the results.
Is there a specific amount of time I need to wait between microneedling treatments?
The recommended amount of time to wait between microneedling treatments varies depending on several factors, including the specific treatment, the depth of the needles used, your skin concerns, and your skin type.
With more mild treatments, you will want to wait four to six weeks between sessions. This allows ample time for the skin to heal correctly and regenerate new collagen before undergoing another treatment.
Deeper treatments usually necessitate waiting six to eight weeks, if not longer. Because these treatments are somewhat more invasive, the skin needs longer to heal.
However, if your skin is more sensitive or reactive, you may need to wait a bit longer.
Are there any risks in over-microneedling the skin?
Even though microneedling benefits the skin, overdoing it can cause serious risks, including skin irritation, redness, and inflammation, leading to discomfort. Overdoing treatments or not allowing ample time between sessions can lead to scarring and even hyperpigmentation.
How many microneedling sessions does it take to see results?
Some people notice the benefits after one treatment, while others need to undergo the entire course of treatment to see the full results. The benefits of microneedling include new collagen production, which visibly improves the appearance of the skin. As new collagen and elastin are created deep within the skin, there’s an increase in skin firmness, fewer visible pores, and a decreased appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What can I expect from a microneedling treatment?
Most microneedling sessions are well tolerated, and patients appreciate the results they see. Usually, a single session will take about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. Topical numbing cream is first applied to your skin to ensure that you are comfortable for the duration of this treatment.
About one week before your microneedling treatment, it’s best to stop taking certain supplements such as vitamin E, fish oil, and ginkgo. You may also need to temporarily stop using medications such as aspirin that cause the blood to thin. This will also reduce the likelihood of bleeding and bruising during the treatment. You will also want to prepare the skin for your appointment by discontinuing chemical exfoliants and retinol and retinoids for at least three days, if not longer, before your treatment.
As the skin heals after treatment, there will be some skincare restrictions you will need to follow. You’ll want to keep the skin clean for as long as possible, so do not wear makeup for at least 24 hours after. Also, avoid hot water, steam, and harsh cleansers and exfoliators on the skin. Hydrating the skin with a gentle lotion and wearing SPF daily is essential.
Does microneedling tighten the skin?
Many people ask, “does microneedling work,” and if it can tighten the skin. The results of microneedling speak for themselves.
When it’s inserted gently into the skin, they can create micro-injuries within the skin to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. As the microneedling healing stages occur, the skin begins to produce fibroblasts that help the collagen grow and form as needed to improve the skin’s texture. With increased collagen production, the skin’s underlying structure and superficial appearance improve and appear tighter. The new collagen also helps tighten existing lines, wrinkles, and scars.
How can I maintain the results?
Microneedling results are relatively easy to maintain, and the best way to keep the skin looking its best after treatment is with regular appointments. Most people can sustain their results with an appointment every six months to preserve the effects of collagen production.
Daily lifestyle choices are also important in maintaining your microneedling results. We always recommend investing in complimentary aesthetic treatments and using high-quality skincare products to ensure the appearance of the skin. Reducing alcohol and tobacco intake, drinking plenty of water, eating clean, and avoiding direct exposure to the sun is also helpful.
How many times per year should I do microneedling?
After your initial sessions are complete, you’ll need maintenance sessions to keep up the results. On average, we recommend one to two treatments per year so that your skin can continue to reap the microneedling benefits. To better understand how often to microneedle, set up a consultation today!
