common microneedling questions

A quick search on the internet or social media will showcase the vast variety of skincare procedures. When considering treatments at Front Range Dermatology, many people have questions about certain procedures, especially treatments that are popular and seem to be effective. Microneedling is a skin treatment that is quickly gaining popularity and can bring great results to a wide variety of people and skin conditions. However, many people still have questions. Here are 12 of the most common questions about microneedling. 

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a process of inserting hundreds of very fine needles all over the skin, which are typically the size of pinpricks and only go surface-level deep. Microneedling is often done with a small roller covered with tiny needles to get even pricks across the face or with a small pen-shaped tool with needles on the end for a more targeted treatment. By opening up the skin, microneedling promotes collagen development and new skin tissue and can create smoother, firmer skin. Microneedling has been around for decades but has gained popularity in recent years. Its main purpose is to rejuvenate the skin, and it can be used to improve a number of conditions, including acne scars, cellulite, and stretch marks.

Microneedling is commonly done on the face but can also be done on other skin areas. 

Is microneedling safe?

In general, microneedling is safe when done by a qualified dermatologist or esthetician. Although there are needles involved, it is a minimally invasive procedure and doesn’t require downtime. Microneedling is safe for people in overall good health, but it can be dangerous for women who are pregnant or people taking certain types of acne medicine. Too much microneedling can cause issues with the skin, so most experts recommend only getting a microneedling procedure once a month. There are DIY options available, but those should only be done if the product is approved by a dermatologist to make sure it is safe and the proper treatment for your skin condition. 

How fast does microneedling work?

For the first 24-48 hours after a treatment, most people experience redness and sensitivity. Some people may experience bruising or bleeding. Most people report seeing a fairly quick reaction to microneedling with their skin starting to improve soon after the procedure. After microneedling, most people notice their skin looks luminous and plump for a few weeks, with full results happening after about a month. With more procedures comes increasingly improved results and an increase in collagen and elastin in the skin for months after treatment. 

What skin treatments are best after microneedling?

Because microneedling involves needles and creates small pinpricks in the skin, it is best followed up with other skin treatments and products. On its own, microneedling is a temporary solution. To extend the results, use gentle products on your skin afterward, including gentle face creams, oils, and serums. To get personalized recommendations, talk to your dermatologist. 

What should I expect at a microneedling appointment?

Microneedling typically takes around one to two hours per treatment, but the exact time and cost depends on the size of the area being treated. In general, microneedling isn’t covered by insurance.

During a typical appointment, the dermatologist or esthetician will explain the procedure and examine your skin condition before applying a topical anesthetic to ease the pain. The doctor will then use the microneedling tool to work their way across the skin. After the procedure, the dermatologist or esthetician may apply a serum or calming treatment and give instructions for follow-up care and treatment. 

What skin problems are treatable by microneedling?

Microneedling has proven effective on a number of skin issues, including fine lines, acne scars, sagging skin, sun damage, stretch marks, large pores, and rough skin texture.

dermatologist performing microneedling treatment

Is microneedling painful?

Microneedling does involve needles, but the pain level varies depending on each person’s pain tolerance. Most people call microneedling “uncomfortable” but not “painful” and compare it to the discomfort of someone rubbing sandpaper on your face. Some treatments are more intense than others and may cause more pain. However, the needles are so small that the pain is usually fairly mild. Because some areas of the skin are thinner, such as around the eyes or mouth, those areas may be more sensitive to the pain. Microneedling is a fairly quick process, and the needles only go over each area of the skin once, so the pain is limited and doesn’t last for long. People with sensitive skin can apply numbing cream to their face or affected areas before the microneedling procedure to lessen the pain.

Does microneedling work on all skin types?

Microneedling is safe for all skin types and colors, no matter your race or type of skin. Microneedling can also be done on all areas of the body, including the face, neck, arms, legs, and other areas.

The only people who shouldn’t try microneedling are women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and people who have open wounds, have had recent radiation treatment, have a current skin infection, or have used the acne medicine Accutane in the last six months. A dermatologist will be able to determine if your skin and body is ready for microneedling, but most people will respond to the treatments just fine.

How much does microneedling cost?

The cost per treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition, the location, and the size of the treatment area. On average, microneedling costs less than $1,000 per treatment, typically closer to $200-$500. Some dermatologists and spas offer discounts for people who get multiple treatments. This cost is significantly lower than many other skin treatments or plastic surgery procedures that produce similar results, such as getting a facelift. In fact, many people have already spent that much money on skin serums and creams to try to solve a skin condition that can easily and permanently be taken care of with microneedling.

Does microneedling work after one treatment?

You’ll likely start to see great results after one treatment, but most patients require between four and five microneedling treatments, typically spaced about four to six weeks apart. Each treatment will improve the overall look of the skin and the skin condition. The number and frequently of the treatments is based on the severity of the condition, the sensitivity of the patient’s skin, and the age and overall health of the patient. Before the initial treatment session, the skincare professional will discuss your personalized treatment plan and can provide an estimate of how many sessions will be required for your individual condition. Conditions like acne scars and stretch marks, which tend to go deeper into the skin, may require more treatments to see optimal results.

Does microneedling have any negative side effects?

Dermatologists and aestheticians have performed hundreds of thousands of microneedling treatments and haven’t reported any negative side effects. The only potential side effect is mild redness and swelling after the treatment, but that is temporary and doesn’t impact the patient’s overall health at all.

What should I do after microneedling?

beautiful middle-aged woman

Microneedling has a very limited recovery time, which means you can get back to your normal life quickly after treatment. You’ll want to liberally apply cream moisturizers to the affected area after treatment to soothe the agitated skin and get rid of any redness. The only things to avoid after microneedling are exercising and going to the sauna. Because your skin may be tender and more sensitive than normal after a treatment, it’s best to avoid getting sweat in the pores for 24 hours. Sweat can cause inflammation, which can make your skin red and irritated for longer. You’ll also want to stay out of direct sunlight for 24 hours if possible to protect your skin from UV radiation that can lead to further irritation. 

These 12 common questions about microneedling show the effectiveness of the procedure and how it can be used to treat numerous skin conditions. Microneedling is a skin procedure that can bring great results for many people. In order to get the most out of your treatment, it helps to understand the risks and benefits. Talk to your Front Range Dermatology specialist for personalized recommendations and to see if microneedling is the right treatment for you.

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