Although microneedling has been around for nearly 15 years, it is currently receiving quite a buzz in skin care and beauty circles. Designed to give the skin a smoother, more even texture and a radiant glow, the non-invasive treatment is available with Los Angeles-area plastic surgeon George Sanders. In this blog post, Dr. Sanders shares what you need to know about microneedling to give you an idea of whether it might be right for you!
What Microneedling Accomplishes
Microneedling achieves two objectives: it stimulates the production of collagen for firmer, smoother skin, and it helps the skin absorb topical products more deeply. It is helpful for smoothing wrinkles, softening acne scars and improving other problems with skin tone and texture.
Microneedling uses a device to create tiny holes in the skin. The device looks like a miniature paint roller, covered in tiny spikes that measure between 0.2 and 1 mm. The device is rolled over the skin, creating tiny pricks and narrow channels. These channels close almost immediately, but the wounds activate the body’s natural healing. As the skin works to repair itself, the body produces collagen and elastin, which are two proteins vital to healthy, beautiful skin. As collagen and elastin are generated, the skin gradually starts to thicken and soften. After treatment, topical products can penetrate the skin more easily. These creams contain various growth factors, which are substances that further stimulate collagen and elastin formation
The treatment is safe for all skin types. It is not painful, but depending on the length of the needles, it can feel like sandpaper running over the skin. After treatment, the skin may look like it’s sunburned and be slightly sensitive; acidic products should be avoided for about a week.
Depending on the specific skin care problem, several microneedling sessions may be needed to achieve the desired results. With continued use, microneedling can give the skin a smooth, even texture and a radiant glow.
At-Home vs. Professional Microneedling Treatment
Microneedling devices can be purchased and used at home; but a plastic surgeon or dermatologist can deliver deeper and more effective treatment. During an in-office professional microneedling session, the doctor can customize treatment to your unique needs by modifying the needles’ depth. The ability to customize treatment is helpful for targeting specific skin care problems and adjusting the aggressiveness of the treatment.
Talk to Dr. Sanders about Your Skin Care Needs
Would you like to meet with Dr. Sanders to discuss your personal skin care concerns and to formulate a personalized treatment plan? Please schedule an appointment by calling (818) 981-3333 today.
