When you hear the term ‘microneedling’, you may think of something painful or even scary. 

But microneedling is actually a popular and minimally-invasive treatment that people get to address various skin concerns. The process is performed with the help of microneedles –tiny and precise needles that penetrate into the uppermost layer of the skin. And today, it has become the go-to solution for many who want to minimize the appearance of their aging and start looking younger.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy, is one of the safest and most effective method of skin rejuvenation. As it name implies, it involves pricking the skin with very fine microneedles, creating tiny punctures in the skin. These tiny punctures stimulate the healing process, prompting the skin to heal itself, and producing natural collagen and elastin. With increased collagen, the skin becomes firmer, smoother and younger-looking.

Benefits of Microneedling

Microneedling is a suitable treatment for all skin types, including sensitive ones. The needling penetration is customized to the patient's skin type and treated condition, which makes the procedure safe and extremely efficient. Here are some of the benefits that microneedling can offer:

• Rejuvenates the skin: One of the main benefits of microneedling is reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone (pigmentation). The method can also improve skin texture to give you a soft and smooth complexion.

• Stimulates collagen production: By stimulating collagen production, microneedling can help reduce skin scarring (including acne scarring) and soften ageing spots.

• Treats enlarged pores: Microneedling can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and diminish acne scars.

• Minimizes hyperpigmentation: Microneedling can also be used to reduce hyperpigmentation, which is caused by too much melanin in one area.

• Fades out stretch marks: Stretch marks may be caused due to pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or rapid growth. Fortunately, microneedling can help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

• Improves skin appearance: Another benefit of microneedling is that it boosts skin appearance and health. The body responds to the process by producing new and healthy skin cells to replace the old, damaged tissues.

Who is a Good Candidate for Microneedling?

Not everyone is suitable for receiving microneedling treatment. But generally, this method can be performed on nearly all skin types and colors, including those who are affected by acne, wrinkles, scars, stretch marks, etc. Although microneedling provides safe and effective solutions to skin problems, people with the following conditions shouldFirstly, avoid microneedling:

• People with active acne: The presence of acne lesions may cause skin irritation and infection, so microneedling should be avoided.

• People with allergies: If you suffer from eczema or other allergies, microneedling may not be the best solution for you.

• Patients with skin diseases: If you are currently diagnosed with psoriasis, dermatitis, or other skin diseases, microneedling is not the right option for you.

• People with open wounds or cuts: You should wait until the wound has healed completely before using microneedling.

What Can You Expect During the Procedure?

The procedure begins with the anaesthetic cream being applied to the affected area. This step is to numb the area and reduce any discomfort you will have during the process. Once the anaesthetic cream has been applied, your specialist begins the microneedling process. Depending on the size of the area being treated, the microneedling process can take anywhere from 30-90 minutes.

The microneedles are generally between 0.5 to 2 mm in size and the depth of the puncture can be adjusted according to your skin type. During the process, small needles which are attached to the device are gently pushed through the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.

What to Expect After a Microneedling Procedure

Immediately after the procedure, you may experience redness on the treated area, and you may even notice some oozing, which is perfectly normal. The redness should fade over the next couple of days and the oozing should stop once your skin has healed.

It is important to note that the best results can generally be seen several weeks after the procedure is completed. And within a few months, you will definitely see improvements in skin tone, texture, and overall health.