Microneedling also referred to as collagen induction therapy, is a skin treatment that involves repeatedly puncturing the skin with tiny, sterile needles in order to create superficial wounds that stimulate the production of collagen and other growth factors creating a more youthful appearance.
Microneedling treatments go as far back as 1905 and are internationally recognized as one of the safest, most effective ways of treating lax skin, wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks.
Conditions treated by Microneedling
- Treatment of Melasma “Dark patches”
- Treatment of Acne Scarring
- Helps rebuild Collagen and improves fine lines.
- Helps repair Sun damage.
A shorter needle penetration can enhance and smooth superficial skin while longer needles are used to create a collagen response that has been proven effective in atrophic acne scar treatment.
Microneedling Treatment FAQ's
Typically, microneedling is a little uncomfortable with depths needed for scar revision, but this is managed easily with a topical numbing gel placed on the skin prior to treatment. Lighter treatments are compared to brushing sandpaper across the skin.
Because microneedling is not a particularly aggressive treatment, you’ll need several treatments over a 3 to 6 month period. Treatment results are cumulative, so you will need to commit to more than one treatment to get obvious results.
Acne scar patients usually will need 6 to 8 treatments – fewer when combined with laser.
Generally the more common use of microneedling is to augment laser or other fractional resurfacing. But some patients who have high pigment skin don’t want the risk of heat-induced pigmentation so needling is an alternative. Also, the cost of microneedling is less than laser since the cost of laser equipment does not have to be considered.
Generally no, but you may experience facial redness like a moderate to severe sunburn for 12-48 hours after the treatment. Most people are able to return to normal daily activities immediately after the treatment. Patients can apply mineral make up as a breathable camouflage to cover any redness in about 24 hours.
The procedure is minimally invasive, which means that there is little downtime and the healing process is quick. Aftercare is also very simple and can be fully administered at home.
Side effects experienced with microneedling will usually subside within 48 hours. They include redness of the skin, stinging, itching and tightness of the skin.
The procedure takes 15-30 minutes depending on the size of the area treated.
The benefits of microneedling can included a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, younger-looking skin with fewer signs of aging.
Eclipse MicroPen® may also has a positive effect on the appearance of hyper-pigmentation, hypo-pigmentation, acne scars, traumatic scars and stretch marks and generally creates a fresher appearance or glow to the skin.
Still have questions, please contact our Cedars-Sinai Medical Towers office at (310) 659-9075. For over 30+ years Dr. Mekelburg has offered the most innovative techniques and the quickest recovery times in the safest environment possible.
Eclipse MicroPen & Automated Needling
The MicroPen is a revolutionary dermal microneedling device and has several advantages over other anti-aging devices such as lasers and dermal needle rollers.
Los Angeles dermatologist Dr. Mekelburg utilizes the Eclipse MicroPen because it delivers greater efficiency and superior results for most skin types while maintaining the highest level of safety for our patients. The MicroPen’s high-speed motor allows for a more efficient yet timely procedure that usually takes only 10-15 minutes. In addition, the MicroPen can customize a treatment based on your unique skin needs and requirements.
Microneedling Before & After Pics
Microneedling is a skin-rejuvenating procedure that improves the overall texture and appearance.
Please note that results may vary from patient to patient.
How Will My Skin Feel After Microneedling Treatment?
Light treatment levels: Depending upon the depth of the needles used, you may feel as though your skin is warm or hot – and sensitive. Light superficial treatments leave the skin red for a day or two.
More aggressive levels: Treatments aimed at changing the skin at deeper planes as in acne scarring may experience some swelling, pinpoint bleeding (stops almost immediately) and what is called “bronzing” as the tiny pinpoints dry and then slough off.
Your skin may also feel tight. It will be more sun sensitive so you should use the recommended sunblock while your skin heals and you should not use acid or other active products outside of the schedule you will be given. Treat it gently and don’t “pick” at any areas that feel like sand granules.
Our Cedar’s Sinai office is now accepting Microneedling patients. Book your treatment today and ask about our special packaging prices – (310) 659-9075.
