Collagen is among the most celebrated ingredients in skincare. Maybe that’s because the skin is almost exclusively made of this essential protein.
Experts have learned that the best way to encourage your body to produce more wrinkle-fighting collagen is to trick the skin into thinking it has been injured. That’s the genius methodology behind the collagen induction therapy known as Microneedling.
What is Microneedling?
Fine lines meet fine needles. Used to create microscopic puncture wounds in the skin, these small but ever-so effective acupuncture-like needles create micro-injuries that kick the body’s natural healing process into gear. They’re similar to laser treatments, but work manually instead of technologically and come in a variety of forms from derma rollers to mechanical microneedle cartridges. The result produces new collagen-rich tissue reserves that plump and thicken the skin. For once the gimmick of “fight anti-aging” appears to be true.
While there may be some people who practice home microneedling, we still recommend visiting your local licensed esthetician or other cosmetic professional for your microneedling procedure.
What Are the Benefits of Microneedling?
Microneedling is a multi-benefit procedure that targets a variety of common skin complaints. Though it may sound scary at first, the procedure is virtually pain-free (thanks to numbing agents applied at your esthetician’s office) and requires almost no downtime.
It’s minimally invasive but can be maximally effective at:
- Diminishing fine lines and wrinkles,
- Fading acne scars,
- Reversing hyperpigmentation from sun damage or melisma,
- Enhancing skin’s texture,
- Tightening aging skin,
- Shrinking pores,
- Increasing the efficacy and absorption of your skincare products,
- Reducing cellulite,
- Correcting hair loss, and
- Repairing stretch marks all over the body.
You read that last one right. While most microneedling treatments are performed on the face, the procedure isn’t limited to any specific part of your body. Meaning, if you have a problem area on your back, legs, or butt this could be a simple solution.
Just ask this Reddit user whose before-and-after stretch mark photo went viral once she showed off her transformative microneedling experience.
How Often Should You Have Microneedling Done?
Now the only question left isn’t if you should try microneedling, but how often. That, however, depends on your skin’s sensitivity and what results you’re looking to achieve.
Longer needles will elicit more self-healing collagen, but you could be looking at four to six weeks between treatments. Shorter needles may be administered more often. Whichever you choose, don’t wait longer than eight to 12 weeks between treatments to schedule a follow-up appointment and plan to have at least 3-5 sessions for maximum results.
Though you should start to see a glowing-from-within radiance as soon as the next morning following a microneedling application, know that it can take several weeks to heal deep acne scars or pronounced stretch marks.
How Do I Care for Skin After Microneedling?
Aside from some minor bleeding in the office and possible temporary redness, you shouldn’t experience any downtime. The pain-free procedure can leave your skin slightly more sensitive than when you came in, so be sure to liberally apply some broad-spectrum, mineral based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
You should be able to wear face makeup by the evening hours after a microneedling appointment, but the longer you can go without the better.
Avoid retinol products and exfoliates for a few days after, and step up your moisturizing routine. Consider adding in a hyaluronic acid to help support your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
In short, Microneedling totally debunks the whole, “pain is beauty” mantra. Ready to experience this micro-miracle for yourself? Get glowing by clicking the Skin Care tab on ginasplatform.com to find the best skin care salons in your area or use the Gina’s Platform app to find an esthetician near you.
xoxo,
Gina
This article does not contain medical advice and the information herein should not replace a consultation with a physician. See your doctor or a professional esthetician for skin care assistance personalized to your needs.
Gina Rivera
Beauty Icon and Expert
Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.
