Microneedling 101
What exactly is microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that is preformed at Allana Davis Studio in Toronto Yorkville using our Health Canada & FDA approved device called SkinPen. Micro needling creates precise-controlled micro-injuries that stimulate your skin’s natural healing process. Also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT) or percutaneous collagen induction (PCI).
The result is effective remodelling of scar tissue, plus a boost in collagen and elastin production. The SkinPen has been celebrated in numerous studies and published peer-reviewed journals it its safety and effectiveness.
What skin concerns does microneedling treat?
This has to be one of my favourite questions about microneedling. Simply because the SkinPen targets many skin concerns effectively; including but not limited too large pores, fine lines, scar tissue, hyperpigmentation (including melasma. Patients are always in disbelief of their results and excited for future treatments.
Does it hurt?
Some patients may experience discomfort during the treatment. I like to think if you can handle having a Brazilian wax then you will be good to go. Plus, we kick off the treatment with a nice numbing cream to help make you comfortable.
What can I expect post-microneedling?
After your treatment, you can expect your skin to appear a bit red- this is normal and will generally last 24-48 hours. After 24 hours you are allowed to apply makeup to even out your skin tone if needed. Aftercare of your treatment is important and you can read more about aftercare here.
First two weeks: You will notice your mild skin flaking, revealing a smoother complexion. Some patients also notice their skin purging (breaking out). Again, this is normal.
Weeks 3 - 6: Enjoy your upgraded selfie game and all the compliments about your natural glow, plump, smooth, and even skin tone.
What should I do to prepare for my appointment and How do I take care of my skin after my microneedling appointment?
Pre-treatment tips:
- Avoid alcohol consumption 48 hours before appointment as this thins the blood, increases bleeding and bruising.
- Discontinue use of exfoliants and acids such as retinol, AHA's, etc. up to 7 days before the appointment
- Avoid direct exposure to sun and tanning beds 72 hours before treatment. Also, no self-tanning products as these can cause a tattoo effect with microneedling.
- Avoid taking ibuprofen seven days before treatment - acetaminophen is safe to use up to and including the day of treatment.
What to expect during treatment:
Your skin care professional will begin your treatment with a numbing cream with MAXILENE to decrease sensitivity. You can expect to feel a slight burning sensation accompanied by tightness, and the skin will appear as though it’s been sunburned and will only last for a few days. Aftercare will be imperative to healthy healing.
Aftercare:
- Your skin may feel sensitive for the first few days. Some clients experience peeling or flaking which is normal as cells turnover. Remember no picking! Treat your skin gently and nourish it with products recommended by Allana Davis Studio.
- Try to avoid prolonged exposure to UV rays for the first few days and be sure to apply sunblock after the first 24 hours.
After 72 hours you will notice your skin starts to glow, your skin will be firmer. Full results will continue to improve over a few weeks.
You can expect to see skin tightening and pore reduction after one treatment, however like many procedures, you may require more than one treatment for maximum results, particularly when treating scar tissue. Results can last for months and be repeated as part of your regular skincare treatments.
It comes as no surprise that microneedling has become one of the most sought-after treatments for deep wrinkles and scarring, producing dramatic results. If you're considering this treatment, we recommend booking a consultation with our skin expert at www.AllanaDavisStudio.com today to see if microneedling is for you!
How Did It All Begin?
It all started in 1952 with Michel Pistor, a French physician who first developed the mesotherapy technique. Mesotherapy is a medical procedure where highly superficial injections of small doses of medication are locally injected at the site where the disorder or pain occurs." For this reason, it is a therapy reserved exclusively for adequately trained physicians.
Mesotherapy and microneedling are similar in that they create microchannels to stimulate the skin. The difference is that mesotherapy is performed by a medical professional to deliver medication through to the deeper layers of the skin, and microneedling treats severe scarring and deep wrinkles.
How does microneedling compare to laser treatments? Is it safe for my skin tone?
There are certain specific conditions that may be better treated by laser. However with heat-based treatment there is more downtime and risk, not to mention they are not safe for all skin tones.
"We opted to offer microneedling with SkinPen at ADS because it is inclusive, minimally invasive with minimal to no downtime, and yields absolutely flawless results for just about anyone!"
Microneedling helps with many skin conditions and truly helps your own body regenerate healthy and glowing skin. Although it is considering a universally safe procedure, there are certain contraindications and we do require a full consultation before starting a microneedling regimen with us.
Is microneedling safe for everyone?
At ALLANA DAVIS STUDIO, integrity is what we live by - integrity of the skin and how we educate our clients.
Your skin protects your organs, tissue and muscles from external factors. Therefore, treating it well will encourage cellular turnover and healthy skin.
The first step would be a consultation to evaluate your skin and look at other possible less invasive treatments. Microneedling would be our last recommendation for treating deep wrinkles and acne scarring. The consultation process is very in-depth and considers other health factors, including medications, supplements, health conditions and current skincare products you are using.
Although microneedling is a safe and effective procedure when performed by a professional, it is not for everyone. Those on blood thinners, diabetes and certain acne medications are also not suitable candidates for this treatment. Microneedling should never be performed on acne-activated flare-ups, as this can further infect the skin by transferring bacteria into the open wounds.
If you you have sensitive skin, rosacea, eczema, acne, or dermatitis we suggest coming in for a complementary or booking a virtual consultation. For these skin types we may suggest avoiding microneedling due to how it increases inflammation, but again a consultation would confirm that.
Certain risks are associated with this treatment, including infection at needle insertion points, hyperpigmentation (dark spots) from increased melanin production after injury, hypopigmentation (loss of colour), scars from inflammation around injection sites leading to keloid scarring.
It's essential to consult with your skincare professional to see if you are a good candidate for this treatment.
To chat with us about which products will work best for your skin concerns, send us an email!