If your skin has lost its youthful glow, or you would like to erase fine lines and wrinkles, microneedling may be the answer for your skin concerns. Microneedling is a simple, affordable procedure that can give your face a smooth, glowing appearance. But how long does microneedling last?
Understanding Microneedling
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that rejuvenates the skin using tiny needles. These needles create microchannels in the superficial layer of the skin. The procedure is also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT).
Microneedling can be used to address a variety of skin problems, including hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, enlarged pores, skin laxity, and acne scars.
Microneedling is most often performed for facial rejuvenation but can be done on other parts of the body, including the arms, legs, and decolletage.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Microneedling works by using a device with tiny needles to create controlled injuries in the superficial layer of the skin. The micro-injuries trigger the skin’s repair process, and the skin responds by increasing the production of collagen and elastin to heal the injuries.
Collagen and elastin are proteins that combine to make the skin smooth, firm, and elastic.
Microneedling is a simple in-office treatment that takes about 20 minutes to complete.
Does Microneedling Hurt?
Having your skin punctured by needles may seem like it would hurt, but microneedling is done only at the surface level, so it is not painful. Also, a topical numbing cream is applied to the skin at the start of treatment to minimize discomfort.
How Long Does Microneedling Last?
How long microneedling lasts varies for each patient, depending on their skin type and skin health.
The micro-injuries created during microneedling stimulate collagen, which improves the appearance of the skin. Most patients notice initial results after the first session as the skin looks radiant and more youthful. However, it generally takes a series of treatments to achieve the benefits of microneedling.
Microneedling sessions are spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. The sessions are appropriately spaced to give the skin time to heal between treatments.
The skin is continually improving with microneedling as new collagen fibers are laid down, so the results are cumulative. Optimal results can be seen about 3-4 weeks after the final session and last about 3-5 months.
Maintaining The Results Of Microneedling
After microneedling, patients should commit to taking care of their skin by adopting a skin care routine that provides the skin with the nutrients needed. They should also be careful to use sun protection when going outdoors.
Follow-up microneedling treatments are also recommended and can be done every 6 months as required.
The skin changes over time, therefore the results of microneedling are not permanent.
To achieve optimal results, microneedling should be performed by experienced skincare professionals.
Benefits Of Microneedling
Microneedling can be customized to fit the specific needs of each patient and is safe for use on all skin types and skin tones.
The micro-channels created during microneedling increase the degree of absorption of skincare products, allowing them to work more efficiently. Nutrient-dense products such as hyaluronic acid and peptides are often applied to the skin after microneedling. These products help boost the long-term health of the skin.
Microneedling is a safe, low-risk procedure. Patients may experience mild redness and irritation after treatment, but these side-effects typically resolve within a few hours.
Microneedling is a transformative procedure that can improve the overall tone and texture of your skin. However, if you are considering microneedling, it’s important to discuss the lasting effects with your provider during your consultation, so that you have realistic expectations about the procedure.