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What You Need to Know About Microneedling

Jun 15, 2021

Do you crave smoother, firmer, younger-looking skin? If so, you might want to try microneedling. Before your first treatment, learn more about this procedure to decide if it’s right for you.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a therapy designed to increase the body’s natural collagen production. A dermatologist delivers microneedles to the epidermis (outer layer of skin) and the dermis (inner layer of skin) using a mechanical, handheld device known as a DermaPen®. The super-tiny needles can be adjusted in length from 0.5 to 2.5 millimeters, depending on the area receiving treatment and your cosmetic goals.

Microneedling treats the following skin problems:

  • Fine wrinkles
  • Acne scars
  • Surgical scars
  • Sagging skin
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Stretch marks

Does Microneedling Hurt?

The idea of having tiny needles prick your skin might sound painful, but a vast majority of patients report little to no discomfort, both during and after treatment. A topical numbing cream makes microneedling as pleasant as possible. The minimally invasive nature of this procedure means that patients feel no pain hours later, even once the numbness wears off.

How to Prepare for Microneedling

Minimal preparation is needed. If you use retinol skincare products, discontinue use 48 hours before your microneedling treatment. Avoid sun exposure for three days leading up to your appointment as well.

Arrive at the dermatologist’s office with clean, dry skin and wearing no makeup. You’ll have the option to wash your face before the procedure to prepare your skin to receive the numbing cream.

What Microneedling Treatment Looks Like

Once the numbing cream is applied, you will need to wait 10 to 30 minutes for the topical anesthesia to take effect. A soothing serum is then applied to the face to promote faster skin repair and healing. Now, treatment can begin.

Your dermatologist passes a microneedling pen over your face while the device pumps the needles up and down. This creates a clean entry and exit point for the best results. The small tip of the DermaPen can access delicate, hard-to-reach areas, such as around the nose, eyes, and lips.

Following the 20-minute procedure, another layer of serum is applied. Then, your dermatologist provides a hydrating face mask to seal everything in.

Microneedling Aftercare

You leave the office with slightly pink skin that may feel tender in places. Don’t wear makeup for the rest of the day, and avoid direct sun exposure, exfoliating scrubs, retinol, and acidic skincare products for several days following treatment. Wash your face with a mild cleanser and hydrate your skin using a gentle hydrating serum.

Dermatologists recommend multiple microneedling treatments for optimal results. These may be spaced out every one to six months, depending on what skin condition you’re hoping to treat.

Arlington Dermatology uses the DermaPen fractional microneedling device to tighten, lift, and rejuvenate the skin. Because it’s mechanical and doesn’t use heat, DermaPen is safe for all skin types and colors. To try this minimally invasive procedure for yourself, call us at 847-392-5440 to schedule an appointment.