The world of aesthetic medicine and skin care is advancing by leaps and bounds, offering us minimally invasive treatments and techniques to rejuvenate the skin, such as microneedling. This procedure, which is based on the application of microperforations in the skin, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, two key components in skin firmness and elasticity. But that’s not all. In this blog article, we explain what microneedling is, how it is applied, and what its contraindications are!
What is microneedling?
The microneedling technique is performed using a specialized device containing small needles or a pen-type device. These needles penetrate the skin, creating microchannels that trigger the body’s natural healing response.
How does microneedling work?
The punctures made in the skin by microneedling devices are performed at a controlled depth; small enough not to damage the epidermis, but deep enough to trigger tissue repair.
These micro-injuries activate collagen and elastin production, while also improving the absorption of topical products applied afterwards, increasing their effectiveness. These products are tailored to each person’s needs. In this way, countless benefits can be enjoyed, such as the reduction of wrinkles, stretch marks, scars, and pigmentation disorders.
How is microneedling applied?
This technique is usually performed in aesthetic clinics by trained professionals. However, there are also microneedling devices for home use, which make the treatment more accessible but require maximum caution on the part of the user.
- Before application, the skin must be cleaned and disinfected to prevent infection.
- Although discomfort is minimal or non-existent, in some cases an anesthetic cream may be applied for total comfort during treatment.
- The device with needles is passed over the skin in different directions, creating microperforations.
- To finish the procedure, specific products such as serums with hyaluronic acid or vitamins are usually applied to enhance the results of the treatment.
When can I have microneedling treatment?
This procedure is especially aimed at people who want to improve the firmness, tone, and texture of their skin; reduce wrinkles, expression lines, and hyperpigmentation; or reduce acne scars.
To achieve the desired results, three to five sessions are recommended, with intervals of 7 to 15 days between them.
On the other hand, although it is a treatment that can be performed at different times of the year, it creates micro-lesions that can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. For this reason, it is recommended to have it done in the fall or winter, when sun exposure is lower. This helps reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and other adverse effects related to the sun.
In addition, microneedling is most effective when the skin is not irritated, inflamed, or damaged. Therefore, it is best to avoid it if you have active acne breakouts, open wounds, or skin infections.
Therefore, the treatment can be done at any time of the year with the appropriate precautions, although fall and winter are usually the most favorable seasons. The most important thing is that the skin is in good condition and that the treatment is planned at a time when it is possible to follow all the post-treatment recommendations to protect and care for the skin properly.
What are the contraindications for microneedling treatment?
Microneedling is a versatile and effective treatment that offers numerous benefits for the skin, from rejuvenation and wrinkle reduction to the improvement of scars and blemishes. However, like any cosmetic procedure, it has certain contraindications that are worth knowing about.
This technique is not recommended in the following cases:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Herpes or open wounds
- Active acne breakouts
- Recent cosmetic procedures
- Recent or immediate sun exposure
- Allergy to any type of infiltrated substance
- Chronic skin disease
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Use of anticoagulant medications
If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or trained cosmetic professional before application. Your skin deserves only the best!