Microneedling - what to expect

You scheduled your Microneedling session – what happens before, during, & after?

Prior to your appointment, we recommend that you review the pre- and post- procedure instructions:

click here for a downloadable PDF copy.

Upon arrival, you’ll be asked to fill out some standard treatment and consent forms, and read a few disclaimers. You’ll be escorted back to our treatment room. We’ll head into the treatment room to discuss possible treatment complications, such as redness or peeling.

The medical aesthetician, with the doctor, will review your medical history, current medications, and your skin care concerns. You’ll be able to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have about the procedure. This helps ensure that Microneedling is appropriate for you.

Be sure to tell us if you’ve had a cosmetic procedure in the past, scar easily, or have ever had a keloid (a type of raised scar). It’s also important for us to know if you have recently used any topical retinoids (like Retin-A, Differin) or oral isotretinoin (like Accutane). We recommend waiting 6 months or longer after taking the last dose of oral isotretinoin and at least 5 days after stopping topical retinoids. This reduces the risk of side effects from the procedure. Patients on blood thinners are poor candidates for this procedure as well.

You’ll lie comfortably on our treatment bed, and your skin will be gently cleansed to remove oils and makeup, ensuring a more effective procedure. A numbing cream may be applied to lessen the discomfort (at no additional charge).

The procedure itself involves the use of a device called a DermaPen, a small handheld pen-like device with a sterile, disposable tip with tiny needles. Our needling pen’s multi-speed and adjustable needle depth allow needles to pierce the skin’s layer at 90 degrees and increase the absorption of products. The device slides along the skin, penetrating the upper layers of the skin to a depth of up to 2mm to create numerous tiny needle wounds.

The procedure prompts the body to respond through the creation of new collagen and elastin fibers. In response to the stimulus, the skin plumps and thickens, reducing the appearance of scars, and fine lines and wrinkles. For best results, we immediately apply a collagen stimulating product like a growth factor to the skin allowing the product to move down the micro-channels created by the device.

Most people will experience redness and mild swelling in a similar way as mild sunburn for 24-48 hours and there may be minimal pin-point bleeding and/or bruising.

Within a week or two, you’ll notice that your skin is smoother and more radiant looking but the full effects won’t be seen until a few months later.

Contact us today if you have further questions or concerns.