what is microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that’s used to treat skin concerns by creating a micro-trauma to the skin and stimulating collagen production. Also known as collagen induction therapy, this treatment may help those looking to reduce the appearance of melasma, age spots, acne scars, stretch marks, scars, and tightening loose skin.
Microneedling is a great option for those looking to achieve smoother, firmer and younger-looking skin, with very minimal post-treatment downtime. This minimally invasive procedure is more corrective than any topically applied cream or product. At Gem & Tonic, we use Human Growth Factor, Lab Grade Vegan Stem Cells, High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid, and Argyline Peptide Serum to enhance and maximize results.
You may be an ideal candidate for this procedure if you’re in good health and have certain skin concerns that haven’t responded to home treatments or other types of dermatologic procedures such as chemical peels.
Procedure for micro-needling:
First, before photos will be obtained to measure results of where we start before treatment.
Your face will be cleaned to make sure all impurities have been removed properly from the skin. Ideally the skin does not have any products at the time of coming in for the treatment.
Then, numbing cream will be applied to the skin for 30 minutes until the face is numb.
Once the face is numb, the procedure will begin by cleaning the face of the numbing cream and wiping down the face with alcohol.
Pure Lab Grade Hyaluronic acid and Stem Cells will be applied to glide the MD Pen Micro-needling Medical device across the skin in several different directions to avoid over irritating the skin. Depending on your preference, we may start at the eyelids or at the forehead depending on patient preference for comfort.
After the eyes and forehead are completed, the nose, then mouth area, then cheeks are addressed.
To finish, a cold hyaluronic mask are applied to soothe irritation and the heat sensation.
At checkout self care will be reviewed once more before leaving for home.
Downtime includes 2-3 days of downtime (staying away from the sun) and avoiding Retin A products. Ideally, make-up is avoided for three days and sunscreen is advised.
Targeted areas for micro-needling
Micro-needling is most often used on your face to target:
acne scars
age spots
fine lines and wrinkles
large pores
reduced skin elasticity
uneven skin tone
Are there any risks or side effects?
Like all cosmetic procedures, micro-needling isn’t without risk. The most common side effect is minor skin irritation and redness immediately following the procedure. You may also see redness for a few days. Call your doctor if you notice more severe side effects, such as:
bleeding
bruising
infection
peeling
You may not be an ideal candidate for micro-needling if you:
are pregnant
have certain skin diseases, such as psoriasis or eczema
have open wounds
have had radiation therapy lately
have a history of skin scars
What to expect after micro-needling
Micro-needling isn’t invasive like plastic surgery, so the recovery time is minimal. We ask that for two-three days there is no sun exposure and no Retin A use for up to 2 weeks. Synthetic products with fragrance must be avoided for the following week, and sunscreen resumed the day after treatment to protect the skin from sun damage if outdoors.
You may notice skin irritation and redness within the first few days following the procedure. This is a natural response to micro-needling, and is best cared for with an ice roller, face mask, and hyaluronic acid to take home, which is complimentary with your session.
After micro-needling, your skin works fairly quickly to rejuvenate new tissue. In theory, you should see results within a couple of weeks that are long lasting if your self care has been optimal.
Typically To maintain the results of your treatment, multiple sessions and perhaps other complementing treatments. Your doctor will advise you on the best plan of action based on your individual goals.
Preparing for micro-needling
Before the procedure, talk to your doctor about ways you can prepare so you have the best possible outcome. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as ibuprofen and those for acne treatment, well in advance of the procedure.
It is advised to avoid and stop all Retin A products a week before the session.
Micro-needling Studies:
Micro-needling: A Comprehensive Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27755171/
Safety and Effectiveness of an Automated Micro-needling Device in Improving the Signs of Aging Skin
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30214664/
Micro-needling in facial recalcitrant melasma: report of a series of 22 cases
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26734882/
Skin rejuvenation using cosmetic products containing growth factors, cytokines, and matrikines: a review of the literature
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5108505/