The skin makes up the most significant part of your body, and for this reason, it is only essential for it to be in the best state. Skincare regimes like cleansing, moisturizing, and toning can be helpful for maintenance purposes. However, they do not eliminate imperfections such as skin laxity, large pores, acne, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks. Such issues usually alter your appearance and sometimes make you self-conscious. Fortunately, your trusted Houston Skin Shop MedSpa offers microneedling to help you achieve younger-looking and flawless skin.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling or collagen induction therapy is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that causes micro-injuries on your skin’s outer layer. As a natural response, the skin makes more collagen-rich tissue and elastin, promoting healing and making your skin firmer. The new skin that grows back is usually brighter and has an even tone and texture. Microneedling is primarily a facial procedure, but specialists sometimes use this procedure on other body parts such as the thighs and abdominal area.
How to prepare for microneedling
Consulting with your doctor should be the first step before scheduling treatment. A discussion with your specialist will help you understand whether the procedure is correct for you. For example, people with deep wrinkles may not benefit from this procedure because it works best with mild to moderate skin laxity. Here is also when you get to know the pre-procedural instructions, which facilitate better results and lesser side effects.
For example, your doctor may ask you to stop taking medications such as ibuprofen since that may cause excessive bleeding during the procedure. You may also need to stop using any topical retinoids since this may cause undesirable side effects. Although microneedling is generally a safe procedure, specialists advise against it if:
- You have skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
- You are pregnant
- You scar easily
- You have had radiation therapy recently
- You have an open wound
What to expect during the procedure
An hour before the procedure, your doctor uses topical anesthesia to desensitize a specific part of your skin. The doctor rolls over a pen-like tool with tiny sharp needles on your skin surface to cause minor pricks. Your specialist applies serum on the treated area to reduce skin tenderness after microneedling. The entire process usually takes half an hour, but this may take longer depending on the skin’s surface area needing treatment.
There may be some redness and slight irritation immediately after the procedure, but this usually improves over time. You can resume routine activities on the same day if you are comfortable.
What are the risks of microneedling?
Like most cosmetic procedures, microneedling is associated with several risks, but this procedure hardly results in serious complications. Side effects such as skin tenderness, redness, and swelling are expected for several hours after treatment. The good news is that they tend to fade away and do not require medication most of the time. Since the procedure involves skin pricking, the cuts are possible entry points for bacteria that can cause an infection. Notify your doctor if you experience other side effects, such as peeling and bruising.
If you need to get rid of skin blemishes, book an appointment with your specialist today at Skin Shop MedSpa for microneedling to improve your appearance.
