Microneedling, also more formally referred to as percutaneous collagen induction therapy, is a versatile skincare treatment that uses tiny needles to encourage the skin’s natural healing and regeneration. Microneedling therapy is known for its effectiveness in addressing a wide range of skin issues, including texture, tone, and overall appearance. Its ability to address a wide range of common skin concerns makes microneedling a popular choice for many people.
Microneedling works by using a device equipped with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the surface of the skin tissue. These tiny punctures stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, triggering the production of collagen and elastin, which is why the treatment is also referred to as collagen induction therapy.
As the skin heals, it becomes rejuvenated, leading to improvements in texture, firmness, and overall appearance. Microneedling can also help the skin absorb skincare and topical treatments more effectively.
Microneedling can treat a wide range of common skin conditions. It effectively reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by using the skin’s healing process to stimulate collagen production, which also helps to treat acne scars and improve uneven skin texture. Microneedling can also treat stretch marks as it helps to regenerate the skin’s surface, which also works for minimizing enlarged pores.
Microneedling can reduce the look of dark spots and uneven skin tone caused by hyperpigmentation and melasma. Microneedling can tighten and firm sagging skin by reducing skin laxity and improving overall skin elasticity. If you’re suffering from rosacea, microneedling can reduce redness and inflammation.
Microneedling is not just limited to facial treatments – it can stimulate hair growth on the scalp, potentially improving conditions like androgenic alopecia. Many people also use microneedling to smooth and flatten surgical scars and other scars on the skin, making them less noticeable.
Preparing for your first microneedling appointment involves a few key steps to ensure the best results and minimize any side effects. Start by meeting with one of our medical aestheticians to determine if microneedling is right for you. About a week before your microneedling appointment, stop using products with retinoids, acids, or other harsh ingredients that could irritate your skin. Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning during this period as well.
On the day of your microneedling appointment, make sure your face is clean and free of makeup, lotions, and oils. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water beforehand. Also, inform your medical aesthetician about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some can affect your skin’s healing process. Following these steps can help ensure you get the best results from your microneedling session.
During your microneedling appointment, you can expect a straightforward and relatively quick procedure. First, your skin will be cleansed to remove any dirt and oil. A topical numbing cream is often applied to minimize any potential discomfort, and it typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes to take effect. Once your skin is numb, a microneedling device which contains sterilized needles will be used to create tiny punctures on the surface of your skin.
The microneedling process may cause a mild tingling or prickling sensation. The treatment usually lasts around 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. After the microneedling procedure, a soothing serum or moisturizer will be applied to calm the skin. Mild redness and sensitivity are common immediately after your microneedling treatment, but these effects typically subside within a few hours to a couple of days.
After your microneedling treatment, it’s important to follow post-care instructions to promote skin healing and maximize the effects of your results. For the first 24 to 48 hours after microneedling, avoid using makeup, and harsh skincare products containing retinoids, acids, or alcohol.
Stick to a gentle cleanser and a hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin clean and moisturized. It’s also important to stay out of the sun after microneedling. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when going outside, since your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays.
Avoid strenuous activities that cause sweating, as this can irritate your skin. Make sure you refrain from picking or scratching at your skin after microneedling to prevent infections and scarring. Hydrate well by drinking plenty of water, and follow any additional guidance provided by our medical aestheticians to ensure a smooth healing process and the best possible results.
Microneedling with the DP4 pen is a popular method known for its precision and ability to treat a variety of skin issues, including uneven skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and enlarged pores. The DP4 microneedling pen is an FDA-approved device that uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. This technique is effective for improving skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.
The procedure is relatively quick, typically taking around 30 minutes, and involves minimal downtime. Patients may experience mild redness and sensitivity post-treatment, but these effects usually subside within a couple of days. DP4 Pen microneedling is suitable for most skin types and can be customized to address specific concerns, making it a versatile option for those seeking overall skin rejuvenation.
Prolift Dual RF microneedling combines traditional microneedling with the added benefits of radiofrequency energy. This innovative treatment not only creates micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production but also delivers radiofrequency energy deep into the skin. The heat generated by the RF energy enhances collagen remodeling and tightening, making it especially effective for treating sagging or aging skin, deeper wrinkles, and more pronounced acne scarring.
The dual-action of microneedling and RF energy promotes more significant skin tightening and lifting effects compared to standard microneedling. The treatment usually requires slightly longer downtime, with redness and swelling lasting a few days, but the results are often more dramatic and long-lasting. Prolift Dual RF Microneedling is ideal for individuals looking to address more severe signs of aging and achieve firmer, tighter skin.
Most people experience minimal discomfort during microneedling. A topical numbing cream is applied before the microneedling procedure to help reduce any pain or discomfort. You may feel a slight tingling or prickling sensation while the microneedling device creates tiny holes in the skin’s surface during the treatment, but it is not painful.
The number of microneedling sessions needed varies depending on your unique skin concerns and desired results. Generally, a series of multiple microneedling sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart is recommended for best results. For most people, 3 to 6 sessions is recommended to allow enough time for new collagen to rejuvenate the skin. We can provide a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and unique skin condition.
Yes, microneedling can be combined with other treatments such as chemical peels, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy, and topical serums to enhance results. Combining treatments should be done by consulting with one of our medical aestheticians to ensure the safety and effectiveness of each treatment.
Initial improvements in skin texture and tone can be seen as soon as within a week after microneedling, but more significant microneedling results like a reduction in fine lines and surgical scars require more collagen production and typically become noticeable after several weeks. The skin continues to improve over the next 3 to 6 months as your body’s new collagen production increases.
While microneedling is most commonly done on the face, it can also be performed on various parts of the body, including the neck, décolletage, and hands. Microneedling is an effective treatment used to treat acne scars, stretch marks, enlarged pores and other skin concerns in these areas. Microneedling can also be done on the scalp to help encourage hair growth for those suffering from hair loss or hair thinning.
It is a common myth that microneedling can’t be done on darker skin tones as it may cause hyperpigmentation. The truth is, when performed correctly microneedling can be safe and effective on all skin tones. For darker skin tones, it’s important to use appropriate needle lengths and avoid overly aggressive treatments to minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Choosing a skilled microneedling practitioner who has experience with diverse skin types ensures that the procedure is tailored to your specific needs. Post-treatment care is equally important for people with darker skin. Using gentle, hydrating products and avoiding sun exposure can further reduce the risk of pigmentation issues and support optimal results for both people with darker skin and all skin tones.
The best time of year for microneedling is usually the cooler months in fall and winter, due to lower sun exposure and a better environment for skin recovery. In the fall and winter there is less risk of sun damage, which is important since microneedling makes the skin more sensitive and prone to hyperpigmentation from UV exposure.
Although fall and winter have ideal conditions for microneedling, the treatment is safe and effective year-round with proper precautions. With a skilled practitioner and proper post-treatment care like consistent sun protection and gentle skincare, microneedling can produce amazing results in any season!
It’s important to have microneedling performed by a licensed professional that uses certified equipment with sterilized needles for the treatment. Improper microneedling can lead to potential risks such as skin infections, scarring, and worsening of pigmentation issues, especially if the procedure is performed with unsterilized equipment or by an inexperienced practitioner.
Because the treatment is done by creating controlled microscopic punctures, when done improperly, it can lead to negative results like scarring, skin irritation or infection. Whether you’re looking to treat skin conditions like post acne scarring, dark spots or hair loss, having the collagen induction therapy done at a certified medical aesthetics clinic or dermatologist’s office is key to the success of the procedure.
Choosing the right microneedling service provider is key for ensuring both safety and effectiveness. Always make sure to verify the clinic’s credentials and experience before your treatment and choose a certified skincare professional with a proven track record in performing microneedling. It’s a good idea to do more research to review before-and-after photos of previous microneedling clients and check for patient testimonials to gauge their expertise and results.
During your consultation, share details about each skin concern you wish to treat with microneedling therapy and ensure the provider is knowledgeable about various skin types and conditions. It’s important to ask what equipment and techniques they use, as well as their protocols for maintaining a sterile environment to prevent infections. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safe and successful microneedling experience.
Get a radiant complexion with a more youthful appearance with microneedling treatments at our Ottawa skin clinic. Our experienced team specializes in working with diverse skin types and tones, ensuring safe and effective results for all clients.
We use only FDA-approved microneedling devices and experienced hands for our microneedling procedures to protect our clients’ safety and give them the beautiful desired results they’re dreaming of! Whether you’re looking to boost your overall skin health or target specific concerns, microneedling is a great choice of cosmetic procedure. Book a microneedling appointment at You Derma today!
You Derma is a Medical Aesthetics Clinic offering laser hair removal, facial treatments, laser treatments, and cosmetic injectables in Ottawa.
Visit Our Medical Aesthetics Clinic in Manor Park
435 St. Laurent Blvd Suite 204
Ottawa, ON K1K 2Z8
(613) 741-0073